SIMON RUSK has had his ups and downs since taking his first steps in management but Stockport remain on course for a play-off spot heading into the run-in.

After surprising parting company with long serving Jim Gannon with County fourth in the National League, Brighton under-23 coach Rusk was appointed as their new boss on January 27.

Although Rusk, who has not managed at senior level but had two spells as first-team coach at the Seagulls under Chris Hughton, celebrated a 4-1 win over Woking in his first game in charge, Stockport then only won two of their next eight games.

However, Monday's goalless draw against Bromley at Edgeley Park extended the unbeaten run to seven games and keeps County fourth in the table.

Despite failing to pick up three points to close the gap on the top-three, Rusk believes Stockport are heading in the right direction with 11 games to go.

"Obviously we are disappointed but we are seven unbeaten and lots of positives to take," said Rusk.

"Pleased with a clean sheet, disappointed we have not got three points over the line but you have got to take the positives and move forward."

Former Boston and Crawley midfielder Rusk has gone from under 23s boss to first team manager and he is taking the transition in his stride.

Rusk told The Argus: “In essence the process is the same.

“I felt I had good experience of helping a team develop both collectively and individually and still having to win games of football.

“A first team manager’s job is more intense in terms of the immediate spotlight on your results.

“But that’s something I’m no stranger to in my playing career.

“It changes in that the results are ultimately your priority but the process by which you achieve those results are not too dissimilar.

“The big thing would be the volume of games.

“With 23s football you have small periods where you have a cluster of fixtures.

“That Saturday, Tuesday intensity, which I was used to as a player, I’m now getting used to again.”

Expectations are high at Edgeley Park and Rusk, who appointed Mark McGhee and Dave Conlon as assistant managers, is excited by the challenge of trying to lead Stockport back into the Football League.

“It’s an honour and a privilege to be the manager of such a great football club," said Rusk.

"Stockport County has rich tradition and an incredibly loyal fanbase, I’m looking to continue the great work that’s been done and can reassure fans I will devote everything to the role.

“We have a fantastic squad with great infrastructure and can’t wait to start working with the players. Stockport County need to be back in the EFL and I believe together with Mark and Dave we can steer the Club to success.” `

Stockport, who face Wrexham at The Racecourse tomorrow, might have to settle for a play-off spot when it comes to getting out of the fifth tier.

County are 11 points behind leaders Sutton United and nine adrift of second placed Hartlepool who have played three games more than Rusk's men.

But while automatic promotion might be out of reach, there is still work to be done to ensure that Stockport secure a top-seven finish.

Only five points separate County and Wrexham, the side immediately outside the play-offs, and the gap between the teams will be closer if Dean Keates' side can bounce back from two consecutive defeats over Easter by clinching victory tomorrow.