Winterfield lost out in their clash at Longniddry today, leaving them far enough adrift in the Div 1 table that their relegation at the end of this season is now assured. The newly promoted team fought bravely all term, and indeed their 1st Div status seemed reasonably secure for a large part of the season – until Tantallon woke up to their dire situation in January, since which time they have recorded 4 wins. The challenge eventually became just too much for the Winterfield side, who have lost all five of their league matches since the turn of the year. An untimely slip from the third place they enjoyed in mid-December.

Nevertheless it has been a positive adventure for Graham Davidson’s men, who should return to the lower flight next season with refreshed confidence.

Meanwhile Tantallon took full advantage of their home match with relegated Haddington, recording a 4-1 win.

Elsewhere Craigielaw defeated Gullane, and in so doing they knocked their opponents out of the title race with just one match remaining. The title will now be fought out by Musselburgh and Craigielaw. Both teams are at home on the final day (next Sunday), and Musselburgh know the title will be theirs if they can overcome Longniddry, whilst Craigielaw have the task of taking on Tantallon, the team that fought hard to the end to defeat them in January at North Berwick West Links.

But there’s a sub-text to that battle for the title. The two rival teams, Longniddry and Tantallon, are not left with nothing to play for. They currently occupy 4th and 5th places in the table, separated by just a point, and as things stand Longniddry look set to retain their place in Div 1, whilst Tantallon face a play-off with Musselburgh Old, for a place in Div 1 next season.

But should Tantallon squeeze a point out of Craigielaw, and Longniddry are unable to match that feat at Musselburgh, they could switch places.

Tantallon 4 Haddington 1
Longniddry 4 Winterfield 1
Craigielaw 3½ Gullane 1½