JAN VAN DEVENTER has called on his in-form Chester to adopt a more ruthless streak in games.

Currently second in Division Two North and just four points adrift of the summit, the title-chasing Hare Lane club are in the midst of a four-game winning streak.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Fylde, South African coach Van Deventer believes a more clinical approach can ease the pressure on them late in games.

He said: “It’s about belief more than anything. Plenty of times already this season we’ve got well on top in games and really dominated territory and possession but the scoreline hasn’t always reflected that.

“That was the case against Wharfedale last weekend, where we were pegged back in the game after a solid first half and really had to dig deep at the end for the win.

“It’s pleasing that we can find that extra gear so late in the game but it shouldn’t come to that.

“So I’m telling the players now that once we’ve got a foot on the opposition’s throat - we then have to finish them off by taking as many of the chances that we create as possible.

“It’s about putting games to bed earlier than we have been. If we can add that element to our game, that would only make us stronger.

“Fylde’s phase work will be strong and they’ll be coming here looking to put at least four tries on us. But we’re fully focused on stopping them and hurting them with the strength of our attacking plays.”

Relegated last term after a five-year stint in Division One, Fylde also struggled for form in the early stages of the campaign. But successive league victories over Stourbridge and South Leicester have lifted the Lancashire club to sixth in the table.

Van Deventer is wary of the quality in their ranks but insists his players are ‘100 per cent committed’ to preserving this season’s unbeaten home record.

“There’s experience in that Fylde squad and as a club they had a good stint up there in Division One,” he added. “I expect them to keep the ball well, and to test us defensively through their set plays.

“Their phase work will be strong and they’ll be coming here looking to put at least four tries on us.

“Our home record is there to be shot at this season, but it’s something we’re very proud about and we want that to continue for as long as possible.”

Andy Baston and Alick Croft could both return from injury, with Ross White also set to feature.

Leaders Hull Ionians are at home to Otley, while title rivals Huddersfield visit South Leicester.

Tynedale entertain Leicester Lions, Sheffield Tigers head to Wharfedale, Macclesfield visit fellow strugglers Peterborough Lions, Hinckley are at home to Preston Grasshoppers while Sedgley Park head to Stourbridge.