BLUEBIRDS' stand-in skipper Wayne Thorne believes the team just need a bit more luck to end their bad run.

Thorne has been deputising for Martin Paul in the past couple of weeks, but is due to return the armband tomorrow.

The consistent left back produced another solid performance in the Bluebirds' unfortunate loss at home to Welling on Saturday and feels better times could be just around the corner.

While last year Chippenham were challenging at the top of the Dr Marten's Premier League for much of the season, their fortunes have taken a nosedive this year.

But Thorne believes there is not a great deal of difference between their current form and that of last season.

He said: "I think Saturday was the best we've played all season, but we didn't have any luck. Their keeper made a couple of good saves.

We've just got to try and work hard. We just need something to kick start our season.

"We played much worse at times last year and got three points every game. The goals we conceded were the only two mistakes the defence made all game."

Thorne says life under Steve White has seen a few changes at Hardenhuish Park, but these have been well received among the players.

He said: "We are trying to play football and the fitness levels are much better now.

"We are not chucking in the towel yet. We are a team of fighters and we'll keep on fighting until it's all over."

Thorne was delighted at the size of Saturday's crowd, which saw 579 fans cheering on the Bluebirds. With free entry for all under-15s this proved a successful venture for the club as it tries to build for the future.

Thorne said: "The crowd gave us good support today. I think they will have gone home knowing they've watched a good game."