Runcorn Linnets were made to work hard for a second victory of pre-season as they were limited to a one-goal margin at Ashton Town. Linnets had to wait until beyond halfway in the second half of a largely uneventful contest to edge in front. A surging run by the triallist No.6, who has featured prominently in all four warm-up matches so far, was climaxed by a confident finish. Two former Linnets, Adam Jones and Chris Lomax featured for the North West Counties League Division

Dec McLoughlin equalises from the soot in the 29th minute. Pictures by Ben Jackson. After a heavy defeat and comfortable victory in their first two friendlies, Runcorn Linnets completed a full set of results by taking a well-earned 1-1 draw in the third at Marine Travel Arena. Having fallen behind in only the fourth minute to opponents from two steps higher, Runcorn recovered well - equalising from the penalty spot before the half hour and matching their National League North

Runcorn Linnets will start the new season as we finished the last with only the ve ue changing as we prepare to entertain Stalybridge Celtic in our Pitching In Northern Premier League West opener. It is a quick reunion with the club, which we met in a Play-off semi-final at Bower Fold back in April. Chances of meeting Celtic first up were increased as there will be only three league games played on Saturday, August 8th due to FA Cup commitments and just six opponents were pos