Radcliffe 0, Chorley 3: Magpies secure superb away win

Chorley produced a dominant display to secure a 3-0 victory away at Radcliffe, with goals from Harvey Smith, Elliot Taylor and Sam Fielding sealing an emphatic three points.

The hosts finished the contest with nine men after defenders Charlie Raglan and Josh Seary were both sent off in the second half.

Andy Preece’s side made the perfect start, taking the lead inside the opening minute. Adam Blakeman delivered a cross into the Radcliffe six-yard box, where Smith found himself unmarked and headed home from close range.

Chorley doubled their advantage in the 29th minute following an excellent move. Steven Bala showcased his skill on the left before slipping an outside-of-the-boot pass into Billy Whitehouse’s path. Whitehouse then drove the ball across the area, where Taylor finished confidently.

Radcliffe’s task became more difficult in the 57th minute when Raglan was shown a straight red card. Bala again created the opening, playing Rowe through on goal, and the defender brought the forward down as the last man.

The Magpies capitalised almost immediately. Their high press forced goalkeeper Tom Donaghy into a loose pass, which Fielding intercepted before firing a first-time finish into the net in the 59th minute.

Radcliffe were reduced to nine men when Taylor turned Seary near halfway and the full-back pulled him back as the last defender, earning a second red card for the hosts.

Chorley controlled the remained of the game to see out an impressive away win and will now turn their attention to Saturday’s trip to Spennymoor Town.

Chorley: Oram, Moore, Hunt, Smith, Blakeman, Fielding (Horbury 83), Rowe, Calveley, Bala, Whitehouse (Cummins 85), Taylor (Popoola 83). Subs not used: Bird, Denning, Ellis, Stowell.