Haslingden 3 Kidsgrove Athletic 2

HASLINGDEN FC folded last night - but went out with a bang not a whimper!

The Tangerines saved one of their best ever performances until last, fighting back from 2-0 down to beat champions-elect Kidsgrove 3-2 on an emotional night at Ewood Bridge

"It only really hit home that we won't be around next season to a lot of people after the final whistle last night," said player-boss Steve Parry.

"Some people believed that we would resurface in a lower league next term but that is it.

"The end!"

The club had decided to resign from the North West Counties League back in January but battled on to fulfil their fixtures.

A lack of local interest and help running the club, combined with a difficult relationship with the ground's latest owners proved to be the final nails in the coffin.

Parry has led his troops with honour during a difficult time for the club and he was bitterly disappointed that they had be forced to call it a day.

"Last night we showed the spirit and the potential on the field here. "But that was not enough.

"I feel sorry for the players because they have been left without a club."

There was anger too, as well as sadness, with Parry wondering what will become of Ewood Bridge.

"A lot of the facilities are only there because of Sports Council grants and they were built for community use," said Parry.

"But the public might not be able to benefit from them in future unless they pay."

Last night Haslingden were a goal down in the 14th minute when a shot was deflected by Steve Pickup into his own goal.

Kidsgrove went 2-0 up in the 30th minute through Dundas.

But Haslingden produced a memorable second half fightback with substitute Pete McLoughlin, who had only turned up as a spectator, scoring four minutes after the restart.

Dave Gardner levelled things five minutes later after a good move down the right flank.

Then in the 59th minute Lloyd Green, one of the club's longest serving players, scored the winner with a far post header.

Haslingden withstood strong Kidsgrove pressure to end their existence on a high note.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.