ATHERTON Collieries return top North West Counties League First Division action tomorrow looking to put their midweek cup disappointment behind them.

Colls have rarely had to deal with defeat this campaign but exited the Lancashire Challenge Trophy at the semi-final stage when two late goals secured a 2-0 triumph for Clitheroe on Tuesday.

Michael Clegg's side now have two home games in three days with Eccleshall first up tomorrow before Chadderton visit Alder House on Monday night (7.45pm) and victories in both could see Colls go top of the league.

And the boss remains upbeat despite the midweek reverse when his team were not at their fluent best against a team from two divisions higher.

Clegg said: "I said to our secretary, if we are going to lose one of our three cup semi-finals, I’d rather it be the Clitheroe game.

“That’s not to say we’re not disappointed. That’s the first time in 38 games we have not scored.

"Consider the players’ reactions too – Kris Holt was gutted.

"He has been controlling games all season and was furious he couldn’t do so on Tuesday.”

Colls will be hoping Daisy Hill can give 15th-placed Chadderton the runaround tomorrow ahead of their trip to Alder House on Monday.

Daisy have lost their last three games, failing to score in each, but will be buoyed by the news club-favourite Daniel Gregory is nearing a return.

“Daniel is a local lad who loves the club. He was our top scorer three years ago; getting at least 40 goals,” said Daisy manager Craig Thomas.

“He’s finally over a thyroid condition and should be available for midweek games.”

A win could propel Daisy back into fourth spot.

Atherton LR, meanwhile, have the weekend off.