Hammers are closing in on a play-off place (Getty)

Lakeside Hammers remain on course to make the Elite League play-offs after 42-51 win at Ipswich Witches.

Hammers moved to within a point of league leaders Poole Pirates thanks to 10 heat wins and 13 points from both Adam Shields and Ricky Kling.

"We weren't at our best, but did enough to get the points," team boss Jon Cook told the Hammers' website.

The Essex side are chasing their first ever spot in the Elite League play-offs since joining it in 2004.

The Hammers face a crucial week ahead of them when they face the three other teams currently in the play-off positions.

Our loyal fans deserve a home tie in the play-off semi's and that is what we will be looking to achieve Hammers boss Jon Cook

They begin with a home tie with fourth-placed Eastbourne Eagles on Monday 4 August followed by an away trip to leaders Poole 48 hours later.

They then return to the Arena-Essex Raceway on Friday when they host Swindon Robins.

Cook promised they will be going all-out for that important top-four spot.

"All the lads are really up for next week.

"Our loyal fans deserve a home tie in the play-off semis and that is what we will be looking to achieve," he said.