CLITHEROE held on to their unbeaten start to the season by coming back from two goals down from their NWCL Division One fixture at Atherton.

Starting well, the visitors had the best of the early chances with Andy Cowking forcing the home keeper to turn over a powerful header.

From the resulting corner, Gary Rishton had his header cleared off the line.

Striker Lee Cryer had a 20 yard shot deflected for a corner while Atherton had their moments.

Their best chance was saved by Clitheroe keeper Kris Richens right on the half-time whistle.

The home team took the lead on the hour when a 35 yard free kick flew direct into the top corner beyond Richens.

They double their lead four minutes later from another free kick.

The ball was delivered into the boss and the Clitheroe defence watched as it was headed home.

Seven minutes later, Clitheroe boss Lee Sculpher introduced on loan striker Lee Buggie, from Accrington Stanley.

And, within 10 seconds he scored from close range after a Cowking headed a free kick across the area.

Just three minuters later, skipper Neil Spencer was needlessly upended in the box.

He dusted himself down and converted the spot kick to give the game it's fourth goal in 15 minutes.

Sculpher's men pushed for a winner and although it never came they still sit proudly at the top of the league.

ATHERTON LR...2

CLITHEROE...2