THE Chester City Supporters Trust has issued a rallying call to the fans to get behind the club in the battle against relegation.

Official Richard Lynes wants supporters to put their opinions of the management team aside in favour of backing the players as City bid avoid a quick return to the Conference.

He said: 'Without doubt we find ourselves in worrying times. A poor run of results over the last three or four months has left us sitting in 21st position in the league and only six points from the danger zone.

'All this despite major investment from the chairman at the beginning of the season in a 20-man squad thought fit to challenge at the other end of the table, together with considerable further investment throughout the season to strengthen where necessary.'

He went on: 'In my capacity as the Chester City Supporters' Trust representative on the board, I have been able to work very closely with the chairman and fellow directors during a very difficult year. I have been privy to all aspects of the running of the club and in particular how the dwindling numbers coming through the turnstiles is a major issue.

'For example, the net receipts from the Southend game, with an attendance of 2,396, after expenses and accounting for season ticket holders, was just £11,000 - this with nearly four hundred away fans.

'With an average of two-and-a-half home games a month, the maths just don't work. Once again this club is relying hugely on Stephen Vaughan to carry a monthly shortfall of around £50,000 as well as giving personal guarantees to the Inland Revenue to honour the outstanding commitment to them, totalling some £200,000.

'I feel very strongly that now is the time for the Trust to take the lead and call on all Chester City fans far and wide to come to the Saunders Honda Stadium on Saturday and for the remainder of the season and make your support count, regardless of whether you approve or disapprove of the management team and our style of play at times.

'We have nine games to go and, more than anything, the players need to know that like at so many other grounds in the country, they can count on us to make the difference and truly get behind them. The sides below us are picking up points and, disturbingly, we are not.

'We have to act, and act now. Stephen Vaughan has delivered for us in rescuing us from the brink of oblivion, delivering our first ever championship and with it our rightful place in the Football League.

'To go back the other way is unthinkable, so is the risk of the chairman losing patience, commitment and interest. So I appeal to all fans, young and old alike, to rally round and make the difference. Your club needs you.'