Never-say-die Avro

FOOTBALL:

HOLDERS Avro are through to the last four of the Manchester FA Challenge Trophy — but they had to produce a great recovery to dispose of Curzon Ashton reserves.

The Manchester League Premier Division outfit trailed 2-0, but fought back to win 3-2 thanks to a Chris Howarth brace and a Phil Maloney effort.

In the same competition, Hollinwood, from Division One, went down to a 4-1 defeat at Chorltonians.

The club’s ‘A’ team enjoyed a 6-1 success at Smedley Rangers in the last 32 of the MCFA Amateur Cup, but the reserves bowed out after a 5-4 defeat at home to North Walkden.

In the Premier Division, Springhead displayed tremendous character to secure a 1-1 draw against mid-table rivals Wythenshawe Amateurs.

The local side came from a goal down and played 70 minutes with 10 men after ’keeper Dave Cullington was dismissed for handling the ball outside of the penalty area. Behind to a second-minute goal, Springhead created plenty of half chances, but were dealt a blow when Cullington saw red.

Centre-back Dale Jackman pulled on the gloves and was a virtual spectator as they went on to

dominate the second period. Springhead grabbed a deserved equaliser with 10 minutes to go when Matt Dell poked the ball home in a crowded penalty area.