RUNCORN Linnets conceded twice in each half at The Millbank Linnets Stadium on Tuesday as Curzon Ashton showed the ability and style which had earned them promotion to National League North at the end of last season for a 4-0 pre-season victory.

Both sides showed a willingness to play good football on a lush-looking pitch but the Tamesiders were always too strong - also hitting the woodwork three times before the break, firing a penalty kick against a post.

Linnets offered more of an attacking threat in the second half but could not find a breakthrough against a resolute visiting defence.

Freddie Potter was denied a penalty when fouled twice in quick succession inside he box; Frannie Smith struck the crossbar with a shot while Mark Houghton might also have scored after determined work by Kurt Sherlock but a spinning ball made it difficult for him to control his effort.

Runcorn had on Friday secured their first friendly victory at the second attempt, after drawing their opener, with 2-0 success against Northwich Manchester Villa of North West Counties League Division One at Manchester Regional Arena.

Kyle Hamid gave the visitors an interval lead after they had been awarded a free-kick late in the first half for the home goalkeeper picking up from a back pass.

Half-time changes saw the introduction by Linnets manager Joey Dunn of numerous trialists, one of whom was presented with a simple tap-in from a defensive mistake to double the lead.

The game, staged in the shadow of Manchester City's Etihad Stadium, provided a good workout for Runcorn who now continue their warm-up schedule with a home game today, Saturday, against Mossley, ko 3pm.