FORMER star Lee Richardson today told distraught Town: "Don't be scared of the play-offs."

Chesterfield assistant Richardson, a member of Peter Jackson's Great Escape team eight years ago, helped plot the 2-1 Galpharm defeat which leaves Town vulnerable in the top six.

He insists, however, that all is not lost for Town despite missing the chance to go second and winning only two matches in nine before Saturday's trip to Walsall.

"It's the most open division I've ever been involved in and it's still wide open," said Richardson. "I hope Town get there automatically, but I just feel there's a little bit of pressure around which doesn't help.

"I hope the young players at the club can cope with that, realise how well they've done and how well they are doing. They've just got to amass as many points as they can and if they have to go in the play-offs then so be it.

"It's no shame, no disgrace, it's just football: competitive.

"Playing like the first 20 minutes against us they've got a great chance."

Paul Hall's double won it for Chesterfield after David Graham had given Town a first-half lead.

"If Town go to Walsall and win, everyone will be lifted again," added Richardson.

"That's the nature of football and I'd be really pleased for Peter if they could do it. What happened to him with the club before was an absolute disgrace, terrible, and what he's done since he came back with the staff and young players is brilliant.

"It's a progressive club with a lot going for it and that's what you've to focus on."