Nantwich Town were beaten 1-0 by 10-man Marine who produced a smash-and-grab against a dominate Dabbers.
Danny Johnson (pictured) and his players were left scratching their heads after an 85th minute goal gave the hosts an undeserved victory.
Until that point, Nantwich had largely dominated and carved out the best chances even before Marine were reduced to 10 men when Tony Rendell was dismissed in the 73rd minute.
But despite Dabbers pressure, it was the Crosby outfit who stole the three points when Joe Fowler converted a cross to beat Terry Smith from close range.
Johnson told Nantwichnews: “I’m obviously disappointed at the outcome of the game as I felt we deserved to come away with at least a point if not all three.
“However you don’t always get what you deserve but our performance last night was very pleasing and without any question out best overall performance of the season so far.
“The lads are as disappointed as anyone and they acknowledge that they need to improve in both penalty boxes.
“We will continue to work hard in the training pitch and I assure everyone connected with Nantwich Football Club that I will get this project back on track and bring the success our magnificent supporters deserve.”
Nantwich had the ball in the net early in the game at the Arriva Stadium when Russ Courtney turned a loose ball in the box into the goal, but he was flagged for offside.
And new signing Stephen Johnson, who played three seasons at Marine, was a constant menace out wide, testing the host keeper Callum Williams on several occasions.
Before his sending off, Rendell had produced a string of tackles to deny Aaron Burns.
Fowler and Dean Astbury also had chances for Marine, before Thomas Moore crashed a free-kick against the Marine post just before the break.
Adam Carden and Aaron Burns had further chances in the second half, but were off target.
And when Rendell was sent off for a second yellow card, the travelling Nantwich faithful were hopeful pressure would turn to points.
But Fowler produced the late late show which has left the Dabbers to rue their missed opportunities.
Nantwich Town: Terry Smith, Alex Frost (Cap), Danny Caldecott, Oliver Devaney (Chris Amadi 89), Sam Wilson, Russ Courtney, Adam Carden (Max Harrop 77), Mark Jones, Aaron Burns (Harry Clayton 89), Thomas Moore, Stephen Johnson.
(pic by Simon J Newbury Photography)
Recent Comments