LOSTOCK were within inches of winning the derby clash with their Bolton neighbours.

Stuart Paul’s late penalty looked as though it would clinch it for Lostock but his effort bounced back off the crossbar. That was as close as either side got to breaking the deadlock and claiming the bragging rights.

In the opening exchanges, the home side seemed to have the upper hand but some strong defence from both teams ensured it remained pointless, though Bolton hooker and ex-Lostock player Mark Thownsend was excellent and made some good yards. Lostock’s winger Lee Worgan was star performer in poor conditions and picked up the man-of-the-match honours.

Lostock club president, Phil Stephenson, also played his part, not only by making a huge tackle on Bolton’s stand-off, but by sponsoring the game as well.

l Lostock’s John Stryker, pictured left, and Bolton’s Derek Keogh battle for the ball.