PADIHAM’S Lancashire Challenge Trophy campaign got off to a flying start with a thumping victory over Atherton Laburnum Rovers.

The Storks were by far the better side on a tricky pitch soaked by heavy rain.

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Josh Emmett gave Steve Wilkes’ side the lead on 21 minutes, before an own goal and a strike from Martin Parkes gave them a 3-0 lead at the break.

Kieron Pickup netted a fourth and new signing Daley Woods, returning to the club from a spell in the Welsh National League Premier Division with Mold, made it 5-0.

Moses Yoak got a consolation for the home side in the final minute.

The Storks are now into the quarter-finals and the competition has opened up with a shock defeat for AFC Fylde, who have won three of the last five Challenge Trophies. They lost 2-0 at home to Ashton Athletic.

AFC Darwen are out though after going down 4-3 at Lancaster City.

Bobby Langford put the Salmoners ahead, but Zach Clark and Ryan Winder scored to put the hosts ahead at the break.

Paul Marriott’s side hit back with Paul Coote levelling the scores on the hour mark, before Nick Hepple gave them the lead.

But they couldn’t hold on with Charlie Russell netting an equaliser and Daniel Carlton snatching victory for the home side three minutes from time.