Runcorn beaten as top of table tightens up

LEEK Town’s clash with Kidsgrove Athletic – scheduled for Friday night – was postponed, but there was plenty of other Evo-stik League Division West action.

Leaders Runcorn Linnets were beaten and Lancastrian rivals Atherton Collieries and Colne both hit four without reply on their travels.

Linnets lost 2-1 at Valerie Park to a now third-placed Prescot Cables side.

A terrific crowd of 743 saw a thriller in which Dan O’brien put the visitors in front after less than two minutes had elapsed on the clock.

But on 14 minutes, Linnets lost Freddie Potter to a straight red card for retaliation.

And then on 43 minutes, Michael Simpson also had an early shower to leave the visitors to play the entire second half with only ninemen and all-square after Chris Almond converted the resulting penalty.

They held out until 11 minutes from time when Mike Monaghan won it for Cables.

Atherton’s four-goal haul came at Parkside against a now thirdbottom Kendal Town.

Colne’s four without reply came at Market Drayton Town, although it was 0-0 at the break.

Mossley AFC are fourth but were held to a 1-1 draw by neighbours Radcliffe FC at Seel Park.

Skelmersdale United moved off the bottom of the table after picking up a point from a 2-2 draw at fellow strugglers Chasetown, while Glossop North End dropped to the foot of the table after losing 2-0 at Ramsbottom United.

It finished goalless at Shaw View between Trafford and Colwyn

Bay, while Droylsden found their shooting boots as they hammered Widnes 6-2 at the Butcher’s Arms.

Three goals in the opening 15 minutes from Fabian Brandy with two and Sefton Gonzales gave the Bloods a great cushion.

Clitheroe and Newcastle Town shared a 1-1 draw at Shawbridge.

Max Hazeldine gave the home side a 68th minute lead that George Shaw levelled.