TADCASTER Albion's Evo-Stik League east division play-off dream is still not out of the question - but it may yet prove fruitless.

With one game of this term remaining, the Brewers can squeeze into the top five if they beat Lincoln United tomorrow and Sheffield FC lose at Brighouse Town.

This season's new play-off structure, however, means the two teams with the lowest points-per-game (PPG) ratio across the seven Step 4 divisions will win their play-offs and not get promoted.

So even if Taddy do finish as one of the coveted quintet, they could still stand no chance of playing premier division football next season. The Brewers are remaining positive though.

Club spokesman Jay Taylor said: "We're obviously excited. We're grateful to still be in with a shout of the play-offs thanks to a last-gasp equaliser and Sheffield drawing a blank against Belper.

"It's gone down to the last day, as it always seems to do.

"We know it's virtually impossible to go up but (manager) Simon Collins is still desperate to finish in the play-off bracket. It's another achievement the club will have had two years running."

On the PPG situation, Taylor added: "It is what it is. Two teams will win their play-off finals and not get promoted.

"It'll be somewhat strange for us playing a team who can go up when we can't. We could think, 'What is there to play for?'

"It's crazy really, but it's still nice to get in the play-offs.

"We're confident (of getting fifth) - Sheffield's game at Brighouse won't be easy. It's definitely not out of the question."

Taddy's hopes were almost ended on Easter Monday when a 90th-minute Aiden Savory strike was needed to rescue a 1-1 draw at North Yorkshire rivals Pickering Town.

Had they taken all three points from Mill Lane, their play-off push would be well in their hands, with even the possibility of finishing fourth.

Taylor said: "We didn't get into the game until half an hour in, but credit to the lads for continuing to play we want to play.

"They kept plugging away and got the equaliser that has saved our chance of the play-offs. It was disappointing, especially after the high of Saturday.

"But we got a point, so we've got to be positive. That has to be our main focus, rather than what-ifs."

Striker Joe Lumsden is serving his final game of suspension after his sending-off against Frickley. Should Taddy make the cut, they will travel to either Brighouse or Pontefract Collieries.

Now assured of safety, Pickering host Loughborough Dynamo tomorrow.

Manager Denny Ingram has agreed a deal keeping him at Mill Lane until the end of next season. Scarborough Athletic host Workington in the premier division.

Selby Town end their Northern Counties East League division one campaign at home to Nostell Miners Welfare. Premier division basement side Harrogate Railway Athletic visit Staveley and Knaresborough Town go to Liversedge.

Harrogate Town travel to Wrexham tomorrow in the National League.