WINSFORD’S winning sequence stopped at six matches on Monday, when they matched promotion-chasing Runcorn Linnets.

Jordan Johnson’s spectacular effort shortly before the break, which cancelled out goalkeeper Matthew Green’s unfortunate own goal, earned a deserve share of the spoils.

Blues, who had squeezed past Maine Road at the weekend, climb in to the North West Counties League Premier Division top 10 as a reward.

They conceded an early opener when Zach Aley’s long throw caused confusion between Green and Sam Parr, with the former inadvertently helping the ball over his own goal-line.

Linnets sensed a vulnerability in Winsford’s defence, and might have doubled their lead had Tom Hardwick not shot wildly over.

Lee Duckworth’s men had posed their guests few problems before restoring parity when Johnson, shooting first time from distance, looped a stunning effort over custodian Tom Hunt.

The hosts were better after the break, when Sam Howell teed up Harry Brazel for an attempt that was blocked by a defender.

John Bennett prompted Hunt to intervene, although Winsford were grateful to Green for a stunning fingertip save to deny ex-Blue Stuart Wellstead on 71 minutes.

They breathed a sigh of relief again when Michael Simpson’s header at a corner struck an upright.

Captain Kyle Riley was then dismissed with three minutes to go after being cautioned a second time by referee Barry Lamb.

Winsford | Green (GK), Perry, Duckworth, Rothwell, Parr, Foster, Brazel, Howell (Taylor 58), Riley, Johnson, Bennett Subs not used Hatton, Collins, Osborne (GK) Goal Johnson 40 Booked Perry, Riley, Johnson Sent off Riley (second caution)

Linnets | Hunt (GK), Aley, Hardwick, Morris, Simpson, Nolan, Holt, Hamid, Houghton, Shanley, Wellstead Subs not used Lawton, O’Brien, Burey, Cross Goal Green 6 (own goal)

Referee Barry Lamb

Attendance 202