Runcorn Town 0-1 Atherton Collieries

IT wasn’t spectacular and it wasn’t pretty, but Atherton Collieries have once again got the job done – claiming another higher-level scalp in the process to book their place in the Men United Cup final.

The difference was one individual bit of quality from the ever-lively Ben Hardcastle, just minutes into the second half, as Colls finally broke down the resilient Runcorn defence for the right-midfielder to smash past Town’s stand-in keeper.

But it could have been a completely different story if it wasn’t for Danny Taberner between the sticks.

The goalkeeper made three improbable stops within a minute of each other during the second half; the second two being arguably the greatest double save you will see all year.

It says something about Colls that they are coming into crunch matches, such as this Men United Cup semi-final, as the favourites against teams from higher divisions.

Mark Battersby was denied his landmark 50th goal of the season in the game’s first real chance on the 17th minute mark but Chris Lester was perfectly placed on the line to deny the goal.

Town’s only chance of the first half came when Jack Irlam burst down the right-hand side, but Rob Swanton expertly got his body in the way of the shot, as he provided the first of many crucial challenges throughout the afternoon, ensuring that Runcorn had little joy down that flank.

Hardcastle who broke the headlock just four minutes into the second half. After ambling through parts of the first half, the Colls we have come to admire through this season showed as Hardcastle picked up the ball on the wing, cut inside and fired low into the near corner, leaving helpless stand-in keeper Danny Toone flat-footed.

The Crazy Gang celebrated and Colls were revitalised.

Colls could have extended their lead but for bobbles on the pitch affected their shots.

So, it’s not a date at Wembley, but it is a date in Ashton-under-Lyne for Colls. The Men United Cup final at Curzon Ashton’s Tameside Stadium awaits, with Glossop North End or Bootle the opponents.

In midweek Colls inched a step closer to promotion with a fine come from behind 4-1 home victory over AFC Darwen. Paul Coote gave the East Lancashire outfit a deserved half time lead but Colls played some top notch football after break.

Mark Battersby made it 49 goals for the campaign with a hat-trick which included a brace of penalties. Gareth Peet sewed it up in injury time. With 10 games remaining four points are needed for promotion and 16 points needed for a first Championship since 1987.

On Saturday Colls host Litherland Remyca in a Reusch Cup (Division One Trophy) Semi-Final, kick-off 3pm. This is followed by league outings at Daisy Hill on Monday and AFC Darwen on Wednesday. Both KO 7.45pm