Atherton Colls 2 Rochdale Town 4

COLLS missed the chance to top NWCFL Division One at Christmas following a second consecutive home defeat.

There seemed to be no sign of what was to ensue as Colls totally dominated the opening stage of the game.

Chances were created at will and a sixth-minute Paul Atherton goal was scant reward.

The wheels then fell off.

Town equalised midway through the half with a deflected effort from Callum Smith although he was allowed too much space in the box.

Town took the lead on 36 minutes.

A corner was headed back to the taker, he was afforded time and his cross was headed in by Kristian Evans.

Paul Atherton equalised from close range after 63 minutes but Town went straight down the pitch and won a penalty after Robert Swanton handled a goal-bound header on the line.

Swanton was dismissed and the penalty was dispatched by Carl Fitton.

Colls huffed and puffed but didn't really look like getting on level terms.

Sub Jordan James wrapped the game up in the dying embers of the game.

Colls were left to rue the missed chances before Town got their first goal.

The game could have been over by then.