Stanley United manager Vince Kirkup is "over the moon" at the possibility of having to fork out cash at the end of the season.

Kirkup, now in his 25th season in charge at Hill Top, promised his players some months ago before they had won a single game that he would contribute £100 to a charity if the team finished bottom of the League.

He also agreed to donate another £100 to the players pool if they ended above the basement.

"After last week's win at Jarrow I am confident we will avoid the wooden-spoon," enthused Kirkup.

"The lads played really well and kept a clean sheet. If we repeat the form in our remaining four games against Ryhope CW, Annfield Plain, Redcar Town and Stokesley SC then I am confident we will pick up enough points to move off the bottom, where we have been for several months.

"It would be a timely silver jubilee present for me. Things are not what they used to be when I started out. The majority of clubs find it difficult - the Football League is a good example - but at Hill Top a hardy band of supporters just carry on regardless.

"Jarrow are very much like ourselves. In defeat or victory they are just as hospitable and I'm so pleased they have reached a cup final after struggling in recent years," said Kirkup.

Although disappointed with a season which he thought promised much, Kirkup is not despondent and says he is already looking forward to August.

"At the end of this campaign I hope I am dipping into my pocket to reward the lads but regardless we will again be competing in the Wearside League next season.

"It is a good League to be in with a lot of nice people and quite frankly I do not know what I would do without it," added Kirkup.