A FIRST league win since early December continues to elude Witton Albion, who lost 3-1 at Gainsborough Trinity on Saturday.

Carl Macauley's men responded to the hosts breaking the deadlock but they could not do so again when the Lincolnshire side went in front for a second time midway through the second half.

As a consequence of Albion's third successive defeat, they fell to 14th spot in the BetVictor Northern Premier League.

Witton had the best of the chances in the opening exchanges against a much-improved Gainsborough team that is now unbeaten in its last six outings.

Will Jones had a shot saved, while MJ Monaghan fired narrowly wide before Alex Wiles put the home side ahead after 20 minutes with an exquisite finish.

Full marks to Witton for the response a minute later as Tom Homes smashed a shot home from close range.

Witton created little in front of goal again though in the remaining minutes of the first half, while visiting keeper Chris Renshaw made one strong save and watched another effort fly over the crossbar.

Renshaw had no difficulties with a Wiles shot at the start of the second half, while Cesaire Lingouba struck from distance but his effort went high over the crossbar.

Owens forced the keeper into a save after 57 minutes and it was the last time Witton threatened the net.

Gainsborough restored their advantage from a counter attack, with Wiles bagging his second goal.

And seven minutes later Will Thornton blasted in from short range to kill the game at 3-1.

Witton: Renshaw, Baldwin, Short, Wardle, Anson, Smart, Monaghan, Owens, Jones, Lingouba, Foley. Subs: Mitchley, Ryan, McKenna, Booth, Neild.

Albion's Mid Cheshire District FA Senior Cup semi final at home to 1874 Northwich is rescheduled for Tuesday, February 18, kick-off 7.45pm.