Things could not have gone much better for Thackley since the enforced weather break.

Even allowing for last Saturday’s defeat, the Reds are still in the top four.

With just one promotion place to the UniBond League from the Kool Sport NCEL Premier Division, it takes a special season to make the breakthrough.

But boss Dave Morgan, who has only been in charge since the end of September, has not abandoned hope.

He said: “Let’s face it, it would take a massive slip by the top two for them to drop out of the frame but that is what we have to hope for.

“Ourselves and the other clubs in with a glimmer of a chance have to put as many points on the board as we can to keep the pressure on them.

“I think we have done as well as can be expected on that front over the last couple of months.

“We have no cup games or other distractions so we can give it our full attention.

“If we do that and stay in the top three or four, there is always a chance. It is easy saying all that but a lot harder actually doing it.”

The former Guiseley and Park Avenue stalwart admits he could do with boosting resources.

He said: “At the moment squad numbers are down and that leads to results like last Saturday’s defeat.

“Out of the blue following four straight wins, we lose one we were capable of winning.

“We need a few more in the squad to keep everyone keen and the results coming.

“We have been fortunate with injuries so far this season which is a positive but we do have a few players one booking away from a suspension so a couple of fresh faces would not go amiss.

“Players are tired and have worked hard but maintaining that focus and desire is a tough job and it is rare in players.

“Let’s face it, they have the talent and they want it but if they could find that missing consistency they would surely be playing at a higher level."