
Action is hotting up for local teams in the National Conference with some key games this weekend.
Top of the bill is tonight’s Premier Division clash in the Conference when Kells host Wath Brow (6.30pm ko).
Keen rivals over the years this is a vital game for the hosts as they sit in the bottom three and time is running out for them.
They need a win in the penultimate game of the season to help in the battle to avoid the drop.
The Hornets are already assured of finishing fifth in the Division and a slot in the play-offs and nothing they do tonight, win or lose, will change that.
Kells, on the other hand, probably need to beat Wath Brow and win in their final game at Thatto Heath next Saturday to avoid a return to Division One.
Egremont Rangers are in the last chance saloon at home to Heworth when defeat would confirm their swift return to Division One.
Like Kells, they can point to an unfortunate long injury list which has wrecked their campaign on their return to the top flight.
A win over Heworth and victory at York Acorn next week in their final game would not necessarily keep them up.
There’s also a fight for Cumbrian sides in Division Two to avoid relegation.
Barrow Island currently occupy the third relegation place and have a massive game tomorrow at Saddleworth Rangers, the team immediately below them in the table.
Millom, who are just two points better off, can earn their safety with a home win against the bottom side Myton Warriors.
Ellenborough Rangers should have enough in hand, although they do face a tough trip to second-in-the-table Wigan St Jude’s tomorrow.
They host Normanton Knights in their final game while Millom travel to another team in trouble Pilkington Recs for their final fixture.
Barrow Island will end their campaign next week at home to mid-table Thornhill Trojans.
No doubt about Division Three’s main fixture tomorrow – Distington v Hensingham could decide which one automatically wins promotion and which has to go through the play-offs.
Seaton have struggled all season through limited numbers but will be looking for a good show in their final home game with Beverley the visitors.