RUNCORN suffered their first defeat in six UniBond League Premier Division matches after an inept display.
Still without a league win at the Halton Stadium, they have accrued only four points compared to 21 on their travels.
They also picked up seven of the nine bookings from a match which didn't contain a bad challenge. Three Linnets players were cautioned for dissent in the last 20 minutes and while there is no excuse for indiscipline, it was a reflection of frustration which the officials had created.
Despite slovenly defensive work by Runcorn there were few chances. But in the first 10 minutes of the second half, Kevin Leadbetter and Ashton's Phil Denney traded penalties.
Craig Fleury clinched matters with a fine left-foot shot inside the far post in the 78th minute.
RUNCORN FC HALTON: McMillan, Carragher, Ness, Nolan, Ellis, Spearritt, Hogan, Garritty, Rendell (Carden 76), Courtney, Leadbetter. Subs: Thomas, Parkinson.
