IT will go down as another hectic week in the life of Atherton Collieries Football Club.

First up was a trip to Runcorn Town and after an even opening period Michael Clegg’s lads ant on the rampage. Mark Battersby got the first goal and James Kirby soon added to it with a brace header at the far post. Battersby got his second with a glancing header from a corner, Matty Grimshaw wrapped up the 4-0 triumph in injury time.

It was a clash between 2nd and 3rd in the NWCFL Premier Division at Colne FC.

Colls were exquisite in the first half and should have led by more than a Ben Hardcastle goal at the break. The hosts got into the game but then had two players dismissed.

Colls lost focus at this point and allowed an equalising goal. It was definitely a case of two points dropped rather than one gained.

AFC Blackpool visited Alder House fighting for their Premier lives and Colls needed a win to keep their flickering title hopes going.

Colls had a dream start when Jordan Cover lobbed the oncoming to score but Blackpool soon pulled a goal back. Colls missed enough chances to win numerous games and it came back to haunt them.

Blackpool got a penalty on 65 minutes and Grimshaw was dismissed.

The penalty was duly dispatched and the visitors were on the cusp of a valuable three points until Colls got their own penalty in injury time. Mark Ayres coolly slotted it home for a 2-2 draw.

The results make it increasingly unlikely Colls can win the title at first attempt but a place in the top three is within reach.

On Saturday Congleton Town visit Alder House in the final home game, 3pm.

Colls also have two cup finals on the horizon in this super season.