1874 Northwich's fine run of form continued this week.

Saturday's impressive 4-1 win at Bootle in a top-of-the-league tussle was followed up with another resounding victory on Tuesday night in the Macron Cup.

The greens, managed by Wayne Goodison and Paul Bowyer, overhauled Irlam 4-0 in a tie reversed to Townfield after two failed attempts to play at a waterlogged Silver Street ground.

1874, who led 2-0 at half time thanks to goals from Scott McGowan (11) and Callum Gardner (31), progress into the third round and a trip to Rylands.

Harry Cain (57) killed the contest with 1874's third goal before striker McGowan (72) netted his second.

Two fine displays nicely lead into the North West Counties Premier Division leaders visiting 19th-placed Burscough on Saturday, kick-off 3pm.

Meanwhile, Northwich Victoria – last-gasp 2-1 winners at Avro on Saturday – were defeated 3-1 on Tuesday at Ashton Athletic.

Steve Wilkes' men led the league encounter for 23 minutes after an own goal gave them the perfect start.

Christoper Bandell (25) levelled matters and Ashton got their noses in front in the 65th minute courtesy of Paul Watson. The win was nailed when Bandell banged in his second 10 minutes later.

As a result, Ashton leap above 10th-placed Vics into seventh spot.

The Trickies now have a run of matches against sides in the lower reaches of the Premier Division, starting with a trip to 18th-placed Skelmersdale on Saturday, kick-off 3pm, and then a home date with 15th-placed Barnoldswick on Wednesday, 7.45pm.