Chester FC: First-half 'sloppiness' cost us against Hednesford Town, says Neil Young

Jan 22 2012 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle

NEIL Young was left counting the cost of a ‘sloppy’ first half as Chester FC’s outright lead at the top was eradicated and 27-game unbeaten home run ended.

Hednesford Town's third victory over Young’s side this season moved them level at the summit and ensured they became the first team to win at the Exacta Stadium since December 2010.

But the Blues boss felt they were handed the three points.

Young said: “We gave sloppy goals away last week and we have done the same this week.

“Ultimately the sloppiness of some of our play in the first half has cost us the game but I couldn’t fault them second half in what were very difficult conditions.

“We had a right go and had some great opportunities to pull the game level but we just didn’t manage to do it.

“If somebody tells me Hednesford deserved to win I’ll show you a liar because we definitely deserved to get something.”

The Pitmen’s exuberant celebrations after becoming the first club to do the league double over Chester since their rebirth riled Young.

He said: “It was very naive of them to celebrate the way they did at the end – it was if they had won the league. I’m pretty sure we’re top.

“We’re disappointed we’ve lost three points but it’s a long season.”

The Blues were not at their best in the opening period of the top-of-the-table clash, which was spoiled somewhat by strong winds swirling around the ground.

But their cause was not helped by injuries to players in areas in which they are already short.

Right-back Liam Brownhill was ruled out 90 minutes before the match with a hamstring problem while Lev Mackin came off with a similar shoulder injury to the ones sustained by Ashley Williams and Michael Wilde earlier this season.

Mackin is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines although Young is hopeful the midfielder will feature again before the campaign is out.

Chester will bid to bounce back on Saturday when they entertain relegation-threatened Mickleover Sports (3pm).