Shropshire Star

Haughmond left battling for second place

Haughmond boss Dan Williams admits his side now face a battle for second spot after conceding defeat in the West Midlands League Premier Division title race.

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Last Saturday’s loss at home to Malvern handed the initiative back to Tividale and although Mond bounced back to beat Bilston Town in midweek, Williams feels the Black Country side will now go on to win their remaining four games and be crowned champions.

But there is still a chance that the runners-up spot could be enough to secure a step up in standard.

“I think Tividale will go on to win the title now, definitely,” said Williams.

“We are playing for second place along with Wolves Casuals, Malvern and possibly Wednesfield.

“The suggestion is that nine sides from 19 divisions across step six with the best second-placed records will be promoted.

“So that is still something to aim for, although we still have some tough games left to play, starting at Hereford Lads Club tomorrow.”

And Williams will head for a testing afternoon in Hereford without key men Kev Renshaw and Joe Parry due to injury.

“At the start of the season you would have put Hereford down as one of your toughest away trips,” added Williams.

“It’s a difficult place to go. They are an aggressive side with some good players.

“It’s going to be a tough test for us but we need to finish the season as strong as possible and see where that leaves us.

“The injuries to Joe and Kev haven’t helped and I will probably have to change to shape of our side tomorrow.”

Brett Taylor and Scott Ryan bagged the goals that saw off Bilston on Wednesday night while Carl Rogers is facing a ban after being sent off with 20 minutes to go.

At the other end of the table, Shawbury, who bagged a crucial 2-0 win at Dudley Sports last weekend, face a crunch clash at home to fellow strugglers Pershore, knowing a victory would all but end their relegation fears.

Wem, who have slipped into the bottom two, host a Malvern side who have yet to taste defeat on the road in the league this season.

Bridgnorth head to the Black Country to take on Bilston Town.