FC United clinch first promotion

They defeated Chadderton 4-0 at Gigg Lane - their 25th win in 33 games - to secure promotion from the North West Counties Second Division.

A crowd of 2,788 saw Karl Marginson's team take the lead through Steve Torpey before Robert Nugent headed the second.

William Ahern and Rory Patterson completed the scoring for United.

The club have not yet won the title but seem certain to do so and Marginson was delighted with the progress his side have made.

"When you look back as far as trials day in July it is amazing how far we have come," said Marginson, who had to cut short the celebrations because his grocery round was due to start at 4am the following day.

"The planning for next season probably began about four months ago.

"We have to enjoy what we have achieved but then look at the next challenge."

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