A FIRST league win since August 26 remains elusive for Witton Albion.

Ben Harrison’s side fell 1-0 at Mossley in Northern Premier League West on Saturday afternoon.

It takes the red and white stripes, who welcomed back Altrincham loan players Joel Bailey and Owen German to the ranks, to five league matches without tasting victory.

Mason Fawns scored the all-important goal for the hosts on 62 minutes.

Meanwhile, 1874 Northwich drew 1-1 at Shifnal Town in the Midland League Premier Division.

Liam Fitzpatrick scored 74’s equaliser in added time at the end of the first half after Jack Fishman had put the hosts ahead in the 36th minute.

It was an opportunistic effort as Fitzpatrick cashed in on a poor clearance by the home keeper, neatly going round him with the ball and slotting home.

1874, however, have now gone three games without a win and remain fifth in the Midland League Premier Division though they do have between two and six games in hand on the sides above them.

Manager Chris Herbert handed a full debut to new signing Will Hodgson, whose twin Harry was named on the bench following the pair’s confirmed signing this week.

Both brothers played for 1874 during pre-season, but have been awaiting international clearance following their time playing in Dubai last term.

Harry is primarily a winger and scored twice in the 6-1 thrashing of neighbours Witton Albion. Will is a central midfielder with great attacking intent.

Herbert said: “It has been a long wait for the lads.

“We rate them very highly at our club and they will make a difference with their energy and aggressiveness.”

1874 have also drafted in striker Harry Showman on loan from Salford City but he did not feature at Shifnal.

Ash Wardle returned at left back, but Herbert was still without experienced campaigners Mark Jones, Matt Woolley, Chris McCann and frontman Joel Jones.

Also in the Midland League Premier Division, Northwich Victoria drew 1-1 at home to Studley.

Jack Coop put Vics ahead from the penalty spot in the 32nd minute but the visitors got themselves back on level terms in the 79th minute.

Vics slip a place to ninth as a result.

Meanwhile, Winsford United stayed third in North West Counties Football League Division One South thanks to a hard-earned 1-0 win at Abbey Hulton United.

Blues rode their luck at times, were saved by the crossbar on one occasion and some resolute defence was needed to keep the hosts at bay.

In the end, a 36th-minute own goal gave Winsford their 11th league win of the season.

Matty Welding scored the leveller that earned Barnton a point at home against Shawbury United, cashing in on some great approach work by the returning Sam Smith.

The Villagers will be disappointed they did not nail a win though, given how one-sided the contest was.