AFC DARWEN maintained their lead at the top of the North West Counties First Division after victory at East Lancashire rivals Nelson on Saturday.

The Salmoners are two points clear of Ashton Town after coming from behind to win at Victoria Park.

Liam Hutchinson put Nelson ahead in the 17th minute but Darwen equalised through Bobby Langford two minutes after the restart and Kiel Lonsdale netted the winner in the 69th minute.

Defeat left Nelson 15th in the table.