WALSHAW played an important role in the Manchester League Premier Division title race after pulling off a shock 3-0 win at second-placed Royton Town.

Royton have an outside chance of catching leaders Prestwich Heys but their hopes were dealt a serious blow by mid-table Walshaw.

Paul Snape put them ahead with a jinking run and shot.

Walshaw cut through at will in the opening stages and should have been two up but Mario Daniel hit the keeper with his effort when one-on-one.

Injury forced Daniel off at the break and he was replaced by debutant Joe Newton.

But this did not disrupt the pattern of play, with the midfield trio of Brad Howarth, Tino Blake and Rob Taylor keeping a tight grip on the game.

Chances continued to be created and at the other end the defence was superbly marshalled by captain Lee Chapman and man of the match Baz Campbell.

Walshaw gave themselves some breathing space when Danny McHugh broke through and lifted his shot over the on-rushing keeper to make it 2-0 on 75 minutes.

Five minutes later the points were in the bag as Blake smashed home from close range. smashed home from close range to give Walshaw a thoroughly deserved three points.