ACCRINGTON Stanley are quick on the draw and manager Leighton James is getting a little fed up.

For while Stanley have lost just twice since he took control, his new side have drawn nine out of a total of 13 Unibond Premier League games. James said: "While we are not losing it is come to the stage where we would be better off winning one and then losing one. Our problem is that we are not performing for a full 90 minutes. But we are working on it and we are sure it will come soon."

Stanley entertain league rivals Runcorn in the FA Trophy on Saturday and James believes he could not have had a tougher draw.

"They may be fifth in the league but they are the best team in the division and although we are at home we must be considered as the underdogs."

Desperate times mean desperate measures and Darwen manager Steve Wilkes is preying for a bit of luck to end his side's losing streak - and will accept a deflected own goal if it means picking up three points!

After Saturday's 2-0 defeat at high-flying Vauxhall GM, the Anchor Ground side remain firmly rooted to the bottom of North West Counties League Division One.

Wilkes said: "Things are getting pretty desperate at the moment although we are still playing well. But I would give anything for a win, even if it means a deflected own goal or one going in off someone's backside." Darwen take on Vauxhall GM at the Anchor Ground on Saturday and Wilkes is considering packing the midfield after seeing his side get over run in that department last weekend.

On Tuesday Darwen travel to Mossley for their re-arranged fixture which was postponed this week.

Ian McGarry's injury crisis is not getting any easier as Great Harwood prepare for Saturday's visit of Witton for their FA Trophy clash.

The Unibond League Division One outfit currently have six players battling to be fit for the cup match - and even new signing Dave Sharples from Clitheroe will miss the game because he is not eligible.

However the midfield player should make his debut for his new side in the home clash against Gretna on Wednesday.

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