CONGELTON Town's slide continued as they suffered a last gasp 1-0 defeat at mid-table Curzon Ashton, last Saturday.

It was a cruel blow with just over two minutes left on the clock but it was another below par performance from the Bears that's set alarm bells ringing early.

Three defeats in four has sent them on a downwards spiral in North West Counties Division One and Congleton need to get out of reverse gear quickly to avoid another relegation battle.

"The manner of defeat was far from comforting," admitted Bears treasurer Ken Mead.

"The FA Vase match against Oldbury has taken on massive importance as we try to salvage some respectability from early season disappointments."

They had started well against Curzon as the returning Dyson's early free kick found Park clear of his marker but the end product was a week header and an easy save for keeper Backhouse.

No joy arrived after a decent spell and the home side took the initiative.

Delaney cut in from the right before unleashing a drive, tipped over the bar by Bears number 1 Towns.

Mitten and Green also went close though Congleton finished the half strongly with Shaw orchestrating manoeuvres, the second of which should have been tucked away by Smith.

End-to-end football engaged the second half as Ringland headed wide for Congelton and Mitten struck the upright down field.

Hatton came on for Beasley on 65 minutes as the Bears turned up tempo.

Shaw and Smith were finally starting to keep Backhouse busy before only another fine save kept Scully from giving Congleton a priceless lead on 74 minutes.

A goalless draw looked odds on until disaster struck on 87 minutes through a controversial free-kick.

Delivered into the heart of the penalty area, a goalmouth scrambled ensued and Dean got the final touch to put the ball over the line.

Green should have heaped more misery on the Bears but wasted a one-on-one opportunity while Shaw did, picking up his fourth caution of the season that puts him close to suspension.

That crucial FA Vase tie against Oldbury United takes place at home, this Saturday.