MARK Collier’s Chippenham Town side continue to soar at the top of the Southern League Premier Division following Saturday’s 2-0 win over Redditch United.

The Bluebirds took the lead inside 10 minutes when David Pratt battled for the ball with the opposing goalkeeper, which ricocheted back out to Joe McClennan to fire home his first goal since returning to the club.

The visitors were in the ascendency and got their second before the break to kill off the game as a contest when a set-piece has bobbled around in the box and Will Richards drove the ball into the bottom corner with his left foot.

Chippenham saw the game out in a professional manner to take all three points and maintain their position at the summit to the delight of Collier.

“The scoreline was quite comfortable, they didn’t really create too much,” he said.

“They created a couple of little chances in the first half and after we have taken a two-goal lead.

“It wasn’t the most comprehensive performance by us, obviously it was a different pitch than we’re used to.

“They are not in great form and tried to sit behind the ball and catch us on the counter, I didn’t think they thought they could beat us.

“We were resolute in defence and we always looked like we could score a third if we needed to.

“I thought we were a little bit below par and a little bit scruffy in possession but at this time of the year, it’s about winning football matches and we have shown we can do that.

“It’s three more points to add to our growing total.

“Our last five games, we’ve won five on the spin, scored 11 and conceded one; that is a good basis to go and win football matches, with the firepower we have got.”

Richards will be assessed before Tuesday night’s game with Chesham United as the 3G pitch took its toll on a knee injury, while Alex Ferguson was substituted with a tight hamstring.

However, Rhys Baggridge has now served his three-match ban to provide further defensive options ahead of the tie at Hardenhuish Park.

“There is pressure on us because at the top, the pressure builds,” added Collier.

“We’ve been in the top five all season and that’s where we want to remain.

“I want the players to enjoy it because it is a lot more fun at the top than the bottom.

“There’s a lot more twists and turns yet and it’s how we recover from that.

“In the meantime, we’re going to enjoy it and prepare properly for Tuesday night.”