CHAMPIONS Colne showed no sign of fatigue as, with several players missing, they took apart sixth-placed Ashton with a first half power display that could have led to the scoreline going into double figures.

The Reds now sit 10 points clear at the top of the league and go into their final game at Eccleshall on Saturday having hit 100 league goals.

The game was only five minutes old when Colne were awarded a free kick, and the combination that has won many points this season worked again when James Webster produced a cross for Scott Gizon to head home.

Jason Heffernan and Webster combined on the left and Webster released Gizon, whose strong run ended with a shot that rifled into the bottom corner for his and Colne's second of the night on 18 minutes.

It was 3-0 on the half-hour when Webster's short corner found Heffernan, who crossed for Richard Walton to nod in an easy header at the far post.

A mix-up in the Reds defence gifted Ashton a goal, but Colne restored their three-goal cushion on 40 minutes when Chris Ingham's clever through ball let in Gizon to complete his hat-trick.

Ross Baxter, still struggling from a knock he picked up against Great Harwood on Saturday, did not come out for the second half and Gavin Cooper took over in goal, while player manager Nigel Coates made a rare appearance to replace the injured Ingham.

But if Ashton anticipated any respite with the changes, those thoughts were quickly dispelled straight after the break when Webster released Haworth, whose cross was turned in by Sam Hayes.

Colne completely dominated the half, with Carl Haworth having two one-on-ones with the keeper which he failed to convert.

Gizon then broke through and was brought down in the area only for Haworth to step up and have his spot kick well saved.

Just when it seemed it was not going to be the Reds' leading scorer's night, Haworth broke clear again, this time rounding the keeper to roll the ball into an empty net with five minutes remaining.

THERE are still a few seats left for the coach to Eccleshall on Saturday, which leaves the Thatch and Thistle at 11.30am. Contact secretary Dave Blacklock for further details.

ASHTON TOWN ...1

COLNE ...6