WHILE thousands of Marathon runners pounded the streets of London last week, Jim Harvey's men completed another three steps in what is becoming an increasingly laboured slog towards the end of the season.

Any possibility of a change in the Shrimps' status next season has now evaporated, a factor which has contributed to a decline in gates at Christie Park over the last couple of months.

Jim Harvey's side managed an impressive victory, disappointing defeat and a brave draw during the last week.

Monday night's action saw the Shrimps travel to Stevenage, where they grabbed a late equaliser courtesy of Phil Eastwood.

The big former Burnley striker, on as a late substitute, was felled in the penalty area and stepped up himself to convert the spot kick.

Jim Harvey had given youth its head, handing conference debuts to yet more academy graduates, this time Neil Uberschar and Stephen Alty.

Fellow youngster Leon Smith and Dave Swannick also played their part.

Sam McMahon had put Stevenage ahead within 10 minutes, but once again the Shrimps put on a good display against opponents who are much higher in the league.

On Saturday, Forest Green Rovers looked by far the brighter as they put the jaded Shrimps out of their misery.

Alex Sykes' 25 yard shot looked to have been covered by Andy Banks, but the reserve keeper lost control of the ball and could only watch helplessly as it rolled over the line. Alex Meechan doubled the advantage in the dying seconds to garner revenge for a side the Shrimps memorably beat in the first round of the FA cup.

Last Wednesday's game saw a comfortable victory against moneybags club Doncaster Rovers.

The South Yorkshire side were expected to challenge for the title this season, but first half goals from Robbie Talbot and Adriano Rigoglioso did the damage, though a Jamie Paterson penalty put Doncaster back on terms for a few first half minutes.

The nationwide trek is coming towards an end, but Morecambe still have three games this week.

They visit Leigh's Hilton Park today (Thursday), kick off 7.45pm, take another familiar trip to Hereford on Saturday and, finally, Telford next Monday.