AS FAR as Wharfedale coach Jon Feeley is concerned, their 22-21 home to leaders Richmond on Saturday proved that they have what it takes to stay in National League One.

Trailing 22-7 after 61 minutes and playing uphill, the relegation-threatened Greens mounted a stirring final assault on the Surrey visitors that brought them two converted tries and almost victory and four, if not five, precious league points.

As it was, the losing bonus point narrowed the gap between themselves and Hull Ionians (in the lowest position of safety) from ten to nine points with four matches left.

But Feeley, who is nowhere near throwing in the towel, said: "I was exceptionally proud of how we performed against the likely league winning team because we proved that we are capable of competing with the best in this league and have the fight to stay here.

"They were very efficient with a physical and effective game-plan but were calling for the final whistle for the last ten minutes as they struggled to contain our attack.

"The manner in which we fought back was impressive and I am disappointed for the boys that we were left a point short because I felt that they deserved so much more.

"Richmond were very worried at the end, and if we play like that at Plymouth Albion on Saturday then we can definitely win.

"This match showed a lot about our character, and Richmond were lucky to come away with a one-point win.

"I am also very disappointed with the referee's interpretation of the ruck."

Feeley added: "Identifying space is what we have focused on in the training week and we are now showing it in games.

"I thought Woody (Phil Woodhead) was a constant threat and love watching him play when he is running at the fringes and getting in behind the defensive line.

"It allows our runners to have the greatest impact as Ali (Wade), Cameron (Hudson) and Beeso (Matt Beesley) consistently did.

"Cameron, who ran a great line for his try in the second half, Phil, who had an excellent game with his energy, and Matt, with his carries, were a threat throughout the match."

Plymouth Albion are fifth, and Feeley said: "We will be going there with a clear aim."

Albion lost 52-13 at third-placed Ampthill last Saturday, but Plymouth announced on Friday, March 25 that they had gone into administration after struggling to raise enough money to clear long-standing debts, and it is not clear how that will affect their line-up this weekend.

After almost entering administration last year, being saved by a £250,000 cash injection from local businesses, they now need to sell to a new investor to keep going.