YOUTH REPORT | Chester 0-1 Grimsby Town

Chester were eliminated from the FA Youth Cup tonight despite a brave effort against Grimsby Town at the Deva.

A first half goal was the difference but the Blues pressed hard for a leveller and struck the crossbar in the second 45; but couldn’t quite find their equaliser late on.

There were a couple of half chances early on, but Chester went closest on 12 minutes. Captain Ollie Heywood swung in a dangerous free kick which found the head of Jay Lee, however his effort flew inches wide of the post.

The opener arrived seven minutes later and it was to the visitors. Harvey Tomlinson’s dangerous cross wasn’t quite held by Blues stopper Joe Smith, and Edwin Essel was on hand to slam home the loose ball.

Opportunities were few and far between as the half progressed, although Josh Maris did test the Mariners’ Tom Jacobs when he swiveled and shot following a Sol Ashworth long throw – nevertheless the keeper was able to hold the attempt.

Essel nearly made it a brace five minutes into the second half as a loose ball dropped kindly for him in the area, but Smith made a strong save.

Chester then struck the woodwork on 65 minutes. Immediately off the bench Dan Collins made the forward run and set up Ashworth, his fantastic whipped effort from 25-yards had the keeper beaten but just clipped the crossbar on the way over.

At the other end, Smith then made a magnificent save for the Blues to keep them in the game, getting down to his right to tip Harvey Tomlinson’s effort behind.

Late on the Blues nearly got level as sub Oliver Bavington drilled in an effort which was deflected inches wide by Grimsby defender Josh Sims.

However the visitors defence held firm and the Blues bowed out of the FA Youth Cup despite a valiant attempt.

CHESTER: Smith, Rg Daly, Lee, Buckley-Benbow, Nelson (Challinor 85), Griffiths (Collins 65), Ashworth, Heywood, Rc Daly, Maris (Bavington 80), Giani.

SUBS NOT USED: Beswick, Stark, Bradley, Peake.

SCORERS: Essel 19.

ATTENDANCE: 303.