SCOTT McGowan scored twice for 1874 Northwich as they put further distance between themselves and the disappointment of an FA Vase semi-final exit.

Victories in successive games against the North West Counties League’s in-form teams are proof a side managed by Paul Bowyer and Wayne Goodison is back on track.

They avenged too a defeat against Irlam at St Luke’s Barton Stadium the previous week.

The visitors had to be patient though, and broke through on 51 minutes when McGowan, after goalkeeper Lee White had blocked his first effort, diverted the rebound into the net.

The striker took less than two minutes to double his tally, executing a perfectly-weighted chip over the home team’s custodian from 30 yards.

Sam Freakes claimed a first goal for the club since a transfer from Abbey Hey when he arrived at the far post to steer Matthew Woolley’s driven free-kick over the line.

Job done, and 1874 edge closer to those ahead of them in the Premier Division table.

They had been frustrated by Irlam’s defence in the first-half, and Jordan Icely’s attempt from long-range called Greg Hall into action.

He had to be alert to stop Connor Martin’s shot before the same player pulled a shot wide of the target shortly afterwards.

Woolley headed high from Freakes’ corner at the other end, and the latter’s centre was smuggled clear by a combination of full-back Joel Amado and White after he raced onto Jack Pritchard’s incisive pass.

Next stop, AFC Darwen on Monday night.

Irlam | White (GK), Harewood (Bolton 58), Amado, Morrison (Meredith 71), Braithwaite, Mills, Perry, Boland (Illidge 62), Foulds, Martin, Icely Sub not used Doyle Booked Icely

1874 | Hall (GK), Connor, Russell (Payne 76), Pritchard, Mitchell, Mark Jones, Hind, Matthew Woolley (Jack Woolley 76), McGowan (Riley 71), Freakes, Woods Subs not used Lever, Waite-Jackson Goals McGowan 51, 53 Freakes 74

Referee Mike Ainsworth

Attendance 91

Match report by Garry Clarke