THE football resumed after the Christmas break and the lack of games showed, as Prestwich put in a dismal first half performance in this first round President's Cup game.

The impressive AFC United were first to almost every ball, but there were few chances in the opening period for either side.

With no score registered at the break, things could only improve for the home side in the second half.

Jamie McAndrew was brought on for Gareth Barnes as the match got back underway, with Mike Hudson replacing Billy Cooper 10 minutes later.

The match finally came to life in the 65th minute when Macklin broke through the middle and put the visitors one up, as he fired a shot that went under Andy Bradley and into the net.

Straight from the restart, Prestwich pressed United and forced a corner.

The inswinging delivery was met at the near post by Sean Haslam who planted home a header to drag the scores level.

There were to be no more goals during normal time and after a quick break, extra-time got underway.

Prestwich took the lead for the first time when McAndrew pounced on a loose ball in the six yard box and slotted the ball past the keeper.

A goal to the good at the turn-a-round, all Prestwich had to do was hold on for 15 more minutes to book their place in the second round.

But United had other ideas, however. Bradley was called into action and he turned a powerful shot around the post at full stretch.

Then, when the AFC number nine was sent tumbling just inside the box soon after, the ref pointed to the spot to give the visitors the chance of a last minute equaliser.

Healey stepped up and although Bradley guessed right, the shot was just out of reach and the game was tied. And so to penalties.

United went first and took the lead. Chris Humphreys' drive down the centre was kept out by McMahon's legs.

Bradley then pulled off his first save to deny United and John Fiorentini calmly fired home to bring Prestwich level.

Bradley then pushed the next penalty on to the post, but there was an agonising wait as the ball trickled along the goal line until it passed harmlessly past the other post.

Defender Lee Russell then sent the keeper the wrong way to put the home side in front.

Although the next two kicks from United were scored, Chris Thomas was successful and it was left to Paul Mercer to score the penalty that sent Prestwich through to the next round.

Prestwich will now play the winners of Marauders and Goats Gate, who's game at the weekend was cancelled.