NIALL MCGUINNESS isn’t surprised to see Penrhyncoch fighting it out at the top end of the table.

And the Flint Town United boss knows his side will have to be at their best to inflict only a fourth defeat in 12 outings on Gari Lewis’ Roosters.

Penrhyncoch are just two places and three points behind Flint, in third, and McGuinness said: “I’m not surprised that they are up near the top of the table.

“We can cope with the physicality of most teams in this league, but they are certainly up there in that respect, and they are resilient and they sit in looking to catch you on the counter.

“We know we need to compete and stand up to what they have to throw at us.”

Penrhyncoch have the joint-best defensive record in the second-tier alongside leaders Prestatyn, and McGuinness knows finding a way past the visitors’ resolute backline is crucial.

“Gari has played the game,” said McGuinness. “He knows how to organise his team, he knows the tricks of defending and Penrhyncoch are streetwise.

“We had close games against them last season, so we know how tough a challenge it will be this season.”

Flint go into the contest on the back of back-to-back league victories and McGuinness is confident that his players will rise to the occasion.

“The lads should have the bit between their teeth,” added McGuinness. “Fingers crossed they can go out there and do a job.”

Chris Chung-Li is available for Flint, who have a doubt over Andy Brown after the attacker played through the pain barrier in Tuesday night’s League Cup defeat to Connah’s Quay Nomads.

Victory for Flint will see them climb back into second place with Craig Hogg’s Colwyn Bay without a match this weekend.

The Seagulls replaced the Silkmen in second spot on Tuesday courtesy of a 3-2 win at Bangor City, who will be looking to bounce back with a home win against Guilsfield tomorrow.

Leaders Prestatyn, seven points clear at the summit, play host to Llanrhaeadr.