After such a good start to the season and with great hopes for a successful run in the FA Vase, Colne bowed out at the second hurdle after a lacklustre performance against Irlam.

Irlam made a good start and, in the opening minute, came close to scoring when Chris Palmer’s shot flew narrowly wide.

And on five minutes, Irlam took the lead when a back-pass to Jamie Scott bobbled and Ashley Kelly gratefully accepted the opportunity to blast the ball home.

Irlam then struck a post 10 minutes later through Anthony Hargreaves while Colne’s best efforts came from Martin Broderick who twice saw goal-bound shots blocked by some brave defending.

Colne began to dominate after the break but could not break down Irlam’s resistance.

And as they pushed for an equaliser, Willy Ahern added a second for Irlam to seal victory.