Last-minute heartbreak as Blues' fine run ends

LEEK TOWN's five-game unbeaten run came to an end in unfortunate circumstances as a last-minute goal saw them lose 1-0 at Guiseley in the Northern Premier League's top division.

- Phil Sherwin

The home side almost went ahead in the first minute when Amir Berchil struck the crossbar and soon afterwards Will Longbottom had a goal ruled out for offside.

The Blues hit back with Adam Porter having a shot tipped round the post by Joe Cracknell.

In the second half, Leek's Tunde Owalobi had a shot deflected wide but howling wind and rain ruined any chance of good football being played.

As the game seemed destined to be a goalless draw Guiseley snatched the points in the final minute.

Jordan Thewlis did well on the wing to beat a defender then send a cross into the middle where Longbottom stuck a leg out to divert the ball into the net from close range.

In the West Division injury-hit STAFFORD RANGERS suffered their fourth league defeat in five games in going down 3-2 at home to Atherton Collieries.

Striker Dan Cockerline limped off after just five minutes and Atherton went in front in the 16th.

Remi Efunnaga laid the ball off for Kielen Adams to cut in from the right and fire a shot into the far corner.

Scott Wara headed wide from a corner for the Boro but Atherton increased their lead in the 36th minute.

Jav Swaby-Neavin showed great control and beat three defenders in the box before squaring it to Harry Showman and he steered it through 'keeper Zack Noble's legs.

Rangers pulled a goal back on the stroke of halftime when a left-wing cross by Ben O'Hanlon was headed home by Dylan Scott.

Stafford were rocked in the 51st minute when Scott Wara and Noble clashed heads and both were subbed off after a six-minute delay.

Usual 'keeper Arron Davies had missed the game through injury so there was no sub 'keeper on the bench and striker Kaiman Anderson, right, was the one to take over in goal.

James McQuilkin hit the post for Rangers but Atherton made it 3-1 in the 57th minute.