Season’s hard work reaps dividend for Free Trade

FREE Trade Tavern forged a 2-0 win against Catholic Club to lift the Rochdale and District Sunday League’s Sun Chemical Trophy.

In what remained a goalless half, both sides created chances yet it was Catholic Club who came closest to taking the lead, but for a fantastic save by Tavern keeper Tom Hill.

The opener came 15 minutes after the restart when Elliot Keane’s cross was met by Martin Shaw, to give Free Trade the upper hand. Adam Flaherty then tucked home Trade’s second to seal their cup triumph.

Antony Fitton, Tavern manager said: “We were on top of the game until the very end. All credit to the Catholic Club lads who put in 100 per cent.

“Congratulations to my lads who have given their all this season, and come away with the spoils, well deserved.

“A big thank you to all of our sponsors including The Free Trade Public House for everything they have done for us this season, we couldn’t have done it without their help”.

Middleton Town won 4-1 against Avenue, in an enthralling promotion battle in the Sun Chemical Division One.

Town’s spectacular win sees them clinch promotion after a fantastic year of football.

Tom Rothwell got the opener for Middleton but Avenue were quick to get the equaliser.

The match appeared to be going into the interval at 1-1 but Town were resilient when Levi Morris rocketed them in-front.

After half-time, Jordan Burton added to Town’s lead and it was the as if the fixture had begun to escape from Avenue’s grasp. Jordan Burton’s second, a long-distance free-kick, sealed Town’s win and their promotion to the Newbold Tyres Premier Division.

Chris Petcu of Middleton Town said: “Never been prouder of my lads; the long, tough season has paid off!

“Avenue have been brilliant this season and have truly battled hard. Referee James Sharples had a great game as it was not an easy encounter to referee between local rivals battling for promotion!”