Nantwich Town suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat away at Stalybridge Celtic despite a spirited performance in the opening 2017-18 league game.
Dave Cooke’s much changed side from the one which finished the previous campaign under Phil Parkinson, was forced to soak up lots of pressure in front of almost 500 fans at Bower Fold.
Nantwich did pose a threat going forward on the break, with Mullarkey, Stair and Davies all seeing attempts on goal thwarted.
But it was a goal a minute before half-time that proved decisive.
The hosts forced a corner, and from the set piece Alex Honeyball rose to power a header home into the top corner, giving Dabbers keeper Fabian Spiess no chance.
Nantwich huffed and puffed after the break, and Joel Stair went close with a header on 67 minutes.
They introduced player-coach Steve Jones (pictured) in the 74th minute for his 100th appearance for the club.
But the visitors could not find a way past a stubborn Celtic defence who held on for the three points.
Nantwich will be looking to put that right tomorrow night (August 15) when they welcome Phil Parkinson’s new side Altrincham to the Weaver Stadium.
With several Dabbers players from last season now lining up for Altrincham, it is set to be tasty affair.
Kick off 7.45pm.
Nantwich have another home league game this coming Saturday August 19, Workington Town making the journey down from Cumbria.
More details, visit Nantwich Town FC.
(Pictures courtesy of Jonathan White)
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