ATHERTON Collieries and West Didsbury & Chorlton, two teams that are similar and that have same ambition: to progress both on and off the field, in whatever way they can.

On this occasion Colls got the better, winning 2-0.

On 11minutes Brad Cooke got his just rewards. A defensive header landed straight at his feet and he instinctively lobbed the ball in to the net from at least 25 yards.

Ten minutes a free-kick was headed out to Jordan Cover on the edge of the area. Cover however, caught the ball wrong as he volleyed well over the bar.

Minutes later and the Collieries had hit the woodwork.

Mark Truffas hit the far post as he curled a low and hard free kick around the West wall. Yards from the box this was a fine effort from the winger who could of opted for the risky ‘up and under’ method.

The game was even-stevens but so it should be when two of the top teams of the league collide.

However Colls needed maximum points and on 78 minutes the lead was doubled.

James Kirby tapped in after Buckley-Smith spilled Justin Pickering’s shot from the edge of the area.

The relief around Alder House was palpable.

Despite the two goal deficit West didn’t stop – this was evident nine minutes from time.

Reid again was forced to make a superb save as he tipped the ball onto the bar from a shot by the impressive Ashley Woods.

On Saturday Colls host AFC Backpool in a St George’s Day Special while on Monday Nelson visit Alder House in a Pay What You Want special fixture. KO’s 3pm and 7.45pm respectively.