Staying power for Phil

The Dolly Blues are currently three points clear at the summit of the NPL First Division North with two games in hand on second-placed Ossett Town.

Brown now wants his squad to show they have got what it takes to lift the title come April with their next test coming at Scarborough Athletic, fifth in the table, on Saturday.

“We’ve got ourselves into a decent position,” said the City manager.

“Now I want to try and turn leaders into winners.

“My focus has got to be instilling the belief that our current league position can be our final one.

“It’s obviously not the final run-in yet, there’s a long way to go, 19 games I think.

“We’re going to be have to be tough mentally to see it through.”

The Blues boss has moved to ready his side for a title tilt by bringing experienced defender Glenn Steel back to the club from Lancashire rivals Bamber Bridge.

The 33-year-old enjoyed a successful spell at Giant Axe, having previously won a league title with AFC Fylde and played for Kendal Town.

The centre-half joined Brig in 2014, having first started out at the Sir Tom Finney Stadium but could now play a key role in City’s promotion push in the second half of the season.

“He’s a good addition for us,” said Brown.

“Glenn is tried and tested at this level and higher and I’m really pleased he’s joined us.

“He brings experience and quality, he’s a good player and I’m really looking forward to him joining up with us.

“He’s a winner and that’s what we need in the changing room right now. He’s been a captain wherever he’s been which tells you a lot about him.”

Brown believes his side’s draw at Goole last time out is the perfect preparation for Saturday’s trip to Scarborough.

The NPL First Division North leaders were held 1-1 by second from bottom Goole as they missed a chance to extend their lead at the top.

The game was a real battle in East Yorkshire, with Brown expecting more of the same this weekend.

“They’ve played more games than anybody else which has kept them up there,” he said.

“The old adage about having points of the board has proved to be right.

“It’s another long journey and a difficult place to go.

“If anything, last weekend was perfect preparation for this weekend.

“It was tough and I don’t see the trip to Scarborough being any different.”