Second-half show of strength sees Runcorn to victory at Euxton

Runcorn Linnets posted a first pre-season win at the second attempt when dispatching North West Counties League Premier Division hosts Euxton Villa 3-0.

An experimental starting line-up, dominated by trialists, laid the foundation as a rare goal from vice-captain and longest-serving player Peter Wylie (29 minutes) sent Linnets into a half-time lead.

Substitutions at and after the break took Runcorn much closer to full strength, enabling complete control as chances began to flow.

Dec McLoughlin particularly impressed after his midfield introduction.

He doubled the visiting lead after 70 minutes by converting a left-wing cross by Elliot Morris with a far-post header.

Teenage ace Noah Roberts, having been denied by the Euxton 'keeper from a one-on-one opening, fired home a superb third from outside the area three minutes from time.

The bottom-corner goal came from outside the box, on the rebound after McLoughlin's initial shot had been intercepted.

Runcorn continue their warm-up campaign on Saturday at National League North side Marine, the highest ranked of their warm-up opponents. Kick off is at 3pm.