Macclesfield FC continue their successful run of form with a 3-1 victory over Lancaster City.
The Silkmen came close to taking the lead inside six minutes when Paul Dawson skied his effort at the edge of the area.
In the 14th minute, Laurent Mendy tested the Lancaster keeper, Aidan Dowling, from distance which forced a save.
The Dolly Blues scored the opener on 18 minutes as the ball fell to Brayden Shaw who slotted home to make it 1-0.
Five minutes later, Macclesfield were awarded a penalty after Justin Johnson was fouled inside the area. Danny Elliott scored from 12 yards to bring the away side back on level terms.
The second half saw Robbie Savage’s team push for a lead, aiming to make it seven games unbeaten.
Dawson once again came close to adding his name on the scoresheet when he smartly shot his free kick under the wall which pressured an important stop from the keeper.
In the 52nd minute, Elliott grabbed his second goal of the match and gave the Silkmen the lead, making it his eighth game to score two or more goals in a match this season.
Macclesfield soon gained a two-goal cushion as after Mellor’s effort was denied by the keeper, Elliott succeeded from the rebound to secure his hat-rick.
Lancaster City had an opportunity to get back into the game in the 73rd minute when Lewis Mansell was fouled by Max Dearnley in the penalty area.
Luckily, for the visitors, Sam Bailey failed to score from the spot kick as his shot smashed against the post before the ball was cleared out of danger.
The Silkmen are 23 points ahead in the Northern Premier League as the title is within touching distance if they continue their winning streak.
Macclesfield return to the Leasing.com Stadium on Saturday as they take on 18th-placed Matlock Town.
By Charlie Oxtoby
