Clitheroe 1-0 Prescot Cables
Ross Dent’s first goal since his return to Shawbridge extended the Blues’ winning start.

The midfielder tapped in with an hour gone to make it back-to-back league victories for David Lynch’s men as they ended Cables’ 100 per cent start to the season. The Merseysiders hadn’t conceded a goal in their opening three games in league and cup but were undone when substitute Terry Cummings teed up Dent to slot home for the first time since his summer return from Stalybridge. The Blues’ back line, including new signing Jimmy Mutton, then went on to keep a clean sheet as Clitheroe secured all three points in their first home game since March in front of an excellent crowed of 372.

Although the first half was scoreless it wasn’t short of chances in a physical contest and Blues keeper Chris Thompson was relieved to keep out a long-range effort from Sean Muller. There was also a penalty shout from the visitors following Gary Stopforth’s challenge on Ethan Van-Aston but nothing was given. Prescott threatened again through Dale Korie- Butler as he dribbled through without really testing Thompson and Vast-Aston also shot wide. But the Blues had openings themselves following an impressive start.

And their best chance of the opening half came as debutant Eddie Maieco cut inside from the wing and dribbled into the area before firing a ball into the danger area which was smothered by Cables keeper Mitchell Allen. Clitheroe then started the second half strongly, Keilan Adams finds himself in acres of space down the left before lifting his shot over the bar. And Lynch’s men got their reward when midfielder Dent timed his arrival in the box in typical fashion to tuck away the winner.
Substitute Craig Hobson could have killed the game off when Dent crossed low from the left but striker couldn’t get a shot away.
And the Blues survived one late scare as Korie-Butler hit the woodwork before the visitors finished the game with 10 men as as John Egerton was sent off for a late lunge.

Team : Chris Thompson, Markell Foulds, Cole Lonsdale, Gary Stopforth, James Mutton, Billy Priestley (c), Braulio Maieco, Ross Dent, Kielen Adams (Craig Hobson), Kieran Feeney (Danny Wilkins), Conor Gaul (Terry Cummins). Subs - Terry Cummins, Danny Wilkins, Craig Hobson. Not used - Hyuga Tanner, Danny Pilkington