Runcorn Linnets defeated Widnes 2-1 in the BetVictor Northern Premier League North West Division.
Commonly known as the El Clasitoll in Halton. In reference to the Mersey Gateway bridge connecting the towns.
Widnes made three changes from their draw with City of Liverpool. New loan signing Aidan Stone making his debut.
Linnets named an unchanged side from their victory against Brighouse Town.
First Half
It took 16 minutes for the tie to get into action as Ryan Gibson placed the ball in the net for it to get ruled out due to offside.
Two minutes later and Runcorn would score again, this one would not be disallowed.
Paul Shanley slotted it past the debuting Stone.
Second Half
Into the second half and Widnes were lucky to not be 2-0 down as defender Jay Roberts pulls off a superb challenge to stop a certain goal for Linnets.
A moment of brilliance from Runcorn’s Louis Corrigan as he curls in a free-kick to make it 2-0.
Widnes would spice up the game right at the end as Jay Roberts launches a long ball up to Ben Hodkinson. The striker turned his marker inside out and fired the shot home. 2-1.
James Steele had the chance to equalize in the 94th minute, but he could only nod the ball wide.
Linnets picked up their first away win of the season with that result.
Runcorn manager, Michael Ellison commented on the victory against their Halton rivals, he said:
“I thought we were excellent.
“That is our first away win of the season and what a place to do it.
“We knew it would be tough, it is always tough to come here [DCBL Stadium]
“We controlled the game in the first half, and a little unlucky to not go in more than one up.
“But we knew that they would come out second half and have a go.”
Ellison was full of praise for defender Jack Hinnigan:
“I thought Jack was outstanding.
“We know he can head it, he can kick it, great in a tackle. A natural defender.
“But his [Jack Hinnigan] quality on the ball today was excellent.”
