STUART Scriven was delighted that his title-chasing side could get in some match practice last weekend ahead of this Saturday’s crunch meeting with Highgate United.

The Tividale boss, speaking ahead of a trip to face Walsall Wood – weather permitting, says the second against third clash will not decide the Midland Alliance title but could play an important part in who does eventually take top spot.

After a 3-2 win over Wellington Amateurs on a 3G pitch at Telford Scriven said: “We will prepare as we do for any game, they are all important, obviously it would be good to complete a double over them and mentally it may affect them for the rest of the season.

“But they are a up there for a reason.

“Hopefully it will be a good battle and we’ll come out with the three points at the end.”

Striker Matt Duke has been given the go-ahead to resume training having been out following ankle ligament surgery for an injury picked up in preseason.

Former Stoke City and Nantwich left-sided player Zack Foster has also joined and played a part in the friendlies with Wellington and Wolves Casuals as did young frontman Kieran Miller, who has joined the club from Pelsall Villa.

Tividale also have a yet to be confirmed fixture on Tuesday of next week as they look to catch up on games in hand over their Alliance rivals. The thirdplaced side are just eight points off top spot with eight games in hand on leaders Quorn.