WITTON claimed the victory, Winsford the plaudits in the Mid Cheshire Senior Cup semi-final on Tuesday.

The North West Counties League Second Division leaders were the better team in the first half, created the better chances throughout, took the lead midway through the second and were three minutes from a surprise win at Wincham Park.

With several players unavailable, Albion were forced to play centre back Brian Pritchard as Carl Frost's partner up front throughout and he proved to be the home hero.

But, firstly, United got the goal they overall deserved, in the 68th minute when Rob Hopley blasted home from 25 yards.

Albion had gradually taken the upper hand, however, and in the 87th minute grabbed an equaliser to put a fair reflection on the 90 minutes.

Their winner came as a penalty shoot-out loomed in the 118th minute when Alex Brown made three mesmerising step-overs in the penalty box and scored a belter.

WITTON: Kennedy; Hockenhull, Barras, Spearritt, Brownhill; Peers (M Jones 7), Alex Brown, McGuire, Alistair Brown (Williams 79); Frost (Hughes 119), Pritchard.

WINSFORD: Morton; Murray, Marsh, Aston, Duckworth; Top-ping, Melia (Wellstead 83), Jarrett (Porter 76), Hanlon; Miranda (Weir 83), Hopley.

Attendance: 148

Albion Star: Brian Pritchard, display of versatility United Star: Dave Hanlon, always worrying Witton Albion