News

As a memorable campaign enters its vital final phase, Rovers still have their sights firmly set on runners-up position.

And such an achievement would result in Gresley becoming one of the most substantial beneficiaries from the sponsorship deal negotiated by the league with Black Country brewers Banks's.

Banks's are sponsoring the league to the tune of £10,000 and £500 of that will fins its way to the Moat Ground if Frank Northwood's men can clinch second place.

Already Gresley are assured of a £162 cheque as a result of their goal scoring exploits.

An element of the sponsorship deal allows £2 for each goal scored and with 82 goals to their credit only Halesowen, the champions and current leaders, are likely to profit more than Rovers.

With six games remaining, Gresley have ample opportunity to improve on their tally and the possibility of them reaching the magical 100 mark cannot be ruled out in the current mood.

The only apparent cloud on the horizon is the recent form of Atherstone United the side most likely to deprive them of runners-up spot.

The Adders have strung together some excellent results since their 3-1 defeat at the Moat Ground on Easter Monday and enough games in hand to overhaul Rovers.

All Gresley can do is to attempt to maintain their astonishing form of 1986 since the start of the year , they have remained unbeaten in 16 games, a phenomenal performance considering that more than half of their matches have been played on opposing territory.

In the light of that sort of form, it will not worry them unduly that four of their remaining games have to be played away – including trips to Tamworth (tomorrow), Harrison's – currently third in the table – and much improved Brereton Social.

Still, there is some consolation in the knowledge that should their bold bid for second place fail, there is £250 prize awaiting the side finishing third.