Clitheroe 3 Chorley 1: Magpies bow out of LFA Challenge Trophy after Blues’ fast start
Chorley exited the Lancashire Challenge Trophy after suffering defeat to Clitheroe at the Loft Loom Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Goals from Jason Gilchrist, Jordan Carroll and an own goal put the hosts in control, with Adam Blakeman’s second-half free-kick proving only a consolation for the Magpies.
The hosts made a fast start and were awarded a penalty inside six minutes after Mark Ellis was adjudged to have brought down Alhagi Touray inside the area.
Gilchrist stepped up and confidently converted from the spot to give Clitheroe the lead.
Matters became even tougher just three minutes later when the hosts doubled their advantage. A ball was played across the Magpies’ penalty area and, under pressure, it was inadvertently turned into his own net by a Chorley defender.
Andy Preece’s side looked to respond and created opportunities, but Clitheroe continued to threaten on the break.
Chorley came out with greater attacking intent after the interval and pulled a goal back in the 67th minute through Blakeman. The defender produced a superb free-kick from more than 30 yards, finding the bottom corner to give the Magpies hope of completing a comeback.
Chorley pushed for an equaliser, with Steven Bala twice forcing saves from Liam Isherwood, but Clitheroe restored their two-goal advantage in the 80th minute.
Jordan Windass delivered a corner towards the near post, where Carroll rose highest to head home.
The Magpies now return to Enterprise National League North action on Saturday, when Spalding United visit Victory Park.
Chorley: Stowell, Whitehouse, Ellis (Hunt 66), Bird, Blakeman (Moore 72), Horbury (Denning 81), Rowe, Salmon (Cummins 84), Bala, Sampson (Clarke 72), Popoola.