BLUES MATCH REPORT - Marine 0 - 2 Chester FC

Chester FC rounded off their pre-season schedule with a victory against Marine.

The Blues had the first chance of the game as Declan Weeks pounced on a sloppy passed and released Charlie Caton, his low drive being saved by Marine’s Trialist ‘keeper.

Marine though started to grow into the game and were creating chances in a strong workout for Calum McIntyre’s men.

First, Manasse Mampala drove into the box and curled one just wide – before Wyll Stanway made a good save to deny Darius Osei moments later.

Chester then hit back, Harrison Burke in midfield played a nice pass over the top for Caton who cut inside and then fired just over.

But they did find the net just after the half hour mark. Joel Taylor’s cross from the left was met by the head of Caton – who was denied by a strong save – nevertheless Elliott Whitehouse was on hand to bury the rebound.

The hosts looked to respond, Joseph Ferguson linking up well with Mampala, before flashing his shot over. Then Mampala made the most of the space afforded him as Liam Edwards appeared to be fouled, but Kieran Coates was across to make a crucial block.

Chester took control in the second half and could have made the scoreline an even bigger one.

Stanway’s long kick on 49 minutes released Caton who lobbed the ball over the ‘keepers head and also the crossbar. Then the lead was doubled on 65 minutes.

It was good work from the ever-classy Weeks in the build up, which ended with Coates cutting back for Trialist to score, despite Ferguson’s best attempts at a handball save on his own goalline.

Zak Goodson really should have made it three just off the bench however the ‘keeper was equal to his shot when clean through.

Another introduced substitute Reece Daly then went close twice, seeing his header from Iwan Murray’s corner cleared off the line, before a curling attempt was tipped over the bar.

Murray and Weeks both had opportunities before the full time whistle – but an impressive showing from the hosts’ goalie kept the score at two when the full time whistle arrived.

Chester: Stanway, Coates (Bott 88), Edwards (Daly 76), Heywood, Taylor (Earl 46), Burke, Weeks, Whitehouse, Murray, Hall (Trialist 46), Caton (Goodson 73).

Scorers: Whitehouse 32, Trialist 65.

Attendance: 729.