Fylde's style brings risks admits manager Challinor

Dave Challinor admits the open and expansive way AFC Fylde like to play means they will concede more goals then they'd like to.
Dave ChallinorDave Challinor
Dave Challinor
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Scoring goals has never been a problem for Challinor’s men, who lead the scoring charts with 71 from 38 games.

However, they have conceded 49 – a record worse than all seven sides ahead of them in the National League.

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“We always accept that the way we play means we will be quite expansive,” Challinor said. “The games being open does suit us. As a result of that, we’re going to potentially have goals scored against us.

“I suppose that’s entertaining for the neutral but defensively we have been solid.

“Even on Saturday, there wasn’t a great deal we could do with their lad smashing the ball into the top corner from 30 yards. I’m not going to start pointing the finger – everyone is responsible.”

Fylde will have to do without the suspended Sam Finley for today’s game as well as Zaine Francis-Angol, who is on international duty with Antigua and Barbuda and won his 19th cap in Thursday’s 3-2 friendly win over Bermuda.

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“We’re forced into making a few changes,” Challinor added. I suppose it’s never ideal timing to have to make so many changes through factors that aren’t down to form.

“But it’s part and parcel of football and we’re fortunate we have such a strong squad and plenty of options.”

Challinor hinted that latest recruit Jake Lawlor, signed on loan from Guiseley, could remain at the club beyond the end of the season.

He added: “It is something that could be of interest in the longer term. He could be a really important player for us between now and May. Someone who can cover different positions is massively important. I see him as a centre-half that is comfortable on the ball and can bring it forward.”