WINSFORD United Reserves may hold the key to the success of the first team.

That's according to Blues manager Dave Twite who has seen several vital members of his squad drop out with injuries over the past few weeks.

Twite, who has been without star striker Rob Hopley all season, has now seen Chris Hutchinson, keeper Michael Langley and influential midfielder Chris Melia all break down with a variety of injuries.

Despite this Winsford have remained in the hunt for league honours and that, according to Twite, is down to the strength in depth at Barton Stadium.

He said: "The recent injuries have really vindicated our decision to reinstate the reserves for this season. We have already seen the benefits with lads like Dennis Topping and Tim Drohan coming through to help the first team.

"Dennis was brought in on Saturday because Melia pulled up in pre-match training and he was excellent for us."

And it is not just injuries to first team regulars that have highlighted the value of the reserves.

Last week's defeat at Blackpool Mechanics prompted Twite to consign the first team to an extra training session on Wednesday, while he brought in 11 reserve players to represent Winsford in a friendly.

He added: "Having a reserve team meant I could show those who played against Blackpool that there are other players waiting for their chance to play for the first team and that anyone not giving 100 per cent will be dropped."

This seems to have had the desired effect as Winsford returned to winning ways on Saturday with a 3-1 victory over Holker Old Boys.

Twite said: "I was pleased with the response of the players and we were back to our best."

This weekend Winsford play host to Padiham in the FA Vase, kick off 3pm.