Reds’ Reserves could have a say in the destination of the Lancashire League title as they look up to the rest from the foot of the table.

They lost narrowly to Woodley Sports on Tuesday and that win took the Stockport outfit to the top of the table three points ahead of Southport who have a far superior goal difference.

That was Woodley’s last game while Southport have one match remaining and that will be against Reds next week.

Having done so well for the first team at Hyde, Adam Main was left out of the Reserves’ line-up.  He was missed but, nevertheless, it was a good, committed performance which should have yielded at least a point.

All the goals came in the first half with Sports’ taking a 15^th minute lead.  Kris Dickinson released Matt Zanac and he finished in style from just inside the box.

Reds‘ were back on terms ten minutes later with Barry Irving finding the target with a fine header via Andrew Bromley’s corner.

After working hard to get back in contention, the home side shot themselves in the foot by gifting Sports’ the winner.  Debutant goalkeeper, sixteen years old Chris Batty, flapped at the ball and missed enabling Zanac to head home from close range.

Young Batty did well, though, for the remainder of the game putting that costly mistake behind him.

Inspired by the classy Sam Smith at the back, the hard working Dan Gullen in midfield and the experienced Irving up front, Reds dominated the second half but, despite created several half chances, were unable to force an equaliser.

Their hectic end of season continues at Bamber Bridge on Thursday.

Team:  Chris Batty, Simon Bragg, Greg Mitchell (Jake Smith), Sam Smith, George Close, Martin Rossi, Dan Gullen, Lee McCullough (Callum Killick), Barry Irving, Richard Hoban (Dion Barnes), Andrew Bromley.