First-half goals from Karl Charlton, Matt Haddrell and Nick Ward secured a 3-1 win on Saturday, meaning Athletic can move within three points off top spot if they beat Barwell tomorrow.

But manager Pete Ward admitted: "Lose and we can kiss goodbye to the title."

However, Ward is relishing the excitement of the business end of the season.

He said: "It's a funny old game, football.

"A couple of weeks ago we thought it was all over, but a couple of results have gone in our favour and it's all back on again.

"All season there has been no talk of the play-offs, it has always been about getting automatic promotion. If we want to win championships we have to win games like these.

"Newcastle and Brigg are still in with a shout and I dare say there will be more twists and turns yet."

Charlton came off complaining of a tight hamstring against Spalding, but is expected to be fit for tomorrow night's encounter.

Writes The Sentinel