CALUM MCINTYRE is delighted with Chester’s points haul following the opening third of the National League North campaign.

The Blues are eighth in the rankings after securing 28 points from their opening 17 league contests.

A ninth win of the campaign at home to Oxford City tonight could push Chester up into the play-off places.

Reflecting on his side’s run up to now, manager McIntyre told Chester FC TV: “The main thing that I’ve got to do is congratulate the players on the best start to a season in my time here, to have the most points after the same amount of games.

“To be five points or so from the top of the pile. We’re having a really decent campaign in the league.

“That can become cloudy during a period where you have so many cup games.

“Naturally, when you go out of two cup competitions, that cloud can feel a little bit bigger and a little bit darker, but we’re really happy with where we are.

“I’ve seen that in the players and to see that sort of points return from the opening 17 games, delighted for them and really, really pleased what they’ve offered.”

Chester go into tonight’s clash on the back of Saturday’s 2-1 triumph against then league leaders Chorley.

Tom Peers and Harrison Burke shared the goals as the Blues deservedly came out on top at the Deva Stadium.

“We need to back up the result on Tuesday night,” added McIntyre. “Otherwise, what was it for?

“What was all the exertion and seeing the game out late on (for), to have that much control, to then let yourself down at the next hurdle.

“But, it’s a much-improved Oxford side that may not have started how they wanted, but we’re in a really good position.

“We have a chance to put ourselves in a really, really good position.”

Tonight’s other fixtures: Alfreton v South Shields; Curzon Ashton v Southport; Darlington v Scunthorpe; Farsley v Chorley; King’s Lynn v Kidderminster; Leamington v Needham Market; Marine v Spennymoor; Peterborough Sports v Radcliffe; Rushall v Brackley; Scarborough v Warrington.