ZACK Dale’s brace helped Barnoldswick to a 2-1 home victory over Ashton Athletic in the Hallmark Security League Premier Division.

The frontman struck twice in the space of 15 second half minutes and although Chris Bandell pulled one back for the visitors, the home side held out for the win.

Barlick are now fifth in the table.

Padiham were beaten 3-2 at home by Burscough as their winning run came to an end.

Michael Fowler put the Storks in front midway through the first half but the visitors scored twice in the four minutes before the break and added a third with four minutes to go meaning Liam O’Neill’s late strike was too little too late.

The result leaves Padiham seventh in the standings.

In the First Division North, Michael Gervin hit a hat-trick as Bacup Borough beat Cleator Moor Celtic 4-2.

Anthony Hall was also on target for the home side from the spot as Brent Peters’ side climbed to 14th in the table.

AFC Darwen, in sixth, let slip a 3-0 lead as they drew 4-4 away at Atherton LR with Leon Creech scoring twice for the visitors either side of an Elliot Pond brace. Nelson, down in 17th, were beaten 2-1 at AFC Blackpool with Ken Taylor on target.

In the Evo-Stik West, Clitheroe extended their unbeaten run to four games in all competitions with a 1-1 draw at Chasetown courtesy of an Andreas Bianga strike.

Despite their improved run the result saw the Blues slip to the foot of the table.

Ramsbottom United surrendered a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 at Kendal Town. Jerome Wright scored twice for Mark Fell’s men who are 11th.

Colne are out of the FA Trophy after losing 2-1 at Trafford in the extra preliminary round. Waqas Azam scored the Steve Cunningham’s side two minutes from time.

The Reds created plenty of chances, with Brad Lynch and Alex Curran both hitting the bar, but ultimately it was Trafford who booked a place in the next round.