DROYLSDEN boss Dave Pace backed struggling Tameside neighbours Hyde United to avoid relegation after seeing them make his resurgent Bloods work hard for three more points towards their Blue Square North title quest.

Pace's men had to wait for nearly an hour before top scorer Tony Gray finally struck to secure them a third successive league victory - one which takes them back up to second place.

Up until that point, Droylsden had failed to break down a stubborn Hyde side for whom the 1-0 defeat leaves them just a point above the drop-zone following a nightmare run which has seen them win just once since August.

But a relieved Pace later insisted the endangered Tigers can survive - and tipped them to do the Bloods a huge favour by taking points off championship favourites Southport when they take on the leaders at Ewen Fields tonight (7.45pm).

"Based on the way Hyde played against us, I'm sure they'll stay up and, what's more, I think they will certainly give Southport a game," said the Droylsden chief.

Meanwhile, inconsistent Ashton United suffered another UniBond Premier promotion set-back as they slipped to fourth in losing 1-0 to visiting North Ferriby.

FC United's home clash with Kendal was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. Both Altrincham and Stalybridge were without a game.

Curzon Ashton, who are still facing the deduction of five points to add to the three they've already had docked, stepped up their against- all-odds UniBond North title challenge with Mike Norton scoring twice in their 5-2 romp at Chorley.

Leigh maintained their promotion charge with a 3-1 home victory over second-placed Colwyn Bay. Trafford were also triumphant, winning 2-0 at Warrington, but Woodley's woes continued with a 2-1 defeat at high-flying FC Halifax.

The games involving Mossley, Radcliffe and Salford were all off, as was New Mills' home Vodkat League tussle with Maine Road.

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