ATHERTON Colls were left kicking themselves after going down 1-0 to Witton Albion in the first qualifying round of the AXA FA Cup.

Managed by ex-Manchester City favourite Nigel Gleghorn, UniBond Division One side Albion were stunned by Colls' positive approach.

Albion's long ball approach forced a number of corners but Colls defence coped magnificently. Going forward, Colls wingers Mark Jones and Mark Fitton were dangerous and just before the interval Paul Griffin had a goalbound effort cleared off the line.

The second half followed a similar pattern and the home supporters became increasingly frustrated.

Disaster struck for Colls in the 74th minute when a throw-in was needlessly conceded and an unmarked Dave Anane grabbed what proved to be the winner.

Within minutes Colls had almost snatched an equaliser when Lee Bowles and Mark Fitton had shots cleared off the line.

Tomorrow they area in FA Carlsberg Vase action at Selby Town. A coach for supporters has been organised. For further details ring the club on 884649.

On Tuesday Colls gave NWCL Division One leaders Clitheroe a real scare taking a 2-0 lead on their own turf at a rainswept Shawebridge.

However, a disastrous last 20 minutes saw Alan Lord's side fall to a 4-2 defeat.

Paul Cox gave Colls the lead on the 20-minute mark with a headed goal from a corner and before the interval a brilliant individual effort from Mark Jones had the current table-toppers on the rack.

Two goals within a minute around the 70 minutes mark put Clitheroe, unbeaten in six games so far this season, level and another double strike in quick succession maintained that unbeaten start.