Boro end Rebels' treble dreams

By Marc Higginson

Radcliffe Borough 3 FC United 1

RADCLIFFE Borough booked a second cup final appearance of the season with a well-earned victory over neighbours FC United.

Boro had to come from behind after Chris Baguley's 25-yard strike had put the treble-chasing Rebels in front on 32 minutes in the Manchester Cup semi-final clash at Stainton Park.

That was tough on Radcliffe, who hit the bar twice before their high-flying UniBond Division One North rivals had opened the scoring.

But Peter Coyne's side roared back after the break and were level within four minutes when Steve Howson smashed home the rebound after goalkeeper Sam Ashton could only parry Tony Whealing's free-kick.

Boro, rooted to the bottom of the table, took the lead on 59 minutes when Michael Oates tapped home Whealing's cross from the left.

And victory was sealed nine minutes later when Oates outstripped his marker to add a third and set up a final showdown with Blue Square North outfit Hyde United at Oldham Athletic's Boundary Park ground.

10:32pm
Tuesday 18th March 2008