Danger remains after cup victory
BURSCOUGH’S fight to stave off relegation took a blow on Saturday as they were defeated 3-2 by AFC Liverpool, but the Linnets continued their excellent cup form in midweek.
Dave Sutton’s side were fired into the last four of the Macron Cup after goals from Chad Whyte and Terry Cummings gave them an impressive 2-1 win over Northwich Victoria.
An error in Burscough’s defence allowed Victoria back into the game with just over 20 minutes remaining, but despite holding out for the victory, Sutton will be aware his side must now transfer their knockout football into the league if they are to avoid the ignominy of successive relegations.
Whyte continued his scintillating form as the forward twice put Linnets into the lead against AFC Liverpool last weekend, but after being pegged back on both occasions, Callum Edgar struck just minutes into the second period to give the visitors a crucial victory.
The loss may well have serious repercussions for Dave Sutton’s men.
They went into the clash nine points clear of Liverpool - who are third from bottom of the table - and seven points clear of the drop-zone entirely.
However, with AFC winning at Victoria Park and Maine Road defeating Barnoldswick Town, Burscough once more find themselves in danger with ten fixtures remaining.
Their cause is further complicated by the fact every side in the bottom half of the table have played less games.
With Barnton and AFC Darwen stranded in the bottom four, only two other sides will face the drop this season - and the danger has not yet been averted for Linnets.
Burscough travel to Congleton - who are just five points above them - on Saturday afternoon knowing a victory could be crucial in their fight to avoid consecutive relegations.
A strong end to the month would please Sutton, whose side then face a bumper April fixture list as they turn out eight times, with six away from home.