NEVER mind the wind, rain or hailstorm, Padiham FC's 4-1 West Lancashire Football League Division One away victory over Blackpool Rovers brought double delight.

Not only was it enough to keep the Storks in top spot, it also showed why they were worthy winners of their second Thwaites team of the month award, this time for the month of September.

Paul Hargreaves and Anthony McCluskey scored two goals apiece in what was Padiham's eighth away league victory of the season at the weekend, but what was equally as important was the performances of Edmondson, Allen and Littler in defence and Harrison in midfield along with goalkeeper Bobby Harris who made a number of telling saves during the game to prevent Blackpool Rovers having any say in the final outcome. Leading 3-1 at half time, Padiham consolidated their position in the second period, scoring a fourth midway through the half to secure victory.

Padiham Reserves game away to Springfields was postponed, but in midweek they beat derby rivals Burnley United Reserves 4-0 thanks to goals by Horrocks, Stevenson, Fletcher and Sharples.

Padiham A team beat Burnley and District Football League Premier Division rivals Flying Dutchman FC 3-1 at Fennyfold courtesy of goals by Mark Derbyshire (2) and Robert Johnson.

On Saturday, Padiham take a break from league football but continue their travels when they visit Spotland Reform Club in the Lancashire Amateur Shield competition in what will be their 16th consecutive competititive away fixture of the season.

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