WESTHOUGHTON Lions dropped out of the play-off spots in Division four of the North West Mens’ League after falling to a 36-6 defeat at league leaders Chester Gladiators.

The manner of the loss was not unexpected, with the Gladiators taking their unblemished record this season to 10 wins from their 10 games.

But the fact the Lions are still in the hunt for a place in the top four will be a comfort to boss Geoff Sheehan.

His side dropped to fifth place in the table following their sixth defeat of the season after being replaced in the play-off places by Garswood Stags.

The Lions have a couple of weeks off now before travelling to Garswood in what could be a season-defining encounter on August 22.

“This game could be key to our play-off hopes,” added Sheelan.

“It is not going to be easy at Garswood as they are obviously going for the play-offs as well.

“But if we can get through the game with a positive result then we have a good chance to do something.”

Westhoughton finish their league season with a run of five games in a row at home.

That run starts off with the visit of sixth-placed Bury Broncos A on September 5.

They then host Rochdale Cobras (second), Rylands Sharks A (eighth) and Cardishead Rhinos (seventh) before finishing off with what could be another crunch game against third-placed Manchester Rangers.

Elsewhere, Bolton Mets resume their bid to avoid the drop from Division Three this weekend with a trip to fourth-placed Wigan Bulldogs.

The Mets have just four points to their name following two wins from their 13 matches. They will be hoping to bounce back from their last games, an 82-0 defeat at home to unbeaten leaders Pilkington Recs A on July 18.