DAVISON DOUBLE THE ONLY HIGHLIGHT

Sadly it was with reference to United's record defeat because it was on the cards it would be beaten as the game drew to a close.

United, despite injuries and one or two departures, put out what looked a strong starting eleven. Many of those starting the game have been involved all season when the club's fortunes were much better. The afternoon started well too when after a confident opening period the Whites took the lead.

Matt Cotton turned and struck a low drive from distance that went in off the post.

This inspired the home side to step up their game dramatically and they soon dominated in terms of possession and score-line. Aided by two questionable penalties and a wicked bounce that made the ball elude keeper Mike Emery's dive Albion led at the break 5-1.

As the rain came down the Whites battled but were bereft of confidence and energy. The home side made it six after 54 minutes and when Casey Stewart scored twice in the 65th and 66th minutes to make it 8-1 the possibility of a record defeat looked almost a certainty.

Bizarrely United suddenly then created chances and Ben Davison notched two well-taken goals in the 82nd and 83rd minutes. More chances followed and suddenly the losing margin looked like it could be reduced even more. It wasn't to be though but at least the Whites had seen out the last quarter of the game without shipping more goals.

This was the last game of the season and the less said about the last ten games or so the better. In fact 2019 has been a grim period in terms of results. However points were in the bag before Xmas and the club were untroubled by relegation thoughts the whole season. In a very tough league this is no mean feat.

New manager Steve Housham will have a job on his hands though and it will be hoped retained players and new faces can bring United some better fortunes in 2019-20.