Results elsewhere did not go Clitheroe’s way as the Blues became ever more closely enmeshed in the four-way relegation battle after a poor performance.

Against an in form Chasetown side, Clitheroe’s backs were against the wall in the first half as they battled against a strong wind. As early as the fourth minute, Jordyn Fitton was heading off the line, and it was not until the ninth minute that Max Hazeldine’s shot was desperately blocked after a burst down the right and a great shield and lay-off from Harry Pratt. However, Chasetown were soon back in the box seat and minutes later, Ben Purdham was called upon to make a full stretch save after a Chasetown break and shot. Two minutes later Purdham had to make a point-blank block after a defensive error. In the final ten minutes, Chasetown had two firmly driven crosses which were begging to be converted, whilst Antoine Recizac was also coming to the fore as Clitheroe’s best player and he had two shots in the 39th and 41st minute when he could have tested the keeper more.

With the teams going in goalless, the home fans expected a Blue onslaught after the break, but it never materialised. Indeed, apart from a solid shot from Andreas Bianga in the 48th minute, it was Chasetown who followed up with a couple more solid chances. It was no surprise on 63 minutes when a firm cross from the left was steered home by the visitors. Clitheroe’s best chance came on 77 minutes, when great interplay by Clitheroe at close quarters saw a header cleared off the line. Still the visitors came and as Clitheroe sought an equaliser, a great burst behind the Clitheroe defence and an arrowed shot saw the lead doubled. A gloss was put on the score when a weak tackle saw a Chasetown player released and another run and shot sealed Clitheroe’s fate.

Team : Ben Purdham, Jay Jeffries (c), Cole Lonsdale, Michael Wilson, Andy Langford, Josh Gregory, Antoine Recizac, Andreas Bianga (Jacob Gregory), Harry Pratt, Max Hazeldine (George West), Jordyn Fitton (Harry Blackburn). Subs - George West, Harry Blackburn, Jacob Gregory. Not used - Cameron Terry.