Doodson Sport Cup action review

The Evo-Stik Northern Premier League's Doodson Sport Cup returned to action this week with a handful of games managing to beat the weather, writes Pitchero's Steve Whitney.

And there was a 'surprise' too at Victory Park where Premier Division Chorley were beaten by the odd goal in five by Evo-Sti NPL First Division North play-off chasers Cammell Laird in a Third Round tie.

Lairds got off to a flying start after just two minutes when Mike Grogan forced the ball home. But the Magpies went 2-1 up with an own goal from Lee Atherton after 28 minutes and then an Adam Roscoe effort just past the hour-mark. But late goals from Joe Holt on 81 minutes and Chay Dysart in stoppage time earned Lairds an away trip to Marine in the last sixteen.

Other Third Round ties saw FC United of Manchester triumph 2-1 at Hurst Cross against Premier Division rivals Ashton United with goals from Mike Norton after 22 minutes and Adam Jones just after half-time – Dennis Sheriff replying on 50 minutes.

Northwich Victoria won the all Evo-Stik NPL First Division South tie at Marston Road against Market Drayton Town, courtesy of a 58th minute Scott Harries effort.

There were a couple of Fourth Round ties completed too, with Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division strugglers Eastwood Town enjoying some joy at last by beating lower league neighbours Rainworth Miners Welfare 2-0 with goals from Gary Breach after 18 minutes and Lavell White 10 minutes from time.

Evo-Stik NPL First Division North promotion-chasers Farsley FC also ousted higher league opponents, Worksop Town going down 2-1 at Throstle Nest. Brice Tieni gave the hosts the lead five minutes before the break and Adam Priestley added their second on 66 minutes. Ashley Burbeary reduced the arrears four minutes later but Farsley held on to move into the quarter-finals.