PAUL Bowyer believes 1874 Northwich have started what he describes as a critical run of matches in the perfect way.

A 5-0 win against Maine Road on Saturday was their ninth in succession, setting a new club record.

However the co-manager believes the context, with two more Premier Division fixtures to follow before the year’s end, is just as important.

“We really put them to the sword,” he said afterwards.

“I felt we dominated from start to finish, and I don’t think they could have complained if we’d scored one or two more goals.

“It was so important for us to play after more than a fortnight without a game; we needed to rediscover a bit of rhythm, and that’s not always easy after a pause like we’ve had.

“We weren’t quite as sharp as we’d like to have been, and looked rusty at times. But that’s only because the lads were trying to do things they’ve been used to.”

Scott McGowan’s penalty set 1874 on a course for victory before midfield duo Mark Jones and Jake Parker netted either side of the interval.

Taylor Kennerley’s impressive brace completed a comfortable victory against opponents that rarely threatened the hosts’ defence.

Bowyer added: “We scored some good goals, and we look a threat in open play and from set-pieces.

“We’ve had games earlier this season where we’ve scraped it by the odd goal despite creating chances, and so we’ve happy to have been a bit more ruthless.

“We’ll continue to encourage these players to impose themselves on whoever we’re playing.

“There are goals in this side, it’s not built solely to rely on somebody like Scott McGowan to score, and it’s a real plus to have shown that [against Maine Road].”

1874 play next against landlords Winsford United on Boxing Day.