Seven-goal thriller

Ryan Brooke (left) celebrates his goal againt stockport with Chris Rowney (right) ATHLETIC had a dramatic 4-3 victory over Stockport County at Chapel Road in the North-West Conference of the Puma Youth Alliance.

Athletic were 1-0 down at half-time, established a 4-1 lead midway through the second period, yet were clinging on to a slender one-goal advantage at the finish.

Athletic, playing against the wind in the first half, held out until Danny Rowe scored in stoppage time.

Coach Tony Philliskirk’s side blitzed Stockport with four goals in the first 20 minutes of the second period.

Nathan Kilcourse set up Chris Rowney for the equaliser, Ryan Brooke gave Athletic the lead with a brave header and Liam Dawson – playing his first game since December because of injury – and Scott Hogan added further goals.

After three substitutions, Athletic lost their shape and goals from Sam Barnes and Tom Fisher cut the deficit to 4-3 to ensure an anxious last five minutes.

Schoolboy Connor Hughes, who was making only his second appearance, played well out wide for Athletic.