CARL Macauley has now managed Witton in 10 Northern Premier League games this season, the same number as his predecessor Scott Dundas before his departure.

So, has the ex-Albion player improved things on the pitch?

In short, yes he has.

The Northwich outfit actually lost their first three matches following Macauley’s appointment, but have won five of the seven since.

Another of those was a creditable draw against title-hopefuls Warrington on Boxing Day, contributing to a total of 16 points.

Dundas was sacked at the end of September after collecting 13.

However half of those were on the board inside the campaign’s first 10 days.

A sequence of four defeats in the next half-dozen matches, along with a meek FA Cup exit at FC United of Manchester, proved to be his downfall.

The former Norton boss had been appointed in the summer following Witton’s relegation back to Division One North after three years in the top flight.

“While it is acknowledged it takes time for a new team to settle, the board believe that performances – if not results – should have been much better with a top-four playing budget,” read a club statement announcing his departure.

Witton rose to 12th in the table after a 2-0 win against Radcliffe on Saturday, one place lower than they were when Dundas left Wincham Park.

However their current sequence of three league wins is the longest since March 2014.

Macauley’s side have scored fewer goals than Dundas’ side, but their defensive record is better.

In an interview with the Guardian before Christmas, the former Marine manager said another quality – one that’s harder to measure – was most important in his side’s improvement.

“The group’s spirit is stronger,” he said.

“There wasn’t much of that when I arrived, but with every session the lads have more of an understanding of what we want them to do in certain areas of the pitch.

“When you’re trying to instil confidence in a squad, then the next game is the most important one.

“That’s where you put your focus.”

And Albion turn their attention to the Integro Doodson League Cup on Tuesday, when Bamber Bridge – opponents who brought Dundas’ brief reign to an end with a 4-2 league victory in Northwich less than four months ago – visit for a second-round tie, kick off 7.45pm.

If they can beat Glossop North End at home next weekend, then Macauley will have achieved something – four straight league wins – no Albion manager has since Brian Pritchard in 2013.