LIFE without Andy Gray, who was relieved of his managerial duties by the directors on Monday, started very brightly and indeed the new man in charge Chris Stammers, ably assisted by John Moran, has already changed the shape of the side – and served notice Burscough will play in a controlled manner with an emphasis on their passing and movement.

The scoreline flattered the home side and with a little bit of luck the Linnets could have gone in at half-time with a two-goal lead. They had two corners in the first two minutes and were taking the game to United, who looked a bit shell shocked.

In the 12th minute McEvilly went close with a shot just over the bar.

In midfield Chris Tyson was having a fine game as United tried to play through the visitors, most of their moves were easily cut out by the new combination of Connolly and Farley who had struck up a fine understanding.

The second half started with the home side pressing for an opener and in the 55th minute a simple clip over the central defenders put Norton through to slip the ball past Willis. In the 77th minute Wright beat keeper Willis from 25 yards. Cass replied with a shot from the edge of the box to give the visitors hope.

In the 89th minute Roca cut inside and beat the keeper with another unstoppable shot from 20 yards.