IN the first of the Open Cup semi- finals Canary beat Doffcocker 5-3 in extra time, with Coote getting three, Dootson and Carr one each. For Doffcocker Guest, Tonge and Carney scored.

The man-of-the-match was awarded to Anthony Harrison of Farnworth Canary, for his non-stop work rate.

The next semi-final is on Sunday, March 25, between Deane and Hulton Lane A at Breightmet United, kick-off 2pm. Admission £1, or 50p for OAPs and under 16.

In the Premier Division, Jolly Waggoner and Vulcan share top spot, with Deane and three other clubs close behind.

Morris Dancers have dropped out of the league, and their record has been erased. They also failed to fulfil their financial obligations.

Astley Bridge beat T&S Northwest Removals 4-2 in Division One, which throws the title race wide open. Glover scored an own goal and Burns netted for T&S, while the Bridge came from 2-1 down with goals from Girling 2, Travers, and a penalty from Bridge's keeper Lester.

In the second division Greyman almost put paid to Egerton's hopes of winning the title by beating them 7-3, with goals from Craig Farnworth (2), Higson and Smith, while Thomasson (2) and Plano scored for Egerton.