Boss Reynolds has big plans for Brig

Former skipper Matty Kay has been back training with Bamber Bridge in recent weeks

The Brig boss admits he has cast envious glances at the way near neighbours AFC Fylde and Chorley – albeit with larger financial resources – have risen up the football pyramid in recent years.

It was not that long ago when the Magpies and the Coasters used to arrive at the Sir Tom Finney Stadium on an equal footing to Brig.

They have since won two promotions and are both fighting it out at the top end of the National League North this season.

Despite reaching two play-off finals in recent times, Brig still find themselves stuck in the NPL First Division North.

However, Reynolds has big plans for the club – both on and off the pitch – and sees no reason why the club cannot be where Chorley and Fylde are now in the not-too-distant  future.

“I have a vision for Bamber Bridge to be the best non-league club around here,” he said. “I am jealous of where Fylde and Chorley are now.

“I am jealous when I look up at the table and see Lancaster City at the top and see Clitheroe in the play-off positions because I wish it was us.

“But it’s my aim to take us there. With the facilities this club has – anyone who has played here will tell you– it is set up for National League North.”

Reynolds admits the club will need a greater financial input, but added: “More than the money, it’s about having a vision. AFC Fylde had a vision that by 2022, they were going to be in the Football League,” he added.

“Everybody thought it was pie in the sky, but if Dave Challinor takes them up this year which looks likely, they are going to be one step away and well ahead of schedule.

“Money does play a part, but I have been really impressed with the way our board has gone about its business. There is more stability and if we can push our gates up from 300 to 500 it will make a massive difference to our budget.”

Brig host Ossett Town this weekend, which kicks-off a challenging run-in for Reynolds’ men. Out of their final 10 league games , only two of the teams they face are currently below them in the table. Reynolds said: “They are fourth in the league, but if we play like we know we can, we can win.” Chris Marlow has returned to training but won’t be considered tomorrow. Ex-players Matty Kay and Greg Johnstone have been training with the club with a view to re-signing