WITTON Albion kept their play-off hopes in their own hands with an impressive victory in their final home game of the season on Saturday afternoon.

Joe Duckworth’s quickfire second-half double secured a 3-1 victory over Northern Premier League West Division champions Leek Town, with the forward scoring twice in as many minutes midway through the second half.

They are tied with Bootle and City of Liverpool, who they face on the final day of the season next weekend, on 62 points with only goal difference keeping them out of the top five.

However, they know they will contest the play-offs with a win in their final game regardless of what happens elsewhere.

Brandon Newall put Albion ahead early before former 1874 Northwich midfielder Lucas Weir levelled matters for the table-toppers just after half time.

However, Duckworth then converted a penalty to put Jon Macken’s side back in front before adding a second goal – Witton’s third – barely a minute later.

Meanwhile, a poor start to the second half proved costly for 1874 as they were beaten 2-0 at Avro.

Both of the home side’s goals came within the first 10 minutes of the second half, with Matthew Crothers and Liam Ellis netting.

Already-relegated 1874 play their final NPL game until at least August 2025 next week as they host Runcorn Linnets.

In the Midland Football League, Northwich Victoria’s excellent end-of-season form continued with a 3-0 win at Bewdley Town.

Sam Unwin’s goal just after the half-hour mark gave them a half-time lead, with Dylan Switters and Will Lloyd striking after the break to secure a 3-0 victory – their fifth win in a row.