RUNCORN Linnets returned to winning ways with a 4-0 league win over AFC Blackpool at the Millbank.

After Kev Towey and Joey Dunn received their accolades for Premier Division player and Manager of the Month respectively before kick-off, the Linnets started the game well.

Kyle Hamid put the hosts in front with a close-range finish to capitalise on an error by Blackpool ‘keeper Phil Priestley.

Priestley made amends for his earlier error by keeping the Linnets lead to one by producing wonderful saves to deny Antony Hickey and then Martin Crowder’s thunderous volley.

However, Michael Simpson’s cross saw Towey head the ball on to Hamid to finish for his second and double the Linnets lead.

After taking the 2-0 lead into the break, Runcorn stayed on the front foot in the second half, continually forcing corners.

Towey finished a neat move, only for the offside flag to cancel out the effort.

However, the Linnets were to finally have their further reward thanks to two memorable strikes from Michael Simpson.

The first from 25 yards out after taking one touch found the top corner.

And less than ten minutes later, this time from the half-volley, Simpson repeated the act in even more impressive style.

Runcorn continued to threaten the Blackpool goal, Atherton also having a well-struck penalty saved by Priestley, who put in a fine display to keep rampant Linnets to four.

Attendance: 260