Double setback for local sides

THERE was double disapppointment for local sides in division two of the Lancashire and Cheshire League.

AFC Oldham 2005 were beaten 4-2 at second-placed New East Manchester FC, while Santos AFC went down 7–3 at Manchester Rovers.

Santos’ problems began before kick-off when a car containing four players broke down on the motorway, which meant they had to start with nine men.

But despite having to rejig team plans, they went in front when Russell Clarke converted a cross from Chris Sarsfield.

New Manchester stormed back to open up a 4-1 lead only for Santos, who had 11 players on the field 10 minutes before half-time, to reduce the deficit through Clarke again.

He went on to miss a one-one-one with the ’keeper — so too did Danny Hicks — but then Santos had a player sent off.

Rovers added a fifth, but the visitors would not give up and Clarke completed his second hat-trick of the season.

But the numerical advantage finally took its toll and Rovers scored two late goals.

Oldham Victoria reserves are well-placed in the division ‘C’ title race.

They are three adrift of Old Stretfordians thirds, with a game in hand.

Vics impressed in their latest league clash, sweeping aside Denton West End Youth 4-0, but AFC Oldham reserves were beaten 7-3 by the table-toppers.

Division two: New East Manchester FC 4, AFC Oldham 2005 2; Manchester Rovers 7, Santos FC 3.

Division ‘C’: AFC Oldham 2005 Res 2, Old Stretfordians 3rds 7; Denton West End Youth 0, Oldham Victoria Res 4.