MICK Higgins, who parted company with rock bottom Great Harwood Town last week, still believes they can avoid the drop.

But he says their task of staying in Unibond League Division One has been made that much harder because he was not allowed to finish the job.

The former manager said: "Steve Whitehead and the chairman Bill Holden have taken control of the team I wish them all the best. But it is going to be difficult.

"They still have enough time and games to avoid the drop but I feel a little puzzled and disappointed that I could not complete the job."

After crashing out of the Unifilla Divisional Cup, losing 6-1 on aggregate to Lancaster City, Great Harwood can now concentrate on survival.

On Saturday (March30) they entertain high flying Alfreton and Mr Holden said he will not be rushed into appointing a new manager.

He said: "We have had four managers in the last three seasons and what I want is stability. I know who I want in charge here and I'm confident I can appoint someone in the next few weeks."

Town have nine games left and are five points from safety at the foot of the table. Mr Holden knows his side must win at least five of those games if they are going to survive.

"Draws are no good for us at this stage but if the lads show the commitment they have done in recent weeks and have that little bit of luck, we can still stay up."

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