High-flying Holker Old Boys targeting successful end to impressive North West Counties campaign

Their impressive season in North West Counties First Division North is now unlikely to deliver the title after Tuesday’s goalless draw with South Liverpool.

But Watkin’s team remain unbeaten in 11 games and are guaranteed a home game in the play-off semi-finals.

Despite the frustration of back-to-back draws, the prospect of success remains very much within the grasp of the Rakesmoor Lane side.

Watkin now hopes they can complete their final three league games in positive form before the shoot-out in the play-offs.

Speaking to the BBC, he admitted Tuesday’s draw – which means Bury AFC are highly likely to clinch the title – was a frustrating one for the team.

“It’s deflating to come off the back of two draws, but the key thing is that’s still 11 games unbeaten – a very positive string of results,” he said.

“But we need to try and get back into that winning habit to go into those play-offs with that momentum.”

Tuesday saw a 0-0 draw for Holker Old Boys with South Liverpool

On the prospect of a home game in the play-off semis – hopefully followed by a final also at Rakesmoor Lane – he added: “Any team would take that position…but you can’t take it for granted. They’re knock-out games and it’s who really want it on that day and shows the quality when it really matters.

“To be where we are now is a huge step forward. We’re not underestimating what we’ve achieved up to now but we’re very driven to take that final step.”

It has been an excellent season for the Barrow-based club who have not been beaten since their 2-0 loss to Bury in mid-January.

They were named the league’s team of the month for February, and Watkin said it is great credit to the team and club to have pushed Bury close this season.

“They have still got a lot of infrastructure, funding, fanbase and budget which allows them to be a slight anomaly in our league,” he said.

“To be on par with them and putting them under significant pressure, from a town perspective, with our small catchment area, I think it’s a reflection on the town.”

The team recently went on a nine-game winning run and have attracted praise for their displays.

And Watkin - whose team host Ilkley Town on Saturday - has praised the spirited unity his players have shown so far.

“Anyone that plays team sports will probably recognise there aren’t many better feelings coming off the pitch at 5pm with a group of your mates having won,” he said.

“It’s a high you don’t get in many other things. Every one of the lads appreciates that. It’s reflected in their performance; they can’t wait to do it as a group and win together as a group.”