HALESOWEN Town secured Northern Premier League survival thanks to Tuesday night's goalless draw at Ilkeston.

The Yeltz battled to a point against their already-relegated rivals to guarantee themselves a place at the same level next season.

John Hill's men had suffered a 3-0 defeat at champions Blyth Spartans last Saturday but kept a clean sheet three days later to pick up the final point they needed.

The boss was delighted to stay up with four games still left this season. He said: "We needed a minimum of a point against Ilkeston and we got that.

"It wasn't a great spectacle by any means but it was a case of job done.

"They are a good side, playing without any pressure now and only lost 2-1 against Stourbridge recently. The pitch was terrible and the floodlights failed at one stage as well so we'll just take the point and be happy with that.

"I'm delighted for the club and the fans that we'll be at this level again next season. There are some really good teams with good budgets that are below us and not out of the woods yet.

"We don't want to be in this position again next season but it's a difficult league and we've battled well to make sure we got out of trouble."

Hill was even more pleased his players got the job done on Tuesday night as he looks ahead to a tough run-in and a host of selection headaches.

Hales will face a trip to play-off chasing Workington this Saturday before going to relegation-threatened Sutton Coldfield on Monday.

Home games against third-placed Nantwich and neighbours Rushall Olympic complete their campaign.

Defenders Kyle Morrison, Rob Taylor and James Bennett and attackers Ethan Delaney and Mo Diop are all set to miss Saturday's clash.

Hill said: "I'd like to think we could end the season strong now but that is going to be tough when you look at the fixtures we have.

"I'm glad we've got enough points already because the last four games are not great.

"Looking back now, that win at Hednesford last Wednesday was absolutely massive for us.

"With the players we have missing it also means I may have to have a look at a few of the academy lads.

"At least that will give them a good grounding and could even show me a few options I have for next season."