Padiham 2 Cheadle Town 1

PADIHAM were far from being at their best on Saturday but still picked up all three points thanks to Steve Pickup's 25-yard strike nine minutes from time.

Cheadle's Dave Reynolds had given the visitors a 37th minute lead in this North West Counties Division Two clash, after Padiham had wasted numerous chances in the opening half-hour.

Cheadle keeper Troy Whittle still proved difficult to beat at the start of the second half, but all that changed on 64 minutes.

Daniel Stubberfield converted a penalty awarded for a foul on Mark Westhead, while Cheadle defender Robert Kempton was sent off for swearing at the referee.

Padiham took full advantage of their extra man and, on 81 minutes, Stubberfield set up full back Pickup's unstoppable winner.