CALUM MCINTYRE says any criticism should head in his direction when things don’t quite click for Chester on the pitch.

The Blues are in the mix for the National League North play-offs, however consistency has been an issue for Chester, who play host to league leaders Chorley tomorrow.

Boss McIntyre has been disappointed with his 10th-placed side’s showings away from home, although he is pleased with how the Blues have done at home.

Following last week’s 1-0 loss to Gainsborough Trinity in the FA Trophy, McIntyre told Chester FC TV: “Look, there’s a big cloud around the place... and I’ve said it, I can’t be hypocritical, because I said in the pre-season period, I want to be the punchbag.

“When players don’t play well, criticise the manager, hammer the manager.

“Whatever it is, whether get personal, whatever. I’ve become tougher at that stuff.

“There’s always going to be that when we lose a game.

“The bit that I sort of look at us at the minute and go, we’ve been fine at home... two bad results that are really, really disappointing.

“But it’s that close. If we’d have got them points, we’re right in amongst it.”

Chester were looking for a positive midweek outcome, but snow meant their scheduled trip to Leamington was postponed.

Meanwhile, Chester are to appeal the red card issued to Jack Bainbridge in their FA Trophy defeat.

Bainbridge was given his marching orders late on in the contest, when the scoreline was still goalless.

In a post on X, the club said: “Chester FC can confirm that we have appealed Jack Bainbridge’s red card from Saturday’s game on the grounds of wrongful dismissal and excessive punishment.”

Kidderminster Harriers, who are second in the standings and just a point behind the pace being set by Chorley, will head to Scarborough Athletic tomorrow, while third-placed Curzon Ashton entertain Radcliffe.

Scunthorpe United, who are still in the midst of a competitive title chase, are on their travels to Leamington.

Other fixtures: Alfreton v Brackley; Buxton v Oxford City; Darlington v Hereford; King’s Lynn v Southport; Marine v Needham Market; Peterborough Sports v Spennymoor; Rushall v Warrington; South Shields v Farsley.