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Halesowen Town manager Morell Maison believes there are plenty more twists and turns to come in the promotion race from the BGB Premier Division, and while others may be feeling the pressure he is loving every minute of it.

With all the top sides now having played an equal amount of games the Yeltz are occupying third place and guaranteed a play-off place.

Sitting two points behind Team Bath and four behind leaders Kings Lynn, automatic promotion would require both their rivals to slip-up but whatever the outcome Maison is delighted with life at the Grove.

He said: "When I came in I set myself and the players three goals.

"The first one was to make the play-offs so we've achieved that.

"The second one was to finish runners-up therefore guaranteeing us home advantage throughout the play-offs and that is a distinct possibility and the third aim was the championship and we are still in their with a chance of pinching it at the final hurdle, which is an incredible achievement considering where we were when I took over.

"To get ourselves in this position has required a valiant effort by everyone and to be honest we are not afraid of anyone in this league.

"We are top of the form guide and if we had through the play-offs I'm sure no-one would fancy playing us."

The Yeltz were without a fixture at the weekend so by the time they play Clevedon at home this Saturday (3pm kick-off) they would have had a two- week break from action.

The manager believes this mini-break could well work in their favour.

He added: "This break could not have come at a better time for us.

"It's given the players an opportunity to chill out and relax as we have lowered the intensity in training and I think it's really helped the players focus on the job ahead both physically and mentally.

Saturday's game will be the Yeltz's last clash at the Grove during the regular season and the manager is hoping a bumper crowd will be present to show their appreciation to the players.

He said: "The period we have coming up is probably the biggest in the club's recent history and we need all the help we can get so hopefully we will have a bumper crowd.

"Since I have been here the fans have been terrific and I'm sure they will be no different this Saturday because they really are our twelfth man."

The manager is expecting to have a fully fit squad to pick from apart from long-term absentee Shane Paul.

At half-time three of Halesowen's top up and coming boxers will be showing their support to the Yeltz cause before they aim to fly the flag for the town in the ring later this month.

Meanwhile in the Midland Allliance Causeway United did their bid for a top five finish no harm after picking up a 1-0 win away at Oldbury United courtesy of a Stuart How goal.

This Saturday they welcome Shifnal to the War Memorial Ground (3pm kick-off).

Elsewhere Cradley Town were beaten 2-0 away at Stapenhill to remain rooted to the bottom of the table.

This Saturday they are at home to Boldmere (3pm kick-off).

10:10am Thursday 17th April 2008

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