DESPITE the margin of victory, it’s arguable that Middlewich Town groundsman Steve Morris was the biggest winner on Saturday.

Heavy rainfall washed away most of the sporting calender elsewhere, but the pitch at Seddon Street did not need inspecting.

And, after a slow start, the home team recovered to reach the last four of the Mid-Cheshire District FA Challenge Cup in comfort.

James Bolton had put the lower-ranked visitors in front after pinching the ball from goalkeeper Charles Masters, and the mood of Middlewich’s followers did not improve when Sam O’Sullivan missed a penalty shortly afterwards.

However once Town did level, when James Dean crossed for Michael Evans to score, they took control.

Dan Holdsworth blasted with power past Avenue’s goalkeeper to put his side in front, then Callum Priestley netted at the second attempt after his initial effort had been saved.

Dean took over spot kick duty in the second period, converting after Holdsworth was fouled, then Evans arced in a stunning free kick from distance.

Middlewich continued to create chances, and went further ahead when full-back Mike Whitehead’s shot deflected in off a retreating defender after rebounding off an upright.

Alex Goodwin scored a first goal for the club when he shot low from close range, then Dean increased Town’s tally to eight after substitutes Sam Wakefield and Ross Speight had combined on the right.

Another replacement, Lewis Morana, completed the scoring from Wakefield’s cross.

They return to Cheshire League One duty this weekend, when fourth-placed Golborne are their guests.

The rivals are level in the table.

Middlewich reserves’ trip to West Didsbury A was postponed.