Words: Pete Tscherewik, Images: David Airey
A defiant display from Andy Preece's Chorley side wasn't enough on Saturday afternoon as a clinical Scunthorpe United came out 4-2 winners at the Attis Arena.
The Magpies got off to the worst possible start, falling behind early when Danny Whitehall pounced on a fortunate deflection off Mike Calveley to fire the hosts ahead from close range.
However, Chorley responded almost instantly. Just two minutes later, Kole Hall scrambled the ball over the line at the back post following an Adam Blakeman corner, drawing his side level.
The match continued at a relentless pace, with both sides pressing aggressively and forcing turnovers. Scunthorpe were the ones to capitalize, and on 22 minutes, Whitehall grabbed his second of the afternoon. The Iron’s momentum continued shortly after as Callum Roberts extended the lead with a composed finish that left goalkeeper Matt Urwin no chance.
Trailing 3-1 at the break, Chorley came out with renewed intent in the second-half, pushing to reduce the deficit. But Scunthorpe delivered a hammer blow on the counter; former Chorley man Carlton Ubaezuonu produced a dazzling solo goal to make it 4-1.
Despite the setback, Chorley refused to give in. Kole Hall netted his second and his side’s with 12 minutes remaining, giving the visitors hope and setting up a tense finale.
Still, Andy Butler’s Scunthorpe side held firm under pressure, seeing out the win to book their place in the final against either Kidderminster Harriers or Chester.
