Four defeats on the trot (From Warrington Guardian)

Four defeats on the trot

CONGLETON Town's new boss saw his struggling side go down to their fourth defeat in a row on Saturday.

The 2-0 home defeat by Maine Road was Karl Wilcox's second game in charge, and saw him ring the changes.

He gave debuts to recent signings Alan Wilcox and Steve Webb, as well as striker Adam Sawyer, who has scored 22 goals this season and has been signed from Meir KA.

Congleton had a chance to take the lead on eight minutes, but a shot by Burns failed to trouble the Maine Road keeper.

The visitors began to pressurise the Bears, and took the lead on 26 minutes when they were awarded a penalty.

The referee punished what home supporters felt was a fair challenge by Jamie Petrie, and Chappell stepped up to score from the spot.

Maine Road doubled their lead two minutes later with another controversial goal.

After a surging run through the heart of the Congleton defence Mitchell was tripped 25 yards from goal.

As Congleton keeper McMahon attempted to organise the defensive wall the quick-thinking Mitchell slotted the free kick home before the keeper was able to react.

The Bears created an opening shortly before half-time when the Maine Road flapped at a cross.

The ball broke loose eight yards out, but there was no Congleton player there to fire it goalwards.

Wilcox brought on Scott Beasley in the second half in midfield, as Scott Murcott, Congleton's most creative player in the first half, was moved to left back.

Maine Road were continually allowed time and space on the ball, and Leon Sturridge was brought on midway through the half.

His pace and enthusiasm saw Congleton press for a goal to get them back in the game, but they were unable to create a clear-cut opportunity.

Congleton travel tomorrow to Squires Gate.