PRESTWICH Heys bounced back from Saturday's shock Gilgryst Cup exit to Leigh Athletic to book their place in the Goldline Trophy final for the third time in four years on Monday night.

Heys manager Adie Moran branded his side's display against Leighas gutless', but was delighted with his team's response in the comfortable 2-0 victory over Euxton at Radcliffe Borough's ground.

Goals from Jonathan Lyons and Steve Howson secured victory on Monday night, and Heys even had the dubious fallback of missing two penalties.

"We played really well on Monday, and it was important for us to bounce back quickly," said Moran. "It's always great for the club and its supporters to play at the Reebok.

"I was at the Bolton Wanderers game there last night, and it made me realise how gutted I would have been if we hadn't qualified to play there.

"It just gives everyone a lift. We have a provisional date of March, 12 for the game and I hope we can put on a good show."

Heys return to league action this weekend determined to claw back some ground in the title race. A fixture pile-up has seen them lose ground at the top, and they currently lie ten points adrift of leaders Wythenshawe Amateurs. Heys, however, do have eight game in hand on Wythenshawe.

"It's frustrating to see the gap getting bigger, and not being able to do anything about it," said Moran. "It's worrying that we are so far behind. Games in hand are fine, but I would much rather have the points on the board. We play Breightmet on Saturday, and we know it will be a tough little derby and they will be out to put one over on us.

"But, we have the quality to beat them, as long as the lads maintain a high level of performance. We have a clutch of home game coming up, and we have to make sure that we get as many points as possible from them."

Heys are still without keeper Seb Roe and Damion Keegan, but have Howson back in the ranks after his short-term move back from Leek Town.

"We don't know how long we have Steve for, but he has come here to get games under his belt.

"He has lifted the squad, and took his goal well on Monday night. It's a pleasure to have him back."