Report: Chester 1-3 South Shields

The Blues fell to defeat against South Shields at the Deva Stadium, as goals from Paul Blackett, Will Jenkins, and Cedwyn Scott earned all three points after a well-directed penalty from Connor Woods.

Cedwyn Scott had first meaningful chance of the contest but he sprayed over from just outside the box after six minutes.

The momentum was firmly with the Blues for the remainder of the opening period though, as the Mariners were pushed back by an energetic home press.

A triple chance saw Calum McIntyre’s side almost take the lead just after the 15-minute mark, as Jack Bainbridge firstly saw his chance pushed away by Tom Watson, before both Pat Jones and Dylan Mottley-Henry had shots blocked inside the area.

Tom Peers couldn’t quite find the right connection just minutes later when the ball was cut across the six-yard box by P. Jones.

Our number 18 had the final opportunity of the half as he found space but saw his drilled strike gathered by Watson, who impressed in the away goal throughout the opening period.

A fast start after the break saw Chester awarded a penalty as Mottley-Henry was pushed to the floor by visiting captain Robbie Tinkler.

Connor Woods made no mistake from the spot, dispatching with composure before showing off his trademark acrobatic celebration.

The Mariners grew into the contest as the second period progressed though, and levelled just before the hour-mark courtesy of talisman Paul Blackett.

Scott and Will Jenkins combined to square the ball for Blackett who finished with composure past Murray-Jones.

Jenkins was heavily involved again just seven minutes later as the clash was turned on its head at the Deva Stadium, as Sean McGurk crossed for the number 10 who glanced a headed effort into the corner.

A goal line clearance from Tom Leak held the lead to just one with 12 minutes remaining, when Alcock’s low cross was inadvertently played towards goal by Dion Kelly-Evans.

Ian Watson’s side did add a third shortly after, as Scott netted from close-range to secure total control of the contest.

Focus switches immediately to a Boxing Day trip to Shropshire for a clash with AFC Telford United.

Chester FC: Murray-Jones, K. Roberts (Woodthorpe 78′), Leak, Carson, Kelly-Evans, Woods (Weeks 66′), Leigh, Bainbridge, P. Jones (Murray 90+2′), Peers (F. Roberts 78′), Mottley-Henry.  

Subs not used:  Davies, Weeks, Woodthorpe, Shrimpton, Shorrock.

Scorers: Woods 49′, Blackett 57′, Jenkins 65′, Scott 79′

Attendance: 2,324 (97 away)