A solitary goal deflected off Mellor defender Tim Phillips 20 minutes from time was enough to give Heaton Mersey the points and the Lancashire & Cheshire League Premiership title on Wednesday. But Mellor's fight goes on to hold onto the runners-up spot we have held since mid January. A win against Denton Town at home on Saturday (we beat them 2-1 away) would secure medals for the First Team. The good news is that Heaton Mersey plan to leave the league at the end of the season so Mellor could start next season's campaign as favourites. It was a tense, tight match. Mersey started nervously, whereas Mellor played without fear and knocked the ball around impressively. Jamie Longson, Mark Oldham and Craig Frisby were massive in defence. Terry Boon and Barry Dalby buzzed around impressively in midfield. Mike Palmer won headers all over the park. There was a glimmer of hope when Steve Ewing wriggled his way down the right and crossed dangerously, only for a defender to clear for a corner, when he might have deflected the ball into his own goal. Mellor suffered a double injury blow soon after when both Paul Swann and Ewing had to limp off with ankle injuries, Dave Wilkinson and Martin Jackson substituting. A minute before the break, Mersey created a single chance, a long through ball which their centre forward failed to meet with his head from six yards. In the second half the deadlock continued. Gav Thornley smothered a long range effort but was hardly tested. Mike Palmer managed a chip which the Mersey keeper turned for a corner, awkwardly. Martin Jackson put in a good shot under pressure but it went straight at the keeper. With a 0-0 draw looking the likely result, Mellor conceded a free kick on the right, the ball was swung to the far post and an attacker's header looked easy for Thornley until it hit Phillips and sent the keeper the wrong way. Mellor increased the pressure and forced a number of corners and carelessly conceded free kicks. But Mersey flooded the area with bodies and the keeper was never extended.Matty Wyatt replaced Phillips and looked sharp but couldn't find a killer pass. Mersey's celebrations at the end were more than a little tinged with relief.

NOTE: Jamie Longson has two tickets for Roy Keane's testimonial on May 9th to sell for £40. Call him on 07843 412009

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