1874 NORTHWICH came from behind to maintain their perfect start to the season as they seek promotion from the North West Counties League’s top flight.

They trailed to Premier Division newcomers Atherton Collieries at the interval, but recovered in style to extend a winning sequence in the league to three matches.

Mark Truffas became the first player to score a goal against Ian Street’s men this season, who had gone more than five hours without conceding, when he swerved a stunning shot past goalkeeper Matthew Conkie – making his 100th appearance for the visitors – on 37 minutes.

When Kristian Holt flashed an attempt wide in the seconds before the break, 1874 had reason to be worried.

They had created openings of their own, notably when Colls custodian Danny Taberner stopped Mike Brandon’s header.

Ryan Jackson’s goal-bound effort was diverted to safety too.

An equaliser arrived seven minutes after half-time, when Matthew Ward’s free kick to the far post was sent back towards goal by skipper Neil Chappell for Danny Thomas to force in from close range.

And 1874 led for the first time midway through the second period when Brandon, after Ward’s shot had been deflected into his path, prodded in the loose ball.

Holt tried his luck twice from distance without concerning Conkie, who celebrated along with his teammates when Jackson’s low drive secured maximum points from Brandon’s assist. 

It leaves 1874 fourth in the table as the only side to boast an unblemished record.

Colls | Taberner (GK), Wedge, Nathan Battersby (Kenny 65), Messer (Cover 83), Grimshaw, Ayres, Truffas, Cooke, Mark Battersby, Holt, Peet (Hardcastle 65) Subs not used Kirby, Boland Goal Truffas 37

1874 | Conkie (GK), Connor, James (Ledwards 55), Thomas, Lomas, Chappell, Kirk (Hill 66), Woolley, Brandon, Ward (McNichol 85), Jackson Subs not used Mitchell, Stewart Goals Thomas 52, Brandon 70, Jackson 83

Referee J Baines

Attendance 287

Additional reporting by Garry Clarke