HIGH-FLYING Atherton Collieries claimed another big scalp on Saturday when they reached the semi-final of the Men United Cup (League Cup) for the first time since 2002 with a fine 2-0 away victory at inform NWCFL Premier Division side Colne.

The hosts started the game strongly and the Colls rearguard were made to defend resolutely to keep parity. Keeper Danny Taberner had a couple of saves to make but the shots lacked power to cause any real trouble.

When Colls had possession it was surrendered too easily. However the storm was weathered and on 25 minutes Mark Battersby thought he had given Colls the lead when he powered a header against the crossbar.

Did it cross the line? The pocket of Colls fans behind the goal screamed for a goal but the assistant referee disagreed.

Colne had another chance but Taberner again saved from from Colne's leading goalscorer Danny Boyle.

The second half saw Colls raise their game.

They had the majority of the ball and the Colne defence were beginning to work overtime. The breakthrough was made on the hour when Mark Ayres slotted home at close range from Matty Boland's corner.

The lead was doubled 10 minutes later when Ayres turned provider with a cross that was turned into his own net by Jonathan Hodgkinson under pressure from debutant Iain Howard.

Colne responded and Jake Kenny brought Chris Anderson down in the box for a clear-cut penalty, but Taberner guessed correctly and palmed away Boyle's spot-kick.

Colls manager Michael Clegg, who has targeted promotion and a cup win as criteria for a successful season, said: “We felt confident coming into the game despite being in a league below Colne.

“This group has something special going for it which I’ve not really seen in my career.

"Everyone is buzzing with excitement but it is important to remember that we’ve won nothing yet and there is still work to be done.”

Colls visit Barnton in a NWCFL Division One Cup tie tomorrow (Friday), kick off 7.45pm and on Tuesday take on Evo-Stik Division One North side Clitheroe in the semi-final of the Lancashire FA Challenge Trophy at the LFA County Ground, Leyland (7.45pm).

The final will be played at Bolton Wanderers' Macron Stadium against either Chorley or Holker Old Boys.