While a second-half fight back from Chester FC made the scoreline more respectable in the 3-2 defeat at Barrow, the Blues failed to reach anywhere near the heights of seven days previous against Dagenham & Redbridge.
While an improvement of sorts on the defeat to Maidstone United on Saturday, the issues that have dogged the Blues so far this season were evident once again.
We've rated the contributions of the Blues players from last night. Some fare much better than others.
LIAM ROBERTS – 7/10
Have to feel a bit sorry for Roberts. The goals against column shows he has shipped nine goals in four games but, in truth, he has been Chester's most consistent performer. Made some crucial stops again last night and continues to improve.
EVAN HORWOOD – 6/10
While he put in some decent deliveries on the odd occasion and didn't make any glaring errors the back four were pulled all over the place at times and Horwood couldn't make his experience count.
RYAN ASTLES – 6/10
The defensive unit as a whole struggled and while Astles did his bit to win some aerial duels the mobile Ross Hannah exposed the lack of mobility at the heart of defence. Was guilty of wasting possession more than once.
BLAINE HUDSON – 5/10
Another to struggle against a front line with pace and guile. Looked shaky from the start and never managed to stamp his authority on the game.
THEO VASSELL – 5/10
Scored a late goal to set up a grandstand finish but was targeted by Barrow and was given a tough time by Williams, looking tentative throughout.
WADE JOYCE – 5/10
Was never really in the game and didn't make the most of his chance to shine. Was too wasteful in possession and couldn't assert himself in the centre of the park.
TOM SHAW – 5/10
Another who couldn't make his experience tell. Looked bright early on but faded as the game wore on and the midfield were too easily bypassed.
JORDAN CHAPELL – 6/10
Sometimes comes in for unfair criticism. He tried last night but never looked like unlocking the Barrow defence. Wasted a good opportunity late on.
JOHNNY HUNT – 6/10
Worked hard for the cause but found it difficult to get into space in wide areas. Put in a shift, though, and was one of the better performers.
ELLIOTT DURRELL – 6/10
Before his howler of a back pass Durrell was probably the best player on the pitch and was inventive for the opening 30 minutes or so. After his mistake, though, his head went down and he never recovered.
KANE RICHARDS – 6/10
A lot of running from Richards but couldn't make any in roads into a Barrow defence that, in truth, wasn't all that. Wasted a great chance to level the scores at the death with a header. Needed a foil.
SUBSTITUTES
RYAN LLOYD – 7/10
A return for Lloyd and he was just as energetic as he was last time out. Gave the Blues an outlet and is surely set for a start at Boreham Wood. Inventive and full of energy.
JAMES AKINTUNDE – 7/10
One goal and one assist on 20 minutes. Between him and Lloyd they changed the complexion of the game and almost hauled Chester back from the brink. Caused Barrow headaches with his movement and should start at Boreham Wood.
