THE. post Christmas freeze put paid to Runcorn's opportunity to build on their excellent victory against Burscough on Boxing day.

The rapid midweek snowfall completely wiped out Saturday's Unibond League programme including the Linnets visit to Hyde United.

This leaves Runcorn with an unprecedented eight league matches requiring rearranged dates.

On Boxing Day the Linnets were able to exact revenge against Burscough for the defeat at the begining of the season which resulted in an unusually early exit from the FA Cup.

Runcorn completely dominated the game to emerge worthy victors. It must have been particularly pleasing for player/manager Liam Watson for his players to produce such a positive performance after a disappointing display in the previous game at Blyth.

From the start of the game Runcorn moved forward in search of goals and it was promising young full back David Ness, who opened the scoring after eight minutes - his first goal of the season. He is now attracting interest from a variety of clubs.

Runcorn had plenty of opportunities to increase their lead with the midfield trio working particularly effectively but it was the defence that was again impressive with Neil Whalley putting in another tremendous performance at sweeper. Whalley was ably supported by the outstanding centre back pairing of Paul McNally and Peter Ellis.

Injuries to goal-scorer Ness and the unlucky Mike Moseley required some readjustment to the team after half-time. David Nolan slotted in to Ness' full back role with Danny Salt replacing him in midfield and John McAllister came on for Moseley.

It was left to player/manager Watson to secure the points for Runcorn eight minutes from time with a superbly taken goal. Latching on to a through ball from David Robinson, Watson unleashed a tremendous volley from the edge of the area that flew into the net.

Runcorn look to make progress in the Unibond Cup Competition tonight (Wednesday) against Trafford at Canal Street, kick-off 7.30pm. This will be followed on Saturday with an important league match against Spennymoor United, kick-off 3pm.