RUNCORN launched a crucial final week of their league campaign with their biggest win in front of their home fans.

Despite being under pres-sure for long spells, their backline protected keeper Tony McMillan superbly, helping the confident-looking shot-stopperto deal with numerous corners while consistently getting bodies in the line of fire.

Runcorn, who have now lost just one of their last five at home in the UniBond League Premier Division, were in front from the ninth minute.

Carl Rendell, restored to the starting line-up, replacing injured Lee Kissock, scored on the rebound to a David Ness shot.

Stalybridge were handed a prompt chance to hit back due to Phil Eastwood being allowed to continue when clearly offside but he shot wastefully wide.

The Linnets doubled their lead in the 25th minute as Chris Lightfoot rose at the far post to head in an Anton Lally cross from the left.

Lightfoot and Ged Court-ney could have added a third early in the second half. Runcorn's victory was secured in the 75th minute when Mike Garrity netted.

RUNCORN FC HALTON: McMillan, Garrity, Ness, Nolan, Ellis, Spearritt, Lally, Morley, Lightfoot (Aldridge 75), Courtney (Platt 63), Rendell. Sub: Parkinson.