IT was a bad day at the office on Saturday for Billinge as they crashed to a 5-1 defeat at Cheshire Football League Division One leaders Denton Town.

The home side went into the match with a 100 percent record, so it was always going to be a difficult task that wasn't helped by The Storks missing eight regulars though holidays and injuries.

Billinge's keeper Will White – who was superb throughout – was called into action in the seventh minute when he saved well to deny Aiden Hopkins.

The Storks responded well as Jamie Whittaker went close but on 20 minutes they went behind as a defensive mix-up gifted Joshua Rushby a goal.

The response from the visitors was excellent as they forced three corners in quick succession but couldn't force the ball over the line.

Moments later Rushby doubled his tally and Town's lead. The striker appeared at least two yards offside but was allowed to advance and finish past White.

Billinge's protestations led to their assistant manager Mark Filson being given a yellow card for questioning the decision.

The score remained 0-2 at the break and The Storks resumed the match in a positive mood as Cameron Lee couldn't quite get on the end of a fluid move.

Unfortunately, further injuries took their toll for Billinge and three goals in five minutes (between the 70th and 75th minutes) were the 'doing' of The Storks.

Richie Allen hit the bar, for the visitors, with a long-range effort before Ryan White – who was excellent on his debut – got a neat consolation goal.

But it was too little too late for the villagers.

After the game assistant manager Filson said: "We knew before the season that we would struggle during August with the number of games as most of the lads had booked holidays with their families, and we have always said we will be a different side when we have a full squad in September.

"That said, you don't expect decisions like that for their second goal just as we are trying to get back in the game.

"However, we were definitely second-best and the fact that our goalkeeper Will White got man-of-match tells you that."

The games continue thick and fast as Billinge face Parklands on Tuesday night and Knutsford on Saturday. Both games are at Barrows Farm.