Bloods lose ground in title race

Droylsden missed out on the opportunity to close the game on their title-chasing rivals on Saturday as they fell to defeat against Daisy Hill, losing 2-1 at the Butchers Arms Ground.

The visitors took the lead just five minutes into the game when Jacob Ridings fired past Jordan Latham and into the bottom left corner, seeing the Bloods concede another early goal.

Daisy Hill then had the opportunity to double their lead in the 28th minute, when Charlie Roberts’ cross was met by Scott Johnson, but it was safely collected by Latham.

The Bloods would find themselves back in the game shortly after, some good work from Fuad Kasali led to him picking out Harry Forshaw to convert for his third goal of the campaign. However, Daisy Hill would once again take the lead just before halftime, Liam Sheppard won a penalty before the resulting spot kick was converted by Kaiden Barlow.

Dave Pace’s side almost responded early into the second half, Kasali again making things happen, but his cross was just missed by the head of Nellson Van.

A quiet second half regarding opportunities, but Daisy Hill had the best chance to score when Nathan Bartram-Conway’s looping ball was met by substitute Luke Nicholls whose shot went just wide of the post.

Droylsden was reduced to pop shots from distance in the final stretches of the game, which did little to trouble the visitors as they held on to the win.

It’s a tough defeat to take for Droylsden, who looked to be back into the title race following last week’s victory. Even more frustrating as Atherton LR, who are second in the league, were also beaten at the weekend.

There are now only five games of the season left, beginning on Saturday with a trip to Holker Old Boys.