Words: Pete Tscherewik, Images: Pete Tscherewik
CHORLEY continued their pre-season campaign with a 0-1 win against Squires Gate, securing the Children's Charity Cup at the Brian Addison Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The Magpies once again named a mixed squad, blending a small handful of senior players with trialists and youth prospects for their second outing of the summer.
Both sides took time to settle into the game, with chances at a premium in the early stages.
Chorley came close through 'Trialist C', only to be denied by a smart save from the Squires Gate goalkeeper.
Milan Lalkovic looked to turn the screw for the visitors, while Sam Bird caused problems on more than one occasion, both by crossing and via his almighty long-throw.
Sonny Reeves had a couple of half-chances, but, failed to hit the target.
Eventually though, Chorley did hit the front before the break; Liam Birchall, who has spent time out on loan with Squires Gate, right place, right time heading home inside the six-yard box after Bird's initial strong shot was well saved.
Chorley's assistant manager, Chris Anderson, rung the changes after the restart and again, proceedings took time to really get into full-flow.
The Magpies had the ball in the back of the net at once stage, only to be flagged for offside.
Ben Layton, a young talent who plays regularly for the U19 BTEC side, looked composed in midfeld throughout the second-half, while Harvey Smith, looked a handful having gone upfront for the final part of the contest.
All told, Chorley would go on to lift the Children's Charity Cup and will now turn their attention to Tuesday's test away at Euxton Villa.
