Atherton LR 1 Winsford United 2

North West Counties League Division One

Tuesday, February 11

THIS was a game that Gary Thomas described as the toughest test so far, but also the best performance by the Blues since his arrival as manager.

Goalkeeper Andy Robertson was in sparkling form and his first minute save from Steve Brennan was right out of the top drawer.

The pitch cut up very badly as Winsford found it difficult to make their way down the middle and they soon adopted their host's policy of keeping it wide out on the wings.

This strategy led to the opening goal on 40 minutes when Dave Heywood's left wing cross evaded Dave Cummins in the Atherton goal and Les Miranda dived low to put the ball home from close range.

A minute into the second half and the Blues went two in front with what was possibly the best goal of the season so far. Dave Heywood's free kick from 25 yards was perfectly placed and curved and dipped just under the bar to give Cummins no chance.

Atherton hit back and levelled the scores in the 70th minute when Adam Lucas's right wing cross found Gary Andrews and his perfectly placed shot gave Robertson no chance.

Winsford's goal was under siege for most of the remaining 20 minutes but they held out in an important relegation six-pointer.

Winsford: Robertson, Dewar, Morris (Kelly 45), Wilson, Attuquayefio (Morgan 89), Walker, Duckworth, Cavanagh, Miranda, Lamb, Heywood. Sub not used: Thomas. Attendance: 90. Star man: Dave Heywood.