Runcorn 3 Blyth Spartans 0

RUNCORN returned to league action at the weekend after the emotional scenes on Tuesday evening when Liam Watson secured FA Cup victory against Marine with a spectacular goal in the final minute of extra time.

Victory was secured on Saturday with two goals in two minutes from manager Mark Carter and Watson midway through the second half following an opening goal from Ian Brunskill.

Dave Robinson, a close season signing from Ashton United, made his much awaited league debut for Runcorn having recovered from a foot injury sustained during pre-season.

In an evenly matched first half, Runcorn had the better of the chances. Mike Smith went close to opening the scoring in the 30th minute, holding off two challenges before hitting a shot which was destined for the top corner. Terry Burke in the Blyth goal made a fine save.

Burke was, however, powerless to prevent Brunskill scoring six minutes later. Taking a free kick near the left touchline, Brunskill floated the ball over the keeper and into the top corner for his first goal for Runcorn.

Smith nearly made it two shortly afterwards but his shot just cleared the bar.

The first half was marred by two serious injuries.

Firstly, Blyth's Glen Robson was carried off with an ankle injury and then David Ness was stretchered off with a head injury.

The game was delayed for nearly ten minutes whilst these two incidents were dealt with.

Ness was later able to make a full recovery.

The second-half started brightly with Ness's replacement Colin Rose working hard together with Brunskill in midfield as Runcorn tried to extend their lead.

They got their reward in the 60th minute when Carter hit a fine volley from just inside the area after good work on the left by Smith.

A minute later the points were secure when Watson, lurking on the far side of the penalty area, confidently slotted the ball home from a tight angle.

Lee Griffiths came on as substitute for Garry Burke on the 72 minutes and was immediately involved in a swift counter attack which culminated in a dangerous cross from Watson which just evaded the incoming Smith.

Runcorn had further chances to extend their lead with mom Dave Nolan and Watson always in the thick of the action.

Runcorn: Acton, Salt, Ness, (Rose, 44), Nolan, Burke, (Griffiths, 72), Ruffer, Brunskill, Smith, Robinson, Carter, (McDonald, 82), Watson.

Runcorn played host to Winsford Utd last night (Tuesday) and visit Hayes on Saturday in the FA Cup First Round Proper. Runcorn's youth team play host to Rylands this Sunday, 11am Kick Off.

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