WAYNE Riley produced a moment of magic to earn Northwich Victoria a fifth successive win in league and cup.

The substitute curved a perfect free kick into the top corner from distance with just four minutes left, rescuing the hosts after they squandered a two-goals half time lead.

Without a points penalty for entering administration Andy Preece’s men would be second in the standings behind Droylsden tonight.

They led when Mat Bailey crashed in a volley on 21 minutes, Mark Danks extending his scoring streak after the half hour with a simple header from close range.

Both goals came direct from Ian Herring throws.

But Harrogate Town, fielding four debutants, were level within five minutes of the second half.

Former Vics front man Trevor Benjamin knew little about a rebound off Curtis Aspden that hit him and rolled over the line on 47 minutes.

He scored from the spot – after Nat Kerr was judged to have shoved Curtis Woodhouse – two minutes later.

Vics fluffed a penalty after Danks had been floored by Ben Chapman’s ill-timed tackle, Jonny Allan seeing his free hit saved by keeper Stephen Hernandez low to his left.

Riley spared his blushes with a fine late winner.

Match report to follow..