Midfield maestro Kevin McIntyre is hoping it will be third time lucky as he gears up for his latest crack at the play-offs.

The 31-year-old has suffered the despair of defeat twice in the end-of-season battle for promotion, with Chester in the Conference in 2003 and Macclesfield in League Two in 2005.

Now he is desperate to have reason to celebrate after the forthcoming double-header with Bury.

“We got knocked out at Chester on penalties by Doncaster, who went on to get promoted, and then when I signed for Macclesfield, we got beat by Lincoln,” said McIntyre.

“Hopefully it’s going to be third time lucky.

“I’m really looking forward to the play-off games because they are brilliant to be involved in.

“They are full houses home and away and the cameras are always there – it’s what you want as a professional footballer.”

McIntyre’s involvement is a major boost to the left-footer who made his return in Saturday’s season-extending 2-1 victory at Dagenham & Redbridge after being out for four months with a broken leg sustained at Port Vale in January.

“To play some part in the game was brilliant for me,” he added. “I was surprised to start but at the same time I was ready and I was hoping that I would be involved.

“I’d played twice in the reserves but fitness is different in the first team because of the occasion.

“Once the first 20 minutes were out the way I felt good. The last five or 10 minutes were tough but by then, you see the light at the end of the tunnel and the fans get behind you.

“I’m just delighted to be back amongst the squad and available for selection and hopefully I will play some part in the last few games.”

• Tickets are being snaffled up for Sunday’s second leg at Bury and places on the coaches are also available.
• To travel with the Official Supporters Club contact Ian Venables on 07981 593 437.
• Chris Smith, on 01952 604742, is the contact for the Away Travel Club, while it’s the same number to book a place on coaches running from Oswestry, Wem and Telford for tomorrow’s home game.

By JAMES GARRISON