THE weather was the main winner at the weekend as heavy rain decimated the amateur football fixtures.

All but two Furness Premier League games were postponed and only one West Lancs fixture with South Cumbrian interest survived.

The investment by Sport England paid off at Bootle, with their Paul Wilson Memorial Trophy game against Haverigg United going ahead.

In a well-contested local derby, both sides gave their all but it was Haverigg who progressed.

Bradley Mayne put Haverigg ahead, but Rob Woodhouse scored a rare goal for the hosts to level matters at half-time.

After the break, United went 2-1 up through John Chmeil but Bootle had a great chance to equalise when Steven Robinson was sent off for handball. However, the resulting penalty from Steven Pritt was saved by Haverigg keeper Russell Lowe.

Lowe pulled off three fantastic saves to preserve his side's lead and Stuart Jeynes was outstanding at the back.

Chmeil’s second of the game increased Haverigg’s lead and Bootle scored with virtually the last kick of the game through Andrew Knowles as it ended 3-2 the visitors.

The other game that went ahead was rather one-sided as Premier Tiles Division One leaders Croftlands Park beat Haverigg United reserves 11-0.

Callum Allardyce had a field day, scoring four, while Matt Dean, Andrew Currie and Paul Shields each weighed in with two goals apiece. Paul Dogsy Marsh was also on target.

Croftlands are now nine points clear of nearest rivals Hawcoat Park A at the top of the table.

The only game to go ahead involving a local side in the West Lancashire League was on the plastic pitch at Ladybridge and GSK Ulverston Rangers had an afternoon to forget as they slumped to a 5-0 defeat. All the other games were postponed.