Chester FC manager Calum McIntyre has expressed immense pride in his players despite a heartbreaking 2-1 extra-time defeat to Scunthorpe United in the National League North promotion final. McIntyre reflected on the narrow loss – which saw Chester’s promotion hopes dashed as Scunthorpe celebrated at Glanford Park – by praising his squad’s effort and character, even as he admitted the result was a bitter disappointment.
A crowd of more than 9,000 packed into Glanford Park to witness the dramatic clash. It was a fiercely contested final that showcased the best of non-league football, filled with intensity, late drama and a deep emotional toll. For those seeking a way to unwind from the rollercoaster of the season, websites like www.nettcasino.com – which compare top online casino offers – provide a different kind of thrill, though McIntyre and his players have their eyes firmly fixed on redemption.
Pride in Performance
Chester finished fourth in the league and had overcome Buxton and Kidderminster Harriers in the play-offs to reach the final. McIntyre lauded his team’s campaign, saying, “I can’t ask for any more from the group of players… I’m just so proud of them”. He highlighted how “they have been absolutely exceptional to work with” and acknowledged being “so disappointed that we came out on the wrong side of the result in the final.
Despite the agony of seeing his players watch Scunthorpe lift the trophy, the Chester boss emphasised the positive strides made by his young squad. McIntyre noted that Chester “went toe-to-toe with some big clubs” during their promotion push – a testament, he said, to the quality of his players.
“We’ve had a right go for 49 games and we gave it everything,” he added, underscoring the commitment shown by the group over a long season. The tone of the interview was one of pride amid heartbreak; McIntyre was visibly emotional yet determined to stress how far his side had come.
Fine Margins in Defeat
In analyzing the final, McIntyre pinpointed moments that could have swung the game in Chester’s favour. He believed his side were “absolutely tremendous in the second half” and at one stage “looked like [they] were going to win the game”. However, he admitted that his team failed to capitalize on some promising situations – “We had some moments to create chances and maybe [we’ve] not done the right thing” – and lamented that “in big games, those fine margins come out on the wrong side”
Ultimately, McIntyre felt Chester “didn’t have enough physically and that is probably the difference between the two sides” in extra time, as Scunthorpe’s fresher legs and depth proved decisive.
Looking Ahead
Despite the devastating loss, McIntyre insists that the campaign’s overall progress bodes well for the future. He noted that Chester have “made big strides this season” and believes the experience of this promotion near-miss will make his squad “even stronger as a unit” going forward.For the manager and his players, attention will soon turn to rebuilding and preparing for another promotion challenge next term. McIntyre’s focus remains firmly on football. He is determined to channel Chester’s heartache into motivation for another promotion push next term.