PADIHAM missed the chance to make it back-to-back Evo-Stik League Division One North wins as they fell to a 3-1 defeat at neighbours Bamber Bridge.

The relegation-threatened Storks were in the game for the majority of the match but in the end failed to take their chances.

The home side made a flying start when former Preston North End midfielder Paul McKenna volleyed them into a third minute lead.

But Padiham responded and were level midway through the half thanks to a fine solo goal from Bobby Langford.

Unfortunately the Storks couldn’t hold out until the interval as Alistair Waddecar put Bamber Bridge back in front five minutes before the break, finishing at the second attempt after his initial effort was kept out by visiting keeper Ross Dalton.

Steve Wilkes’ side continued to battle and came close to an equaliser when Glen Steele cleared a Jon Ross effort off the line.

But with nine minutes to go the hosts wrapped up the points when, with Padiham right back Paul Walsh lying injured on the turf, Andrew Bell headed home a left wing cross to complete the scoring.

There was more bad news for the Storks in the closing stages when Chris Turner collected a straight red card.

Elsewhere, Clitheroe drew 1-1 at home to Ossett Alion.

Simon Garner’s side, unbeaten in five matches, fell behind when Connor Bowyer put the visitors into a 33rd minute lead.

But the hosts responded after the break and were back on level terms when Jason Hart equalised from the spot midway through the second period. It was Hart’s third goal in as many games.

The draw leaves the Blues in 11th spot while Padiham remain bottom, four points adrift of New Mills.