Chester FC's task to survive became even tougher last night when one of their relegation rivals returned to winning ways.

Fourth-from-bottom Solihull Moors' 2-0 victory at home to Bromley means they moved eight points clear of the second-from-Blues and level with the two teams directly above the drop spots - Hartlepool United and Barrow AFC.

It ended Solihull's four-game winless run but, more tellingly, it was their fifth success in 11 league matches since the start of January.

Moors invested heavily in their squad during the month - and that decision is beginning to pay off.

Before their New Year's Day triumph at home to Maidenhead United, Solihull were bottom on 20 points.

But since then they have taken 19 points from a possible 33 to move above Torquay United (who have taken 11 points over the same period of time), Chester (who have taken 10) and Guiseley (who have taken five).

Moors are now setting their sights on Barrow and Hartlepool, who meet tonight at Holker Street.

But, at one stage today, Pools seemed set to face even bigger problems as it was reported that the proposed takeover of the troubled club was on the verge of collapse.

The Hartlepool Mail stated that north-east businessman Raj Singh had failed to agree heads of terms for the sale of the club with its current owner.

That spelled bad news as the Hartlepool United Supporters' Trust released a statement last week warning that 'administration remains a very real possibility unless a sale goes through in the very near future'.

But now the Hartlepool Mail are reporting the takeover is back on and could be completed in two days.

The Singh-led consortium, which also includes Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling, had been trying to get a deal done before tomorrow (Thursday) due to a deadline that would enable the club's transfer embargo to be lifted.

Tomorrow is the final day National League clubs can sign players this season.