MANAGER Barry Massey believes Hindsford’s tilt at a first Premier Division title is still in their own hands, despite the club dropping two valuable points at midtable Wythenshawe Amateurs on Saturday.

The table-toppers twice came from behind, with goals from striker Mark Battersby early in the second half and a lastminute strike from substitute Nick Mullineux earning Hindsford a 2-2 draw.

“This is a match we really should have won, but only had ourselves to blame,” said Massey.

“We dominated the game, but gave away two silly goals, the first from a mix-up in our defence and the second a penalty after our centre-back went right through their striker.”

East Manchester drew level on points with Hindsford after a 3-0 win at Manchester Gregorians, but remain in second place on goal difference. They have a game in hand, but Massey is not panicking yet.

“We still have to play East Manchester twice, so if we win both those games then it’s in our own hands,” said Massey.

Hindsford have a tough run of fixtures coming up, with consecutive home matches against third-placed Walshaw Sports on Saturday and East Manchester the week after.

The frosty conditions hit the Division One fixtures, with Atherton Town’s match at Rochdale Sacred Heart and Breightmet United’s trip to Wilmslow Albion both off.

Pennington did well to get their match on against local rivals Fives Athletic and were rewarded with a win.

James Brookes headed the only goal of the game on 25 minutes from a Craig Massey free-kick. And while they weathered late pressure, including a Josh Smith shot that hit the post, they ran out worthy winners.

The result closes the gap between Fives, who sit in the third and final promotion spot, and fourth-placed Pennington, to two points.

Both clubs’ faint title ambitions were helped by a remarkable 4-1 win for Leigh Athletic at home to leaders Wythenshawe Town.

Leigh went into the break 1-0 down, but two goals from Chris Hopwood early in the second half put them ahead.

The home side then had Neil Sumner sent off for a professional foul, but stretched their lead as Wythenshawe Town chased the game, with goals from Paul Wilkinson and a fine solo effort from James Dooley five minutes from time sealing a memorable victory.