STANLEY chairman Eric Whalley is still pinching himself that his dreams are so close to a reality.

Local businessman Whalley has been chairman at Stanley for 10 years and has made no secret of his desire to see his side back in the Football League.

"When we came into the Conference three years ago I said we wanted to be in the league in five years time so we are ahead of schedule," joked the chairman.

"But I still can't believe it - we are one win away or two draws from the Football League. it is down to us now.

"I still feel stressed though and just want it to be over. We went top in November and then we built up a gap but it has been difficult and it has got worse and worse watching the games!

"But hopefully we will do it tomorrow (Sat) and when we do, I guess it will be very emotional.

"I have been chairman for 10 years and it has been well documented about my ambitions and this is my dream."

The chairman has been impressed with the squad that can make Stanley history 44 years since they resigned from the league.

"I think the team spirit has been the key this season," said the chairman. "They have all bonded so well and there has been a good comradeship between the lads. And I bet we must be one of the clubs on the smallest budgets ever to win the Conference. We only have a small squad and John Coleman has worked wonders.

"Hopefully we will do it tomorrow and then there will be a good crowd at home on Monday.

"It would have been nice for the Conference trophy to be presented on Monday if, hopefully, we have won it but anytime will do!"