MIDDLEWICH Town must make the most of their fine form, according to assistant manager Mike Alcock.

The Witches ran in eight goals without reply against Linotype at the weekend, taking to 15 the number they have scored without reply since the start of the month.

“We’ve hit a purple patch,” said Alcock.

“Everything just clicked in the second half and Linotype were just in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Town’s success leaves them seven points clear at the top of the table after winning eight of their past 10 league matches – a run of form that has seen them score 31 goals.

Mike Brandon and Ryan Broadhead bagged a brace apiece at the weekend, Louis Bentley, Iain Stanton, Dave Tasker and an own goal accounting for the others.

The former’s return to scoring form could be crucial.

“I saw before the game that he was up for it,” said Alcock.

“Mike can be a moody player but when he is on song there are few defenders at this level that can stop him. Hopefully this is the start of a scoring run now.”

Brandon’s timing could not be better with Town due to turn their attention to the Cheshire FA Amateur Cup on Saturday when Manchester League outfit Old Altrinchamians visit.

Alcock admits that the title of county best is still one that he and manager Terry Murphy want most.

“We’ve never won it,” he said.

“Last year was perhaps our best attempt when we lost to the eventual winners but I think we’re an even stronger proposition this time around.

“We’ve had them watched and know what to expect.”

Iain Stanton (work) will be the Witches only absentee at Seddon Street, kick off 2pm, where midfield enforcer Craig Stevens will hope to make his return from injury.