WESTCLIFF could be handed a National Three London & SE lifeline by East Grinstead, who they visit in their final game of the season this weekend.

Westcliff will finish the campaign in the bottom three after winning just five of their 25 matches this term.

But financial uncertainty surrounding the future of the West Sussex club means they could apply to be demoted – a move which would see Westcliff avoid relegation.

That would result in Westcliff lining up in the same division as Southend, who have been relegated from National Two South, next season.

But a final decision is not expected to be made until mid-May and Westcliff’s first team manager Rick Compton insists the club will not be reading too much into the ongoing situation until that stage.

“There is a certain irony that we’re at East Grinstead this weekend with everything that’s going on,” said Compton.

“We are not really addressing it formally until there is some clarity but what is clear is that East Grinstead’s semi-professional squad are very much motivated to end the season in style, thereby making something of a statement.

“The game is also being openly billed as the last appearance of ‘The G Force’ but we’re going there in good spirits too.”

Westcliff saw off Gravesend 41-32 and will now be looking for another good performance against their hosts, who sit third in the standings.

Westcliff’s seconds, third and fourths will also be in action tomorrow in the Merit Table cup finals at their Gables base.

The day will see 18 finals taking place.