Quickfire double in shock win

FOOTBALL:

SUPERB Springhead blasted their way through to the last-eight of the Bridgewater Office Supplies Manchester League Gilgryst Cup with a 4-1 triumph at reigning Premier League champions Manchester Gregorians.

The visitors were ahead after just eight minutes when Dave Ashworth’s shot was not properly dealt with by the goalkeeper, who could only parry it into the net. Two minutes later they doubled the advantage courtesy of Dale Jackman’s curling free-kick.

The tie looked as good as over with 25 minutes on the clock when Mark Hopwood fed Richard Bennett, who slotted home at the second time of asking after his first effort was saved.

Stunned Gregorians had produced little in the way of attacking football but they did give themselves a

lifeline five minutes before the interval after Springhead failed to clear their lines.

The hosts threw men forward in the second period but were punished with 18 minutes remaining as Bennett turned provider, teeing up Scott Owen who fired home from the edge of the penalty area.

Royton Town also progressed courtesy of a 2-1 victory at Wythenshawe Amateurs.