Skipper Chris Stabb says the players do not need reminding that a great opportunity went begging in midweek but insists that the squad are capable of landing the UniBond Division One title.

The Celts were beaten at home by Matlock Town, who also have championship aspirations, on Tuesday. The defeat coincided with leaders Hyde United being held to a 2-2 draw at second-from-bottom Ossett Town.

The 2-1 reverse to Matlock saw the Derbyshire side replace the Celts in second spot and ended a long unbeaten run. It came after Lee Sinnott's men had put themselves on the verge of top spot following three away victories on the trot.

"We were disappointed on the night, but we have to think that we would have taken three wins from the four games in whatever sequence," said Stabb.

"It is a blow to lose any game, but we also dropped down a place. It ended a run of 14 games unbeaten and it was a sickener to concede in injury time of both halves. It was just one of those nights.

"We have to take it and pick ourselves up for the run-in. The lads are all positive and we are still in a position to push on for the title. It makes it harder to win it, but one defeat, however unfortunate, will not rule us out of the race.

"There are still eight games left for us. Hyde and Matlock only have seven, and I can't see any of the clubs winning all their remaining games so it's still definitely on. No team has pulled away, it is all very tight.

"There are no guarantees either. If we want to do it we will have to fight for every point. Matlock will fancy their chances after Tuesday, and though Hyde must still be favourites the result they got proves there are no easy games.

"All our remaining games will be tough. It doesn't matter if the teams are near the top or in the bottom half. Everything is very keen but that keeps it interesting. Mid-table sides still have something to play for.

"We have to concentrate on what we do and make sure we pick up maximum points. We have to forget what the other teams are doing. Easter will make or break the season for us. We play on Saturday, have the derby against Guiseley on the Bank Holiday Monday and then the final of the West Riding County Cup on the Wednesday - three vital games in five days. It is better to be there than looking at that enviously from the outside. They are all big games but that's because we still have so much to play for in such a short time."