Newcastle Town 1 Runcorn Linnets 2

FREDDIE Potter’s late winner allowed Linnets to stay in contention for an Evo-Stik First Division West play-off spot.

The substitute struck five minutes from time to secure victory over Newcastle Town that allowed them to remain fourth – two points behind third-place Ramsbottom with a game in hand.

After a goalless first half, Linnets took the lead when Ally Brown’s cross was headed onto the crossbar by Ryan Gibson, but the rebound fell nicely for Antony Hickey to slam home.

However, the lead lasted just four minutes as Newcastle equalised when the visitors failed to adequately clear a long throw, which allowed Chris Smith to loop a header beyond Tom Scott in the Runcorn goal.

It was another throw in that allowed Linnets to have the final say, though.

Pete Wylie’s delivery was flicked on Aaron Morris to find Potter, who instinctively found an overhead finish to spark scenes of wild celebration.

Linnets welcome Colwyn Bay to The Millbank on Saturday, kick off 3pm