JOHN Lister's men maintained their march up the North West Counties Division Two with an impressive victory over third placed Alsagar.

It was Colne's fifth successive unbeaten game - their fourth win on the bounce - and the three points takes them up to seventh spot in the table.

"John's got a very young side but they are playing with a great deal of confidence now and they thoroughly deserved the win," said chairman Dave Blacklock.

"Alsagar are a good outfit and we always knew that this would be a stern test for the lads but they came through it well."

With James Webster unavailable Lister had to change the side around and, in a first half of few chances, Colne's defending was impressive.

The visitors' had the bulk of the play without being able to break down Colne's stubborn backline.

It was a different story in the second half with Colne getting on top, despite having to substitute the injured Ben Callon at half time.

Lister headed them in front after 65 minutes after a cross from the right.

Ten minutes later Gavin Cooper went on a mazy run, cut into the box and knocked the ball goalward for striker Paul Files to make sure with the final touch.

Files gabbed his second five minutes from the end from a Colne corner to make the points safe.

Alsagar, however, had the final word with a late goal that was little more than a consolation.

Colne entertain Chadderton on Wednesday eager to make amends for the 7-0 drubbing they suffered there earlier this season.

RESULT: COLNE...3 ALSAGAR...1