1874 Northwich made it four wins from four in the Midlands Football League Premier Division when they overcame 10-man Stone Old Alleynians in a top-of-the-table battle at Townfield last night.

Striker Joel Jones struck twice in six minutes late in the second half to complete a comeback win and leap above Stone into second place on the ladder.

1874, who handed a debut to Vinny Wright and a first start to Liam Anderson, went behind in the 15th minute against the run of play though a strike from central defender Josh Sedgley for the visitors.

Stone frontman Jack Tomlinson received a straight red card for an alleged elbow challenge on Matt Woolley in the 37th minute.

But the visitors fought tooth and nail to defend their lead and had a couple of chances to increase it, even with 10 men.

1874 were dominant though and Jones proved to be the hero of the night with his goals for the Greens in the 75th and 80th minutes.

The win leaves 1874 joint top with Lichfield City, but placed second on goal difference.

Chris Herbert’s men do have a game in hand, however.

They will be back in league action on Saturday when they visit 14th-placed Tividale and then on Tuesday they will head to Uttoxeter Town, who are currently bottom of the ladder without a win.

Meanwhile, Witton Albion – fresh from Saturday’s exciting FA Cup exploits – entertain Bradford Park Avenue in the FA Trophy at the U Lock It Stadium on Saturday.

And as long as no replay is needed in that contest, they will host Vauxhall Motors in Northern Premier League West on Tuesday.

Northwich Victoria, who drew 2-2 with AFC Wulfrunians on Tuesday night, host Romulus on Saturday and will then welcome Stone Old Alleynians to Barton Stadium next Wednesday.

High-flying Winsford United, without a game in midweek, make their first ever trip to Wolverhampton Sporting Community on Saturday in North West Counties League First Division South, and will then host Market Drayton Town in the Edward Case Cup preliminary round on Tuesday.

In the same division, Barnton are at home to Cammell Laird 1907 on Saturday.