WITTON Albion took a big stride towards securing a play-off place in the Northern Premier League West Division on Saturday afternoon.

A 4-0 win at Trafford allowed them to remain in fifth position – the final play-off place – with two matches to go.

Tom Pope's goal sent them into half-time ahead before Matt Lowton, Joe Duckworth and Brandon Newall struck after the break to secure a convincing win.

Northwich Guardian: Joe Duckworth wheels away after scoring Witton's third goal at TraffordJoe Duckworth wheels away after scoring Witton's third goal at Trafford (Image: Karl Brooks Photography)

They are being chased by both Widnes and City of Liverpool, both of whom have games in hand that they will play in midweek.

Due to their superior goal difference, City of Liverpool would move level on points but leapfrog Witton with a victory over Bootle in midweek while Widnes, who are two points further behind, are at Kidsgrove Athletic.

Jon Macken’s side host champions Leek Town next weekend before a potentially decisive trip to City of Liverpool on the final day of the season.

Watch all of the Witton goals below

Meanwhile, new manager Chris Herbert’s first game in charge of 1874 Northwich ended in familiar fashion as they were beaten 4-1 by Clitheroe at Townfield.

Greens had actually got themselves back into the contest having fallen behind to Sefton Gonzales’ early strike, with Joel Jones equalising just before the break.

Both sides were reduced to 10 men in the early stages of the second half, with Ewan McGeady and Gonzales seeing red, but Clitheroe stretched away with late goals from Andrew Teague, Louis Potts and Danny Wilkins.

Meanwhile, Northwich Victoria were in seventh heaven as they thrashed Bewdley Town 7-0 in a “home” game played at Congleton Town FC.

Callum Parker clearly found the new surroundings to his liking as he scored four goals, with Sam Unwin also striking a double as Matt Barnes’ side ran riot. Eli Fisher scored Vics’ other goal.

In the North West Counties League, Winsford United and Barnton’s seasons came to an end this afternoon

Barnton were 4-1 winners against Abbey Hulton United thanks to a Lee Turkington double and a goal each from Will Igoe and Finley Rorke while Blues were beaten 3-0 by First Division South champions Brocton.