RUNCORN FC Halton extended their unbeaten run to five games - but should have come away with all three points, writes Debbie Quaile.

The Linnets had the better chances, played composed football and always looked the more likely team to win.

Steve Carragher, and Kevin Leadbetter both went close early on while Accrington's best chance of the half fell to former Linnets player David Robinson but his shot went high over the bar.

Both Gary Williams for Accrington and Leadbetter went close to opening the scoring as the half drew to a close.

It was the away team who continued to press forward in the second half and Leadbetter again shot just over the bar.

Then it was Alan Cowley's turn. McNeil was sent away down the right wing with another excellent long pass from Gamble. He picked out Cowley at the far post but his shot sailed over the bar.

Then Ian Baines and Carragher created another opportunity for Cowley but this time the Accrington defence were alert to the danger and blocked his shot.

Tony McMillan in the Runcorn FC Halton goal did well to save from Accrington sub Andy Proctor but he was powerless to prevent Lee Buggie from opening the scoring after 81 minutes.

Jonathan Smith flicked on a Barrie Hart free kick and Buggie nipped in to score from close range.

Their lead lasted just two minutes before Carragher replied for Runcorn FC Halton.

Liam Watson's corner from the right was glanced across goal by Chris Price and Carragher forced the ball into the net from close range.

It was no more than the Linnets deserved and they nearly snatched the winner in the last minute but McNeil appeared to be impeded as he advanced on goal from Watson's pass.

The final home game of the season at Halton Stadium is Runcorn FC Halton v Bishop Auckland on Saturday, April 27, kick off 3pm.