PAUL Bowyer admits 1874 Northwich again fell short during a derby with Runcorn Linnets following a 4-1 defeat on Saturday.

He told the Guardian the result did not accurately reflect the game, but conceded that the visitors merited maximum points.

“The score flatters them,” said 1874’s assistant manager.

“But we have to be honest, and on the balance of play they did more than we did to win the game.”

1874 have now lost their past three matches in the North West Counties League’s top-flight, and their hopes of being promoted – even if not mathematically – are over for another season.

They took the lead against Linnets when Jason Carey rifled past debutant goalkeeper Adam Caunce, only to be reduced to 10 men shortly afterwards when Lee Jones was cautioned for a second time.

Runcorn restored parity through Freddie Potter, and edged ahead by the break when Kristian Holt drilled past custodian Greg Hall with the final touch of the first half.

Bowyer said: “It was a massive blow to concede a second when we did.

“We should have made it to half-time still level, but we tried to play out from the back and got caught out.

"It was a great finish though by their guy, and it gave them a boost.

“We needed to regroup in any case, so our message didn’t change; we asked the lads to still be in the game with 20 minutes left so we could try to have a go at them.”

The introduction of wide men Joe Woolley and Tyler Edwards was designed to do exactly that, but 1874 did not prompt Caunce to make a save.

Instead they fell further behind when former player Stuart Wellstead, on as a substitute, sent a dipping shot into the top corner with three minutes left.

Fellow replacement Zac Aley then made it 4-1 in added time.

“We felt Joe and Tyler could give us pace out wide, but it didn’t quite work out," added Bowyer.

“It’s always difficult with 10 men, and Lee was late. He’s held his hands up afterwards.

“We’re frustrated because he’s made only two tackles in the game and got booked both times.

“However we need to regroup now, and quickly too.

“We’ve an important game in midweek, and I hope we use it as an opportunity to pull together as a club.

“The lads then need to do their bit on the pitch.”

1874, the holders, host Witton Albion on Thursday in a Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup semi-final, kick off 7.45pm.