CHORLEY extended their lead at the National League North summit to seven points with a comfortable 3-0 home win over struggling Guiseley.

The Lions remain fifth from bottom and Tuesday’s home game against Hereford takes on greater significance as the Bulls are now just three points behind.

Chorley looked like champions in waiting as they cruised to victory at Victory Park at the expense of a visiting side who have picked up just two points from a possible 12 since their win at Bradford (Park Avenue) on New Year’s Day.

It was a former Guiseley man who put the Magpies in front – Josh Wilson giving the home side a tenth minute lead with a fine volley from the edge of the box.

Marcus Carver, making his 150th appearance for the Magpies, almost made it 2-0 in the 18th minute but his shot flew just wide.

The Lions recovered from that torrid early spell and created chances of their own but they had keeper Marcus Dewhurst to thank for reaching the break just one goal down.

Guiseley were left with a mountain to climb a minute after the interval, however, when Adam Blakeman collected a good through ball and stroked a low shot past Dewhurst.

Alex Newby hit the Magpies’ third just after the hour mark when he lashed in a superb shot from outside the area.

Dewhurst – England Under-18s' current keeper on loan at Guiseley from Championship outfit Sheffield United – showed his potential with some more good saves during the final 15 minutes.

Lions’ joint manager Marcus Bignot pulled no punches in his post match interview.

He said: “It was a very tough game against the top of the table outfit. They are there for a reason and are certainly the best side we’ve played this season.

“If anyone asked my opinion I would say put a few bob on them to see it through and go on to win it.

“We came in at half-time, spoke about the first period and the positive was that it was only 1-0 and we were still in it. But to concede that second goal so early on in the second half was a blow.

“They have shown their quality today but Chorley have been at this for quite a few years now, trying to get promoted from this league and it takes time. There is a certain standard you have to reach and certain qualities you need.

“If we can learn from this defeat we will be better for it.”