ALSAGER Town had their goalkeeper Rob Powner to thank for their 1-0 win at Padiham on Saturday because quite simply he single handedly saved the day for the Cheshire based side with a string of saves late in the second half that totally frustrated the home side's attempts to end Alsager's unbeaten start to the season.

A gifted opening goal ten minutes into the first half came about when a poor headed back pass by Padiham's Jason Stubbs was intercepted by Alsager's Anthony Dutton and gratefully converted.

The same player should have had a second eight minutes later but failed to beat Padiham keeper Kirk Marsden when one on one.

Padiham also had their opportunities in the first half but missed two good openings when firstly Dean Stowe and secondly Craig Wilkinson headed wide when it looked easier to score.

In the second half Padiham had numerous attempts on goal but could not beat Powner who saved efforts from Robbie Smith, Dean Stowe, Ian Pilkington, Lee Chambers, Paul Fildes and then right at the end a close range header from Jamie Edmondson that had goal written all over it until the Alsager keeper stuck out his leg to deflect it away.

RESULT: PADIHAM... 0 ALSAGER TOWN... 1