23^rd April 2016, Runcorn Linnets FC v 1874 Northwich : 2-1 Sponsored by Left Side Ultras

MICHAEL White helped Linnets out of a tight spot with his eighth penalty of the season – more than any other North West Counties League player.

But Runcorn had to come from behind to nail their third win in four unbeaten meetings with their fellow Trust-run club.

Kieron Brislen's searching through ball paved the way as Freddie Potter got behind the visiting defence to be hauled down by Danny Thomas.

The central defender was shown a straight red, having already been cautioned – there were bookings for three other Northwich players, along with Runcorn's Freddie Potter.

White held his nerve to steer his shot low and true into the left corner, sending 1874 'keeper Greg Hall – a NWCL Premier Division title winner last season with Glossop North End – the wrong way.

With the fast and direct right wing play of Ryan Jackson causing real problems for Runcorn, the visitors had held the upper hand in the first half, deservedly leading through an 18th minute Neil Chappell goal.

The midfieldman had run clear to beat Dean Porter after striker Matthew Beadle had headed on. The home keeper kept Linnets into the game with a superb save when Jackson connected with Matthew Woolley's free-kick.

Just before the break, Freddie Potter went agonisingly close for Runcorn with a flying header, also at a set piece, that went just the wrong side of the right post.

This was the signal for a much-improved second half performance from the hosts and when 1874 failed to deal with a loose ball in their penalty area, Antony Hickey nipped in to lift Linnets' spirits with an assured finish past the helpless Hall.

The 'keeper held up Runcorn by keeping out a Potter effort but after White had put Linnets in front, there was a sense of renewed hope around the Millbank Linnets Stadium as news filtered through that Bootle were holding Colne at bay.

That was until, an 86th minute winner for the Lancastrians decreed that there would be no change in the overall title picture after Saturday's games - apart from the fact that after a home draw against relegation-threatened AFC Blackpool, outsiders Atherton Collieries had probably left themselves with too much to do.

Runcorn Linnets: Porter, Brislen, Atherton, Hardwick, White, Ellison (Cox 55), Smith (Simpson 83), Hamid, Potter, Hickey, Sherlock Subs (not used): Houghton, Jones, Kennerley,

1874 Northwich:Hall (GK), Connor, James, Mitchell, Thomas, Chappell (Riley 42, Brandon 86), Jackson, Matthew Woolley, Beadle, Edwards, Wellstead (Jack Woolley 87) Sub: (not used) Farnworth.

Attendance:456.

NB. The views expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily those of Runcorn Linnets FC or its Board.