Runcorn Linnets 6 Barnoldswick Town 2

BARNOLDSWICK Town were hit for six for the second-successive game as they were defeated by the runaway league leaders.

This was an occasion when the quality of their opponents' performance rather than their own inadequacies brought about their downfall.

Stewart Airdrie's men worked hard across the 90 minutes but were undone once the Linnets stepped up their game in the second half.

Barnoldswick started in a lively fashion, with Keiron Lee and in particular Joel Melia, making their presence felt as they teased the home defence.

Mark Threlfall went close with a lob after outmuscling defender Mike White, while Chris Lomax had a shot cleared off the line at the other end

The Barnoldswick defence stood up well to increasing pressure and a last-gasp tackle halted Lomax after he had beaten three defenders.

Just before half-time, the deadlock was broken with a fortunate goal. Franny Smith charging down a clearance that flew in the top corner of the Barnoldswick net

Town suffered another blow before the break when Warren Bellew's corner was turned on by Lomax for Smith to score.

Linnets continued where they left off and added a third goal early in the second half. Matt Atherton's cross was turned home by Martin Crowder.

Town were certainly not throwing in the towel. Melia forced goalkeeper Richie Mottram to make a fingertip save from a long-range strike.

It was full back Crowder who made it 4-0 when he slotted his second goal.

The battling Town side opened their account when Martin Broderick thundered a free kick past the despairing dive of Mottram.

Linnets responded with their fifth goal. Matt Atherton chested the ball down and volleyed into the net.

Mike Burke entered the fray, replacing River Humphreys, and within seconds the Linnets had their fifth goal - after some divine skill from Matt Atherton, who chested, turned and volleyed in one movement, giving the visiting 'keeper no chance.

Smith completed his hat-trick when he turned the ball home at the near post before Town's persistence was rewarded with a second goal.

The impressive Melia beat goalkeeper Mottram with a clever flick header.