Prestwich Heys 3-1 at Runcorn Town to march on in FA Cup

Prestwich Heys produced an impressive away performance to defeat Runcorn Town 3-1 and advance in the FA Cup on 22 August 2026. The visitors took control early and never looked back, delivering a clinical attacking display that left the home side chasing the game from the opening stages.

The result was a statement of intent from Prestwich Heys, who arrived at Runcorn Town with a clear game plan and executed it superbly. Their pressing game, quick transitions, and finishing efficiency made the difference on a night when the cup competition served up an entertaining tie.

First-half dominance

Prestwich Heys took the lead inside the opening 20 minutes, converting a sharp counter-attack with precision. They doubled their advantage before the half-hour mark, this time from a set piece, as the away side's physical presence in the box caused problems for the Runcorn defence. The visitors could have added more before the break, but a combination of good goalkeeping and wayward finishing kept the score at 2-0.

Second-half story

Runcorn Town came out after the interval with renewed energy and pulled a goal back to make it 2-1, setting up a potentially dramatic finish. The home crowd responded, urging their team forward in search of an equaliser. But Prestwich Heys showed composure, absorbing the pressure before sealing the win with a superb third goal late on.

Key facts from the tie

• Away team efficiency: Prestwich Heys scored with three of their most clear-cut chances.
• Set-piece threat: The decisive second goal highlighted their organisation at dead-ball situations.
• Runcorn's fightback: A spirited spell after half-time made the contest competitive but ultimately not enough.

Looking ahead

For Prestwich Heys, this win represents another positive chapter in their FA Cup journey, and they will approach the next round with genuine optimism. Runcorn Town, meanwhile, will rue a slow start that left them with too much to do, despite showing character in the second half.