THE departure of striker Paul Gallagher to Eagley a fortnight ago has led to Breightmet United manager Phil Breakell unearthing another goalscoring gem.

Phil Hinks took over the role of leading the front line and scored both goals in United's 2-1 home win over Manchester Royal. That took his tally to four in two games.

The new Moss Park number nine got his side off to a cracking start with both his goals coming early, the second a beauty as he clipped the ball over his marker and then again over the keeper.

United then failed to build on this and, with the visitors getting a goal back on 85 minutes, had to sweat it out to the final whistle having dominated for most of the game.

Centre back Andy Hicks was named as star performer.

United's Reserves went down 5-0 away at Dukinfield Town. In the Premier Division Pennington went down 3-1 at home to Mitchell Shackleton, Phil Richardson the scorer, while Leigh Athletic bounced back from a two goal interval deficit to draw 2-2 at New Mills, Rick Wilson and Steve Bevan the scorers.

Atherton Town Reserves won 1-0 away at East Manchester, courtesy of an Andy Morris goal, to conintue the club's proud record of both teams unbeaten in any competition.

Elton Fold Reserves lost 3-2 at Wythenshawe Town and Pennington 2nds went down heavily 8-2 at Failsworth Town.

The clash between Leigh Athletic Reserves and Hindsford Reserves finished 2-1 in the home team's favour.