Congleton Town kicked off the new North West Counties Football League campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory against Squires Gate.

The Bears were 2-1 down entering the closing stages, but late goals from Dan Cope and Jonathon Beaumont sealed a memorable comeback.

The visitors opened the scoring with a penalty in the 14th minute before Aaron Bott equalised with a spot-kick of his own.

Squires Gate regained the lead just after the 70 minute mark, but playing in front of their own fans, the Bears staged a late fightback and stunned the visitors.

Bears' scheduled game at Ashton Athletic tomorrow (Tuesday) is off due to Covid issues with the home team.