Lower Breck, Runcorn Linnets, Dunston Score Convincing Early Wins

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, August 9, 2026

Lower Breck, Runcorn Linnets, and Dunston all began their Northern Premier West Division seasons with decisive victories, scoring multiple goals against their respective opponents. These strong starts highlight their potential as key contenders in the league race for promotion and top-table positions.

Lower Breck, Runcorn Linnets, and Dunston all recorded convincing victories as their Northern Premier West Division campaigns got underway.

Lower Breck secured a strong 4-1 win against Lichfield City at the Anfield Sports & Community Centre. The home side took control early, with Will Lawson heading them into the lead in the 32nd minute. Luke Gill doubled the advantage soon after, capitalizing on a series of chances despite commendable saves by Lichfield goalkeeper Tom Carter. Lichfield responded with a goal from substitute Dylan Thomas in the 64th minute, narrowing the margin. However, Gill and Alex Cherera added late goals during stoppage time to firmly seal the victory for Lower Breck.

Runcorn Linnets also enjoyed a commanding start to the season in their match against Stalybridge Celtic. Debutant Nick Rushton scored twice, including a goal within the opening minute, exploiting early defensive errors. Rushton’s second came shortly before halftime, following a near miss from teammate Jay Harris. Despite a rally from Stalybridge, Linnets goalkeeper Calvin Hare produced several crucial saves, denying efforts from Josh Granite and Ruben Jerome. After the break, Dec McLoughtlin converted a penalty to extend the home side’s lead to 3-0. The visitors then scored twice through penalty taker Jack Irlam and Ellis Horan, but a late long-range strike from youngster Matty Whittingham added a final flourish, resulting in a 4-2 win for Linnets.

Dunston also emerged victorious with a 2-0 win at Matlock Town. Nic Bollado’s two first-half goals proved decisive, starting with a header from a Phil Turnbull cross in the tenth minute. Matlock threatened with a strike that hit the crossbar, but just before halftime Bollado scored his second, skillfully maneuvering past three defenders before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Marcus Dewhurst. In the second half, Dewhurst denied Bollado a hat-trick with a crucial save. Bollado’s brace gave Dunston a solid foundation as they opened their season with a valuable away win.

These opening results set a competitive tone for the Northern Premier West Division, with Lower Breck, Runcorn Linnets, and Dunston demonstrating early momentum in their pursuit of promotion and strong league finishes.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.