WINSFORD United boss berated his side’s lack of finishing after the Blues took just a point from their last two games.

The Blues had to fight back from a goal down against Colne on Saturday after Steve Throup gave the visitors a 27th-minute lead at the Barton Stadium.

And the 81-strong crowd had to wait until nine minutes from time when Darren Connell found the back of the net.

The Blues almost snatched a dramatic victory but Phil Mason’s 25-yarder smashed off the bar.

The draw followed last Tuesday’s home defeat to Newcastle Town. The 2-0 loss was harsh on the Blues after they had dominated affairs without finding the net. Stephen Siddell was red-carded and five others were cautioned as tempers rose.

Second-half goals from Neville Thompson and Steve Smith (pen) gave Town the win which perhaps they did not deserve.

Boss Joe Gibiliru said: “We have to start scoring goals, we just can’t finish teams off at the moment.

“There were some harsh words said at half- time and, to be fair, they have reacted well and almost taken the points. We need to learn to take our chances though.”

Gibiliru was yesterday poised to sign striker Andy Bishop who has played at Cammell Laird and Formby.

Winsford hosted Congleton Town last night and on Saturday they make the short trip to Wincham Park to face Runcorn Linnets (3pm).

Barnton finally put an end to a 12-match losing streak in Cheshire League Division One with a hard-fought point at home to Rylands/ Crosfields.

And it could have been more for the Townfield Lane outfit as the hosts held their 1-0 lead, given to them by a stunning Michael Sandbach free kick, until seven minutes from time.

Manager Mick Duckett said: “The keeper never moved, it was a great effort. We could do with a few more of those but performances are getting better.”

On Saturday, Barnton travel to Garswood United (2.15pm).

Lostock survived a late scare to steal the points from their thrilling Cheshire League Division Two clash at Whitchurch Alport.

The Grey Lambs started well and had a goal disallowed when Gareth Barry was judged to be offside when turning home Butters’ cross.

The game looked certain for a draw until five minutes from time when the referee awarded Lostock a penalty for handball.

Birdsey stepped up and fired the ball home for the second week running.

But Alport were not beaten and were awarded a penalty of their own with just seconds remaining. Alport keeper Newton took the penalty but Lostock’s Bird pulled off a fine save to earn the victory.

On Saturday, Lostock host 12th-placed Poynton (2.15pm).

Lostock Reserves smashed Crewe & District title challengers Cuddington 5-1 on Saturday (Smith 2, Carter, Jones, Shutt).