Wyre Villa 2 Blackrod 1: BLACKROD Town suffered their first defeat in eight matches in a dress rehearsal for this Saturday's Richardson Cup tie.

Two defensive errors in the first-half gifted two goals to Wyre in this West Lancs Premier Division clash, as Blackrod showed uncertainty under pressure.

In the second half, Blackrod midfielder Mark Callow took hold of the game, and curled in a lovely free kick seven minutes after the break to make it 2-1.

Callow then created five more realistic scoring opportunities which his fellow players could not convert.

Wyre were glad to hear the final whistle, while Blackrod were left to hope for revenge when the two sides meet again this weekend.

Blackrod Reserves got back on the winning trail after a recent poor run which has effectively ended their title hopes.

They receovered from a two-goal half-time deficit to beat Hesketh Bank 3-2.

Andy Morris scored twice to level at 2-2 before Damien Slater hit the winner with a 20 yard rocket shot. Blackrod remain in third spot.