3 weeks Ago
Atherton Collieries moved nine points clear of the drop zone in NPL West with three games remaining after a controversial draw against Bootle at the weekend. The game was a slow burner, with little to report throughout the first half, with the exception of former Colls midfielder Jack Lenehan hitting the bar with a powerful free-kick for the visitors. Stripes captain Calen Gallagher-Allison broke the deadlock moments before the interval, scoring his seventh goal of the season, and first with his feet, from a Will Riding cross.
To be honest, it was against the run of play as the hosts had been at least a yard off the pace. Following the break, the Collieries controlled possession for the majority of the second half, but neither side truly threatened the goal. Bootle did find renewed focus for the game’s climax, and secured a stoppage-time equaliser through Tom Owens.
The substitute tapped home on the goalline from what was viewed by supporters of both persuasions as from an offside starting position. Sol Honor had made a wonder save and then the follow-up had been launched off the line immediately preceding it, but it was no more than the Bucks deserved. In the cold light of day, the stalemate probably suited both clubs given the other results of the sides near the congested drop zone.
Doing the mathematics, Michael Clegg’s team now need a point from their three remaining outings to secure their spot in the division for next season. Colls visit Newcastle Town on Saturday and then welcome Clitheroe on Easter Monday, both matches kicking off at 3pm..
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