WINSFORD wrapped up their season with a solid, if unspectacular, victory.

They also complted a rare double in the bargain but once more theirs was a tale of missed chances that if taken would have embellished their victory.

Most of the early pressure was on the visitors' goal.

Dean Ennion looked to have given Blues an early lead but his eighth minute header was ruled out for offside.

Two minutes later Lee Madin shot wide when he might have done better and further first half efforts by Madin and Phil Mason failed to find the target.

On 36 minutes Ross Kennedy was on hand to clear a sharp shot by Robert Dutton off the line.

Blues continued to press in the second half and Madin smashed a shot against the bar when it seemed easier to score.

Barnes might have been going for goal of the season on the hour mark, but his spectacular overhead kick flashed just wide of the upright.

The Winsford forwards had definitely left their shooting boots at home and Mason spurned a great chance to give the his side the lead when he shot weakly at Formby custodian Lee Gunnion.

However he was later to make up for it and, just after Dave Ridler had his header saved on the line, Madin's shot from the right was handled by a visiting defender.

Mason stepped up to score from the penalty spot.

Formby had rarely threatened since the opening stages but Blues were rocked when Jones burst through on 83 minutes only to be brought down by Langley and the same player levelled things from the resulting penalty.

The away team's joy was shortlived when straight from the restart Mason collected a through ball and calmly placed it wide of the advancing Gunnion.


Star Man: Dave Ridler
Blues: Langley (GK), Calland, Duckworth, Barnes, Ridler, Bluck, Madin, Ennion, Mason, Miranda, Kennedy (Connell 76)
Sub not used: Dears
Attendance: 93