ALSAGER striker Ben Biddulph was the goal hero on Saturday as he hit a last-minute winner in a dramatic league clash.

Alsager were 2-0 up at home to Castleton Gabriels before the away side drew level with two second half goals in 14 minutes.

The game looked destined for a draw until substitute Biddulph pounced in the 89th minute to make it 3-2.

Alsager beat Castleton away earlier in the season, and almost took the lead on Saturday when John Bentley fired inches wide on 16 minutes with the keeper beaten.

Castleton were playing some neat football, but missed some golden chances in the 21st and 24th minutes, the first being an open goal.

Alsager made them pay for their poor finishing when striker Gareth Rowe put the home side ahead on 25 minutes, pouncing on a header back to the Castleton keeper to fire home.

Alsager increased their lead early in the second half when winger Chris Nicklin was brought down in the box after a good move between him and Rowe.

Captain Kenny Lawton scored from the spot, but Castleton fought back superbly to make it 2-2 with goals on 56 and 70 minutes.

A draw was on the cards when Biddulph avoided two tackles 40 yards out and played the ball wide to fellow striker Matt Melvin.

He knocked it back to Biddulph, who rounded the keeper to score.

Alsager take on Castleton again this Saturday in the second round of the League Cup.

Alsager reserves returned to winning ways with a 4-1 victory at Abbey Hulton.

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