WORCESTER City have given a cautious welcome to the newly-formed Football Alliance, which will start in the 2004-05 season.

Two new leagues, which will in effect form a Second Division of the Nationwide Conference, have finally been given the go-ahead following months of wrangling.

The two regional divisions of 24 clubs each will be formed from the leading clubs in the Dr Martens, Ryman and Unibond Leagues -- so naturally City will expect to be involved.

But with the number of promotion places from the new leagues to the Conference yet to be ratified, City boss John Barton is not convinced the club will be any better off than before.

One of the main criticisms of the system of three feeder leagues is that there's only one promotion place up for grabs in each -- and in the Dr Martens League the title race is as good as over already with Tamworth 12 points clear of the field.

Two up from each league seems the logical option, but Barton said: "Initial discussions would seem to say there might be a total of two promotion places, and if that is the case it doesn't make it any better."

But City may benefit through their geographical location, which will almost certainly see them placed in the northern division.

Having to go to places like Gateshead and Blyth will be tempered by the fact that the standard of competition may not be as high as in the southern division, with the Unibond regarded by some as weaker than the Dr Martens and Ryman leagues.

Barton added: "Burton Albion, who switched to the Unibond League a couple of years ago and won it, would agree that the top end of the competition is fairly strong, but as a league it is inferior to what the Dr Martens League provides. I think if you look at it nationally, the better resourced clubs will be those down in the South."

City are, of course, hoping not to have to worry about the new leagues, as if they win the Dr Martens title next season they'll go straight into the Conference proper. Let's hope that happens.

n City are once again offering discounts to fans who buy season tickets before the end of the campaign.

Ground season tickets cost £130 for adults and £70 for senior citizens and juniors if bought before April 27 - a saving of £20 on the regular price. Discounted stand prices are £150 for adults and £90 for concessions, also a £20 saving.

Matchday admission prices will be held at £8 (£5 concessions) for the ground and £9 (£6 concessions) for the main stand.

Season tickets are on sale now from the club offices, open from 10am-5pm Monday to Friday, 7-9pm on Fridays and on first team matchdays.

n City play their final PASE League match today against Loughborough at County Sports FC, Claines Lane (2pm).