Whitegate In Uphill Struggle.

<p>In difficult weather conditions & fielding an under strength side, Whitegate took on a very strong looking Chester Nomads team. Captain Martyn Boaler won the toss and despite the conditions decide kick up hill and against a very strong wind. Despite this Whitegate put in a very credible performance, defending resolutely against a Nomads who were testing the vistors back line at every opportunity. The gamble looked to have paid off until six minutes from the end of the half when the home side's pressure finally paid off, scoring from a corner just as it seemed Whitegate would go in at half time on level terms.

<p>In the second half whitegate really should have kicked on with the wind behind them & the slope with them. The introduction of Stuart Carlon back from injury gave the visitors extra impetus but without recognised strikers Whitegate were always going to struggle & surprisingly looked disjointed and were unable to press home any advantage. In the 78th minute chester increased their lead following a mistake in the box & with it went any chance of Whitegate drawing level.

<p>Veteran defender Nige Durose made a rare appearance for Whitegate, rolling back the years with some solid tackling before giving way for the more youthful Stuart Carlon.

<p>Man of the Match - Goalkeeper Tim Jones