Redcar Town manager David Tait firmly believes his side can clinch the championship - especially after their outstanding victory over arch-rivals North Shields in the semi final of the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup last week.

The Seasiders are sixth from top, nine points adrift of leaders New Marske but have played four games fewer and have at least two matches in hand on all the sides above them.

"I thought the lads played exceptionally well at North Shields and although there was only one goal in it, we were worthy winners," said Tait.

"We are now aiming for the double since the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup is the only one we are left in. We are through to the final and have a good chance of clinching the championship.

"Because we have not been at the top, people do not rate our chances but unfortunately we have not played that many games.

"We have lost just twice in the league, against Stokesley SC on both occasions which proves that we are an extremely difficult side to beat," enthused Tait.

The boss acknowledges that Steve Gent has been a big help since he came in as his number two nearly three months ago. "He has had a big influence and the team has responded positively. Several players are playing out of their skin and in my view only attitude can beat us.

"If we show the same determination and will to win as we did against North Shields, then we will have a great chance of winning the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup and going all the way in the League," Tait added.

At the other end of the table Annfield Plain breathed a sight of relief when they took full points from fellow rivals in trouble Ferryhill Athletic. It was the North West Durham side's first win of the year and ended a long losing sequence which plunged them to second from bottom.

"It was nice to get a win under our belts and it moved us three places up the league," enthused long-serving secretary Marshall Lawson.

"Our big problem has been an inability to field a full-strength side but manager Kevin Drinkeld is gradually building up a strong squad and I am sure we will be all right in the weeks ahead. Last Saturday's victory will have done the lads' confidence the world of good," added Lawson.