Report: Chester 0-1 Clitheroe

Chester exited the Isuzu FA Trophy in the Second Round after a 1-0 defeat against Clitheroe at the Deva Stadium

Pat Jones had the Blues’ first opportunity as he cut inside and sent a drilled strike towards goal that forced Zac Hadi into a smart stop in the away goal.

Clitheroe took the lead just before the 20-minute mark as Harry Scarborough prodded into the back of the net from close-range.

The opening period was one of few clear-cut chances at either end, with Connor Woods coming the closest for the hosts as his header flew wide after P. Jones’ floated cross.

The first major chance after the break arrived as P. Jones crossed for Fin Roberts but his header was pushed away by Hadi.

Our number 18 got in behind the away defence just moments later but his low effort rolled just past the post.

Murray-Jones was called into action later in the half, firstly to deny Sam Olawumi’s header, and then to push away Jack Morris’ strike from just outside the area.

Morris forced the shot-stopper into another smart save a few minutes later, as his powerful headed effort was gathered by Murray-Jones.

The final chance of the contest fell to F. Roberts who glanced an effort wide from inside the box, and the Blues exited the Isuzu FA Trophy in the Second round.

CHESTER FC: Murray-Jones, Leak (K. Roberts 46′), J. Jones, Carson, Shorrock, Weeks (Leigh 46′), Bainbridge, Shrimpton, P. Jones, Zanzala (Peers 46′), Woods (F. Roberts 46′)

Subs not used: Kelly-Evans

Scorers: Scarborough 18′

Attendance: 1,381.