Celtic eye play-off glory

Stalybridge Celtic are just one win away from a long-awaited return to the NPL Premier, with Tuesday’s narrow victory over Runcorn Linnets earning them a place in the NPL West play-off final. 

As was the case the last time the sides met at Bower Fold, Andy Scarisbrick’s early strike proved to be the difference on the night, setting up a final showdown with local rivals Avro.  

Scarisbrick pounced after Linnets failed to clear Liam Tongue’s through ball, shifting onto his left foot and slotting into the bottom right corner with just eight minutes on the clock. 

Hosts Celtic came close to doubling their advantage just before the break when Ellis Horan was denied by the legs of former Hyde stopper Yusuf Mersin after a mazy solo run, before Aaron Chalmers saw his acrobatic effort fly just wide of the upright. 

Visitors Runcorn began to grow into the tie after the interval, forcing a smart double save from Charlie Monks early on, who got down well to deny Naim Arsan before keeping out Scott Bakkor’s effort at his near post. 

More pressure followed, with Brendan O’Brien’s header crashing off the crossbar before Joe Ferguson nodded goalwards only to be denied by a heroic goal line clearance from the ever-reliable Chalmers. 

Hearts were in mouths once again late on when Ferguson raced in behind, but the speedy full-back saw his effort flash just wide of the woodwork to the delight of the Stalybridge faithful. 

“We knew it was going to be challenging, but we find ways to win,” a delighted Jon Macken told the Reporter at full-time. 

“We had to dig in at times, and defensively, I thought we were outstanding. 

“Overall, I think we deserved it, and I just want to say a massive congratulations to the players. 

“It would mean everything to be promoted. 

“I’ve always said this club should be a higher position, and everyone wants that. 

“We’re going to give it everything.” 

Saturday’s final sees Celtic travel to Avro, who themselves edged through with a dramatic shootout win over Lower Breck.