Huge credit also has to go to the ground staff for producing a tremendous playing surface after a deluge of rain. The game itself was evenly matched for the first half, but the visitors executed a perfect smash and grab in the second half against the run of play to take all three points.

Both sides set out at a canter but it was Prescot who took the lead on 15 minutes with a cross from the left controlled and scored by Rob Doran, showing perfectly why he is on so many clubs’ wanted list. The home team were not fazed by conceding a goal and started to impose themselves.

On 26 minutes, Kurt Willoughby and Alex Newby had shots saved, whilst on 30 minutes Newby had another shot well saved. Two minutes later, Joe Mitchell had a mazy run which ended in a lob just over the bar. Dimitri Tuanzebe, Danny Brady and Brad Knox also had further chances before the half time whistle, but their efforts were matched by Prescot who looked dangerous throughout the first 45 minutes.

In the second half, almost immediately after the break, Willoughby missed the clearest chance when a mistimed pass from the keeper, saw Tuanzebe roll the ball to him, but he put the ball wide of a gaping goal.

Parity was restored on 53 minutes when Newby was fouled in the box and Brad Carroll converted. Pressure was now building and the introduction of new loan signing George West up front alongside Mo Cham, added even more to the Blues’ goal threat. Half a dozen chances fell Clitheroe’s way, but it was almost pre-ordained when after soaking up all the pressure, Prescot received a lucky break as a rebound caught the home side flat footed and another cross and finish saw the visitors back in the lead.

There were no further clear cut chances for the Blues, and whilst Prescot celebrated with their fans, the home contingent were left to rue chances missed.

Chris Thompson, Brad Knox, James Walker, Gareth Roberts, Danny Brady (c), Dylan Smith, Joe Mitchell (Andrew Hill), Brad Carroll, Kurt Willoughby (George West), Alex Newby, Dimitri Tuanzebe (Mo Cham). Subs - George West, Mo Cham, Andrew Hill. Not used - Robbie Bromley, Ollie Stirzaker