So, the dream is over.

[peekay]

Our slim play-off hopes are over after we lost to Chasetown 3-1 tonight.

Not the best time for the first home defeat of the season although it's the draws that have killed our chances.

Oh well. Another season at step 4 beckons.

[ambersalamander]

Sorry to hear that. For what it's worth, I was in a mood for about two weeks when we were knocked out of the play-offs, so I kind of know how it feels. I hate the Ryman League (no offence to any Ryman types on here!)

Best of luck for next season

[robotsmfc]

I think Leek have been unfortunate this season with the quality of the best teams in that particular division. Mickleover were very impressive despite being knocked out of the FA Cup away by the Moors. Chasetown have been chasing promotion from Step 4 in the Unibond and Zamaretto leagues for the past 3 seasons now. Witton and Sheffield are big sides for that level (imo) and Kidsgrove aren't too shabby.

Maybe next season, with some strengthening of the squad, Leek can mount a better challenge, and I wish you all the best in doing that

[peekay]

I think we may struggle to hang on to our best players this summer. Newcastle Town will be coming up to this division next season and I fear they'll come waving their chequebook.
There's also the possibility that Kidsgrove may try to poach one or two players. They'll certainly be a more attractive proposition if they go up from the play-offs.
If we can hang on to our players though we have the core of a decent side. I think we only need maybe two or three players and we could make a decent push next season.

[Sultan of Cannock- SRFC]

The above applies to us at Stafford, too, almost word for word. Running with a non-contract team this season, we lost the likes of Wayne Daniel, Tim Sandercombe and David McNiven for nowt before a ball was even kicked.

We lost several, for example, Mark Magee and Jake Moult during the season after we were served with 7 day notices and the players were offered contracts by other clubs and left for free.

Financially we can't even compete with the likes of Chasetown, ffs

[peekay]

Where did Jake Moult go to Sultan?

Shame we didn't get to see more of him at Leek before he joined you.

[Sultan of Cannock- SRFC]

Alfreton, following another chap you may be familiar with, Ben Mills

www.alfretontownfc.com/players_jake_moult.htm
www.alfretontownfc.com/players_ben_mills.htm

[peekay]

They must have a thing for our players or ex-players. They're reputed to want our keeper Steve Hodgson.

[peekay]

There's also the possibility that Kidsgrove may try to poach one or two players. They'll certainly be a more attractive proposition if they go up from the play-offs.

They got knocked out of the play-offs last night. What a shame!