In the 2002–03 season, Chester came close to promotion but they lost their Conference play-off semi-final to Doncaster Rovers in a penalty shootout. After that defeat Wright vowed his side would "come back stronger" and the following season they won the Conference title - sealing promotion with a 1–0 win over Scarborough in April 2004. Wright said he would "cherish" the moment Chester confirmed their return to the Football League but he would not be in charge for their first game in League Two the following season.