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Reform close in on league crown

23/ 4/2008

HEYWOOD Reform took a massive stride towards the premier division title when they outplayed their nearest challengers – the 3-0 margin of victory flattering hosts Prestwich.

Mike Weatherilt put the finishing touch to a defence splitting move by Winters and Nuttall to open the scoring. Reform created a host of chances as they ripped Prestwich apart. Weatherilt saw efforts strike the crossbar and the post before a Chris Nuttall cracker doubled the lead.

The second half belonged almost totally to Reform but, despite prolonged pressure, they only managed to add one more goal. It was a brilliant effort as Nuttall’s searching cross picked out the rampaging Andrew Tinker and his superb header gave the keeper no chance.

Two days later Reform booked their place in the final of Sunday’s Millenium Cup with a decisive 6-0 victory over Crumpsall Town. Craig Winter, Weatherilt 2, Jack Nicholson, and Chris Nuttall were on target for Reform.

The re-union for Heywood footballers, planned for the 4 May at Heywood St James, will go ahead. Full details in next week’s Advertiser.

CLARENCE Athletic under 16s made a short midweek trip to Bury in the first round of the League Cup and returned with a comprehensive 6-0 victory over Bury Juniors.

Heap fired them ahead in the first half and Liam Mott and Ridsdale (2) added three more just after the break.

The visitors made it 5-0 when man of the match Spencer latched onto a Gaskell cross to hammer home and Flitcroft completed the scoring with the goal of the match, meeting a Mott cross on the volley to give the keeper no chance.

In their next game, at Puma Hawks, Clarence came from a goal down to win 2-1 with goals from Ridsdale and Nathan Bates.

Clarence under 14s are through to the final of the North Bury Cup after a 1-0 win over Bridge Colts.