CHESTER head coach Jan Van Deventer is refusing to get carried away with his side's rich vein of form.

A sequence of eight wins from 10 games has lifted the club to second in the Division Two North standings and within four points of leaders Hull Ionians.

Last weekend's 33-22 defeat of Tynedale represented a third successive league victory for the Hare Lane club ahead of tomorrow's home clash with

Wharfedale.

And with Chester now emerging as serious title contenders, Van Deventer has moved quickly to temper expectations.

He said: "I'm exceptionally pleased with how we're playing at the moment and the league position we've got ourselves into.

"It's a credit to the players' hard work, their commitment and performance levels that we've got ourselves here.

"But then we also know that it's a long old season and that there could be a dip in our form at some point.

"Other factors coming into play like injuries could also affect us, plus the fact that this division is so unpredictable.

"As a squad we know that any team in this division is capable of beating another.

"That's a cliche, bit it's also true as we when we turned over by a Peterborough side who were struggling badly at that time.

"So nobody's talking about league titles or looking too far ahead just yet.

"It's a good start we've made to the season and one we need to continue to build on."

Tomorrow's visitors have gained some momentum in the league, with three successive league wins aiding their recovery from a poor start.

And with this season's proud unbeaten home record to preserve, Van Deventer says his side will be focused on a five-point haul tomorrow.

He added: "Our home form has been excellent and something we want to protect.

"As ever we'll be focused on ensuring that our field position is good and that we keep good control of territory and possession.

"Wharfedale have turned over some decent sides in recent weeks and have crept to sixth on the back of that.

"They're a capable side and we'll treat them with every respect, but we're targeting a bonus point victory to keep the league position we've worked very hard to achieve so far this season."

The hosts are buoyed by the return of influential quartet Andy Baston, Guy Ford, Tom Foden and Tom Holloway.