New Mills 1-0 Cheadle Town

Despite a spirited second-half performance, Cheadle Town fell to their third successive defeat with this narrow 0-1 loss at New Mills.

It was The Millers who threw the most telling punches in a first half that would see them score the only goal of the game. Mellor was called into serious action in the 10th minute as he beat away a fierce shot. He was also being kept very busy with the dangerous corners that New Mills where whipping in; a few had to be clawed away from under his crossbar.

He could do nothing about The Millers' goal on 23 minutes, though; a firm header at the near post that crashed in via the underside of the crossbar.

Nine minutes later and he was on hand again to prevent The Millers extending their lead, this time tipping over a shot after a neat move. Half-time, 1-0 to New Mills, and Cheadle still very much in the game.

Despite not creating a hatful of clear-cut chances, the second half was Cheadle's. Six minutes in and they should have drawn level: Arron Riley was put through one-on-one with the 'keeper but could only slide his chance just wide of the post.

With their increased industry and possession, Cheadle huffed, puffed and prodded and caused mild panic in the New Mills box again with just nine minutes to go. Michael Myers flew a great cross in from the right that; unfortunately there was nobody at hand to seize the 'keepers' flapped-at clearance and The Millers were able to scramble the ball away.

Another defeat, but a much-improved display of commitment today...particularly in the second half. As I left the ground I overheard a Millers fan say "blimey, that was hard work today", which I'm gonna take as positive testament to the team's effort.

Photos from today can be seen by clicking here

TEAM: Mellor, Heath, B Roberts, Clarke, A Roberts, Brocklehurst, Riley, Lindon, Hussain, Martin, Buchanan (Myers). Subs: Moore, Myers, James