ACCRINGTON Stanley's inactivity yesterday did no harm to their title prospects in the UniBond League Premier Division.

A waterlogged pitch at Whitby left the Reds kicking their heels but, while their lead at the top was cut, they ended up in a healthier position.

Second placed Stalybridge Celtic's 1-0 win at Tameside neighbours Hyde United saw them cut Stanley's lead to six points, but going into the festive fixtures it was third placed Vauxhall Motors who were the side able to catch the Crown Ground outfit if they were to win their games in hand.

However, Motors' goalless draw at Burscough means that even if they were to win all four of their games in hand they would still be a point behind the Reds.

Stanley entertain 12th-place Gainsborough Trinity tomorrow afternoon, and manager John Coleman will be looking to take all three points and extend their lead at the top of the table.

Stanley will be selecting from a squad that will only be missing midfielder Mike Marsh, who is still battling to overcome a knee injury.

And there could be a home debut for winger Rory Prendergast, who was signed for £7,500 from Premier Division rivals Bradford Park Avenue just before Christmas.