CONSISTENCY is the key to Town’s top form.

So says manager Terry Murphy after his side held champions Styal in a 1-1 draw at the weekend.

“We could have won it,” he said.

“It was a good, hard game but I felt we created more chances than they did.”

Gary Bryning put the Witches ahead from the penalty spot after Jonny Edwards was hauled down in the area, only for Styal to level after the break.

Mike Brandon, on as a substitute, missed a gilt-edged chance to pinch the winner.

“I was pleased with our commitment and effort,” said Murphy.

“Everybody played their part and finally I can see a consistency to the way we are performing at the moment.”

Five wins in seven matches has taken Murphy’s men to within two points of top spot – a run put together without last season’s top scorer Brandon finding the net.

His return to form could leave Town’s rivals flailing.

“That’s what I’m hoping,” added Murphy.

“It’s just not happening for Mike at the moment and he’s not being helped by a niggling problem with his hamstring.

“He needs a goal but I’m sure one isn’t far away.”

Neighbours Middlewich host newboys Billinge at Seddon Street on Saturday before heading to neighbours and holders Winsford in the Mid Cheshire FA Senior Cup next Tuesday, October 21.

It’s a tussle Murphy is looking forward to.

“We’ve got a good recent record against them,” he said.

“I like to use these games as a measure to how far away we are to being a useful North West Counties League side, so we’ll be out to cause an upset.”

He is still missing midfield enforcer Craig Stevens, but Ryan Broadhead should return in time to face Blues.

Shaun Came (back) is Murphy’s only other injury doubt.