Blackpool Mechanics 0 Darwen 2

DARWEN'S promotion bid is gathering momentum after two first half strikes sank struggling Mechanics at Jepson Way.

The Anchormen moved up to fourth in the First North Western Trains Second Division table after comfortably recording their fourth straight win.

Denny Khan and Michael Douglas were both on target during a 10-minute purple patch midway through the first half.

But defenders Matt Atkinson and Scott Derbyshire were once again outstanding and The Anchormen have yet to concede a goal in 360 minutes of league action so far this season.

Paul Baker and Steve Wilkes came in to replace suspended duo Andy Bright and Steve Lynch and Baker, in particular, turned in a lively display.

It was his persistence which created the opener on 25 minutes. Centre back Paul Bromley dallied in clearing Wilkes' long clearance, Baker muscled in and centred for Douglas to fire past the keeper.

And Baker was involved again in the second on 35 minutes, cleverly dummying Jimmy Khan's corner for Denny Khan to slot home his first goal since returning from Bacup in the summer.

Colne take on second-bottom Chadderton tonight in a FNWTL Second Division fixture at Holt House (kick off 7.30pm).

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