Bradford Park Avenue’s quest for a place in the Blue Square Bet North play-offs was made even more difficult when they were held to a midweek home draw by Altrincham.

Avenue really needed a win while former Horsfall boss Lee Sinnott’s side would have been satisfied with the outcome.

Bradford remained in sixth place – immediately behind Altrincham, who are in the final play-off spot, as the gap between them remained at six points.

With only three games to go, it is increasingly unlikely that Avenue will be able to overhaul Sinnott’s men.

They are also in danger of being caught by seventh-placed Harrogate Town, who are just a point behind as they go into tonight’s game in hand at home to FC Halifax Town.

Yet none of that has dampened spirits and everyone inside the Avenue camp steadfastly refuses to give up the fight.

Manager John Deacey, who cut his teeth under the tutelage of Sinnott, still has a few injury concerns but hopes to keep his side in the race with a win at 17th-placed Bishop’s Stortford on Saturday.

Defender Martin Drury and forward Alex Davidson are out of the reckoning for the season – even if Avenue do get into the play-offs.

Striker Tom Corner has missed the last two games but has a chance of making the squad for this weekend’s trip.

If Avenue’s season is to go to the wire, it is another must-win game because their nearest rivals for the last play-off place both have games they are expected to take maximum points from.

Altincham are at basement outfit Hinckley United, who have been the whipping boys this term, while Harrogate are at home to struggling Stalybridge Celtic.