There were contrasting fortunes for the two local clubs in the Kool Sport Northern Counties East League Premier Division as Thackley won 3-0 away from home but Liversedge lost on their travels by exactly the same scoreline.

Fourth-placed THACKLEY returned from Long Eaton United with all three points from their victory but they had to wait a while to be sure as they hit two of their goals in stoppage time.

The M brigade combined to fashion their best first-half chance. A Matt Morgan cross was headed back by Nicky Matthews to Matt Mathers but his shot went over the target.

The sides reached the break goalless despite two good chances for the hosts’ Martin Bowles.

Thackley eventually broke the deadlock in the 59th minute when Morgan’s cross was turned in at close range by Matthews.

Aaron Brady had chances for Long Eaton either side of that strike, the second of which was cleared off the line by Andy King.

The three minutes of stoppage time were when Thackley finally cut loose. First Andy Howland made a break and put the ball into the area. The home keeper blasted his clearance at Thackley skipper Ross Daly and, when the ball dropped after hitting his chest, he stabbed it into the net.

A minute later it was Matthews who made the break and cut the ball back for Howland to slot in by the post.

The win did not lift Thackley up a place because Rainworth MW, the club directly above them, were the victors over LIVERSEDGE, who were never in the game with the home side being far too strong.

Craig Marshall fired Rainworth into a fourth-minute lead after slipping his marker and lashing in a shot on the turn. Veteran striker Neil Grayson added the second goal with a well-taken overhead kick.

Substitute Messiah McDonald wrapped up the scoring in the 75th minute after breaking from the halfway line.

Sedge spokesman John Hewitt said: “We didn’t create many chances. They are a very good side and that is reflected by their position in the league.

“Some people felt their third goal was offside but it wouldn’t have made any difference at all.”