Stalybridge crash out of the FA Cup

Stalybridge Celtic's FA Cup adventure is over without much more than a whimper after defeat.

After just easing past West Didsbury & Chorlton via a midweek replay, Celtic would have hoped for a long over due cup run. It wasn't to be. Despite having far more of the ball in this game Celtic just didn't do enough.

Celtic did start well and Marine were pinned into their half for the opening 15 minutes. Liam MacDevitt, starting his first game of the season had a glorious chance. His effort looped over the keeper and looked destined for a goal, but a last ditch goal-line clearance denied him. Only moments later and against the run of play Marine were in front with their first attack. Ex Curzon Ashton forward Niall Cummins the scorer after tapping in from close range from a cross. 

The goal shook Celtic, and they lost their pattern of play but still managed to create a few half chances. Valentine firing a long range effort that was well saved. Before Neil Kenghi saw an effort denied by a smart save by Shamal George. The second half saw Celtic attack up Mottram Road, and in truth Marine superbly shut up shop and looked a threat on the counter. In one of their few chances Tony Whitehead saw a header cleared off the line following a corner. Alex Fojticek superbly saved a Marine counter attack as his save was tipped onto the post. Centre half Adam Freeland was brought on up front to add an aerial threat for Celtic. But Marine's defence was excellently marshalled. Then with 5 minutes left Marine killed any Celtic hopes. After stealing the ball in the centre circle Marine countered with pace. Substitute Rumenio Barai tapping in for a mirror of the first goal. Another sorry FA Cup for Celtic who must now turn back to league action.