Chester FC: Graham Barrow delivers his verdict on Blues v Chorley showdown

Feb 17 2011 Chester Chronicle

GRAHAM Barrow reckons Saturday’s clash between his beloved Blues and his hometown team is just too close to call.

The 56-year-old, born and bred in Chorley, is still revered by Chester fans who remember the success he enjoyed with their club as both a player and manager.

He will be taking a keen interest in this weekend’s contest at Victory Park – but, diplomatically, is refusing to pick a winner.

Barrow, who began his playing career with Chorley, said: “It should be exciting, the way both teams have been playing. Chester will be happy not to get beat. I think it will be tight and there will be one goal in it – although I couldn’t say which way it will go.”

Barrow, now first-team coach with Premier League outfit Wigan Athletic, reckons Chester will be more used to the ‘big game’ atmosphere than Chorley.

“It’s a while since we saw that sort of crowd at Chorley,” said the former midfield enforcer, a stalwart of Harry McNally’s Chester teams from the 1980s and early 90s.

“Chester will be more used to this situation. They have been getting good crowds, about 2,000, at most home games this season. It will be like a cup tie.”

Barrow, who brought a young Wigan side to Chester for a pre-season friendly last summer, is full of admiration for the work Blues fans have done in reviving the club

“They have had a tough time,” he said. “But the proof is in the league table and they’re doing fantastic. It’s a credit to their supporters and shows that no matter what level you play at, the basis of support will always be there.”