MICHAEL Welch has told Middlewich Town’s players that racking up wins is the best way to secure their place in the squad for next season.

The Witches progressed to the Cheshire League’s President’s Cup last eight following a 3-1 victory against Ashton Athletic reserves at Seddon Street last weekend.

They are unbeaten in their past five matches in all competitions, prevailing in four of them.

“We weren’t at our best by any means but all that matters in a cup game is the result,” said Town’s co-manager.

“We’re still very much assessing who we want to keep here and we’ve not hidden that we’re on the lookout for new faces.

“The lads can persuade us that they want to be part of our plans for the future by proving their worth in the coming weeks.”

READ > What happened in Saturday's amateur football matches

Middlewich, promoted from League One at the end of last term, occupy fourth place in the Premier Division with three games to play.

They resume a run-in when relegated Denton Town visit on Saturday, kick-off 3pm.

Trips to Congleton Vale and Billinge conclude their programme.

Town did not have things all their own way against opponents from League Two and Ashton took the lead when Charlie Middlemore diverted a loose ball into the net.

However a recovery after the interval, which featured a second successive double for defender Dean Burgess, changed the course of the first-round encounter.

The result was in doubt until Chris Lunn steered in substitute Marcin Manko’s cross with time running out.