THE play-offs are beckoning for Blue Square North neighbours Stalybridge and Hyde after each boosted their promotion prospects with vital wins.

Skipper Steve Payne's last-gasp goal earned Bridge a 1-0 win at Blyth, taking them up to fourth, while the Tigers stay tucked in behind their Tameside rivals after beating visiting Hucknall 4-2 with Chris Simm (2), Dave Morley and Matty Tipton on target.

But it's surely now curtains for bottom-of-the-table Leigh, who remain six points adrift and hot favourites to go down after being sunk 2-1 by Barrow.

Table-topping Witton's huge UniBond Premier lead was cut to 11 points as they suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at Prescot.

Ashton United played out a goalless draw with Guiseley, which wasn't enough to stop the relegation alarm bells ringing louder than ever at Hurst Cross.

Curzon Ashton, who visit UniBond First Division North rivals FC United on Wednesday, maintained their championship charge with ace marksman Mike Norton hitting both their goals in a 2-0 win over visiting Newcastle Blue Star.

Meanwhile, Trafford strengthened their grip on top spot in the Vodkat League with Dion Depeiaza and Andy Lundy on target in a 2-0 victory at second-placed Salford.