Toolstation NCEL Division One
Nostell Miners Welfare manager Terry Bates
Terry Bates insists that struggling Nostell Miners Welfare will fight to the bitter end in their battle to pull off the great escape.
Bates, who is leading Nostell’s third management team of the season, is picking up the pieces of a disastrous campaign – one that has seen them win only twice in the league.
He has overseen draws against Worsbrough Bridge and Knaresborough Town during his opening five matches in charge, but the odds of dramatic escape are stacked against Nostell as the club are nine points adrift of safety with 12 games remaining.
That said, there is still plenty of belief at the Crofton Community Centre.
“I think we’re onto our third squad, but I’m really pleased with it,” Bates told Non League Yorkshire.
“It is a youthful side, but they are not letting us down. We are still looking for experienced players though.
“We missed Gary Hibbert at the back on Saturday against Worsbrough. He’s a machine at the back for us.
“We’re not giving up on trying to stay up. The fight’s there. The spirit’s there. The camp is good. We’re going go for it.
“We’ve been in charge for five games. We’ve played Emley twice and they’re top of the league. We have played Penistone once, they’re second. It hasn’t been the easiest of starts, but we have picked up a couple of points with a new team.
“We’re quite pleased with how we have been doing in the last few weeks. It just showed against Worsbrough when they scored in the 93rd minute to equalise that when you’re at the bottom lady luck doesn’t pay you a visit.”
Nostell visit Teversal tomorrow.