is a formality

WITTON Albion's hopes of promotion into the UniBond Premier Division are now almost a reality.

John Davison's side need just three points from their remaining two games to be certain of a place in the top flight next season.

But they are already in seventh place with the top 13 teams automatically gaining promotion.

For Albion not to go up Bishop Auckland, who Witton face on the final day of the season, would need to win all their fixtures.

So, in effect, a draw against Auckland would cement Albion's place in the UniBond Premier Division.

They have already done themselves a huge favour by beating Auckland away last week (see Page 87) and with fellow challengers Rossendale United only managing a draw at home to Belper, Witton's place looks assured.

Having said this Witton are experiencing erratic form themselves with a win, a draw and a loss in their past three matches.

What will have pleased Davison though is the form of his current strike pairing of Mike Moseley and the rejuvinated Craig Sargeson.

Moseley has now scored in all but one of his past four games, taking his season's tally to 30 goals, while Sargeson scored in successive matches against Leek Town and Bishop Auckland and was the provider for Albion's only goal in their game against already promoted Lincoln United.

Albion must now travel to Stocksbridge Park Steels on Saturday and will be hoping for all three points as the Sheffield side have been struggling in recent weeks.

Despite winning 4-0 against Chorley last Tuesday, they have since gone on to lose 3-0 away to Ossett Town on Saturday and 3-0 at home to Colwyn Bay.

Before this however, Witton have the small matter of the Mid Cheshire Senior Cup semi final against Congleton.

The game will be played at Wincham Park on Thursday with kick off at 7.45pm.

Should Witton win they will play Vics in the final.