Chorley 1 Buxton 2: Magpies left frustrated in Trophy exit
Chorley exited the FA Trophy after a late Buxton winner condemned them to defeat in the second round of the competition.
Led by chairman Jamie Vermiglio, following Andy Preece's departure to Scunthorpe United, the home side pushed for a second equaliser but could not find a way through on a frustrating afternoon.
Despite a spirited second-half response, which saw midfielder Kian Scales turn the ball into his own net, goals from former Chorley midfielder, Malakai McKenzie and Sisa Tuntulwana ensured the visitors booked their place in the next round.
Buxton took the lead after 13 minutes when McKenzie collected possession in midfield, drove towards the Chorley penalty area and fired smartly past Li-Bau Stowell.
The Magpies had opportunities to draw level before the break, with George Horbury releasing Warren Clarke with an inch-perfect pass, only for the winger's effort to be saved.
Jack Moore also came close with a free-kick that Logan Stretch did well to tip away.
Chorley eventually found an equaliser in the 65th minute. Lewis Salmon launched a long throw into the box, and although his effort appeared to be heading wide, it took a deflection off Scales and found the net.
However, Buxton restored their advantage seven minutes from time. Substitute Tuntulwana did well to retain possession following a throw-in before receiving the ball back inside the area and firing into the roof of the net at Stowell's near post.
Chorley return to National League North action on Tuesday evening with an away trip to Bedford Town.
CHORLEY: Stowell, Moore, Smith, Hunt, Blakeman (Salmon 37), Fielding (Popoola 84), Calveley, Horbury, Clarke, Wilson, Taylor. Subs not used: Whitehouse, Rowe, Bird.