THREE goals in as many minutes either side of half time guided Chorley to victory and their third succcessive win.

The Magpies had trailed to Tom Greaves 27th opener but the match was turned on its head when Alex Porter scored from the spot after Chris Mason was tripped a minute before the break.

The teams appeared to be heading in to half time on level terms but Steve Burke fired Chorley ahead with a powerful drive from the edge of the area.

And it got even better soon after the restart when Smalley played in Mason to score.

Both sides created chances but neither keeper was really tested.

It has been a belated happy new year for Chorley who have jumped from 12th to ninth in the UniBond League Division One North.

Two new signings made their debuts.

Defender David Thompson, just released by Bury, played a part in Mason’s goal, while 6ft 6in striker Craig Worrall, from Colne, showed some good touches after coming off the bench for Burke in the last few minutes.

Former Prescot Cables midfielder Aiden Kirkbride, still anxious to make his debut, was unavailable because of a prior exam commitment.

It was the first time since the 2-1 success over North Ferriby United in April 2003 that Chorley have completed a run of three league victories on the bounce.