Star man Beckett bags derby treble

PAUL Stevenson (centre) tries to lead a Springhead fightback against Royton Town.

FOOTBALL:

ROYTON Town earned a 3-1 win at Springhead on derby day in the Bridgewater Office Supplies Manchester League Premier Division thanks to an Alan Beckett hat-trick.

Town took the lead after 14 minutes when Beckett’s glancing header found the net, from Carl Dean’s pinpoint free-kick.

Beckett was causing the home defence all sorts of problems with his runs, and he was brought down in the area after 36 minutes. He slotted the ball away with ease.

Springhead were unlucky not to claim a goal back late on in the half when Mark Hopwood managed to hit both posts with a shot from six yards..

The hosts came out with all guns blazing at the start of the second-half and after a full pitch flowing movement of play, Richard Bennett found the net from close range to give them hope.

Town continued to create chances. It was no surprise when Beckett claimed his first Town treble after 74 minutes: Moss played him through and he easily outpaced the home defence to score.

Elsewhere title hopefuls Avro were held to a 3-3 draw at Dukinfield Town.

Hollinwood suffered a 3-1 defeat at East Manchester.