AN evenly contested Marsden Trophy semi-final ended with two late goals that gave Morecambe a place in the final.

The scoreline was harsh on Chorley, who more than matched their Conference opponents in an absorbing clash.

A goalless first half saw Andy Mason come close three times for the Magpies while Morecambe keeper Mawson knew little about a Danny Mills drive which stuck in the number one's hands.

The best chance of the opening half fell to the visitors when Thompson's fierce shot was superbly parried by Lee Bracey and Rogan wastefully blazed the rebound over.

The industrious Anthony Hogan was forced off at half-time, but Chorley still continued to give as good as they got with Mills' diving header going close.

Ryan Sugden then missed an absolute sitter with only Bracey to beat, but the nearest to an opener came when David Eatock's speculative lob was tipped against the bar by Mawson, Mills just failing to reach the rebound.

The Magpies' defensive unit performed superbly but with six minutes left Howell drilled a superb corner to the edge of the box and Thompson flashed an unstoppable volley through a forest of legs and beyond the helpless Bracey.

In the last minute Morecambe ensured extra time, which for so long had looked likely, was not going to happen when Osborne scored from point-blank range.

from Murphy's precise cross to give the final scoreline a flattering look from the winners' perspective.

Finally, a word for referee Taylor from Blackburn who was superb throughout a thoroughly entertaining counter.

Attendance: 514.

CHORLEY...0

MORECAMBE...2