Atherton Collieries fell to a 3-1 defeat at Trafford in the FA Trophy on Saturday afternoon.

Goals from Damola Sotona, Jordan Fagbola and Ryley Smith were enough for the hosts to progress.

The game got off to an unfortunate start for the Colls as an early penalty was given for the home side after a coming together in the area, which allowed Sotona to fire home from 12 yards.

The second came just before the half-hour mark as Fagbola rose highest to meet a floated corner which was initially well saved by Ellis Litherland, but the stopper could not keep out the big defender’s rebound.

In the lead up to half time, Colls restored their dominance with Eden Bailey striking the upright after a great ball in behind the Trafford defence.

Trafford added a third just 10 minutes after the break, as Ryley Smith’s individual brilliance resulted in him knocking through a set of Colls legs before firing the ball into the far comer from just outside the area.

Colls once again resumed their push for a late comeback as Will Riding got one back, his first effort denied before he hoovered up the rebound with 20 minutes remaining.

The Black and Whites maintained their pressure throughout the remainder of the game, with Alex Doyle unfortunate not to receive a penalty following a clattering tackle from Jack Higginbotham.

The Stripes make their return to the Dreams2Reality Stadium for the first home game under new management next weekend, with Kidsgrove the opposition as the club celebrate Michael Clegg’s homecoming.