1874 NORTHWICH returned to winning ways at a soaking Padiham.

The Greens, defeated by Irlam and Squires Gate on their last two outings, became the first team to inflict a defeat on Padiham this season with a 2-0 success.

New arrival Ash Woods put 1874's noses in front in the 18th minute with a goal on his first start up front.

Jake Parker blasted home from a narrow angle 20 minutes from time to seal the three points.

Padiham had defender Daniel Morton sent off five minutes from time for a second bookable offence.

"Considering the conditions and how wet the surface was, we've managed the game really well," said co-manager Wayne Goodison.

"There were times when we could have been a little better with the ball but overall on that surface we've got no complaints."

He added: "We wanted to make sure we played with energy from minute one and we did."

The game marked Ryan Mitchell's return off the bench.

"It's been a long time out for Ryan and we've nursed him through a little bit," said Goodison.

"We got him a full game on Thursday night with the under 21s and he came through that really well so it was good to have him involved and we thought today with 20 minutes to go his experience would help us."

 

1874 will host Skelmersdale at Townfield on Tuesday.

Skem will arrive in buoyant mood after reaching the first round proper of the FA Cup today with a 4-1 win at Stafford Rangers.