AFC EMLEY have secured their Northern Counties East League status ahead of their final Division I match at Lincoln Moorlands on Saturday.

Nicky Bramald and Ray Dennis's side can finish no lower their fourth from bottom of the 17-team section at the end of their inaugural season after moving up from the lower-level West Yorkshire League.

And thoughts are already turning to next season.

The village club have decided to disband their current Under 19 team and have entered a Reserve side in next season's Lancit Haulage Lancashire League.

That means they will face Wakefield (formerly Emley) in the Eastern Division, which also includes the likes of Guiseley, Farsley Celtic, Bradford Park Avenue and the two Ossett clubs, Town and Albion.

Secretary Richard Poulain said: "We have a large stock of players that are too old for the Under 19s, so by creating a reserve side it will enable us to have a look at new players and give current players, returning from injury, a chance to play competitively.

"Neither the UniBond nor Northern Counties East Leagues have reserve divisions, so a lot of Yorkshire clubs have gone down the Lancashire route."

He added: "But what we are really looking for now is a quality reserve team manager, someone who can work within our club and offer good experience for the lads."

Applicants should submit their applications in writing to: Richard Poulain, 14 Cheviot Avenue, Meltham, Huddersfield, HD9 4DW.