MOSSLEY boss Ally Pickering has dismissed fears that victory in the big FA Vase fifth-round clash with Prescot at Seel Park might gift-wrap the Scousers the North West Counties title and promotion to the UniBond League.

With the Lilywhites now arguably the only team who can catch table-topping Prescot, who they'll trail by only five points if they win their games in hand, the outcome of their Vase meeting tomorrow (Saturday) could well have a crucial bearing on the championship race.

Whoever loses will be free to concentrate on the league and so, ironically, could profit from having their hopes of Vase glory dashed.

But ex-Coventry star Pickering, whose side have taken four points off Prescot this term, doesn't see it that way, saying: "As far as I'm concerned, this tie is another chance for us to put doubts in their mind about their ability to last the course in the league."

Tomorrow's top local UniBond League clash sees second-placed Stalybridge attempting to cut Accrington's huge 11-point lead.

Skipper Kevin Parr could return from the ankle injury which has kept him out since New Year's Day, but winger Colin Potts (hamstring) is doubtful.

Droylsden, whose boss Dave Pace is eyeing the NWCL's 33-goal top scorer Skelmersdale's Stuart Rudd, will be seeking revenge for their FA Trophy defeat by Colwyn Bay when the Welshmen return to the Butcher's Arms.

Altrincham's mission, on the other hand, will be to bounce back from their Trophy exit by beating visiting Blyth, while Ashton, lying fifth, look to avenge their crushing 4-1 home defeat by Bradford when they head across the Pennines for the return.

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