A superb goal from leading scorer Nathan Fisher earned Chester-le-Street a 2-1 win at Esh Winning. It was a fairly even opening as both teams realised the importance of the game. Chester made the breakthrough after 16 minutes with their first opportunity. Rob Draper drove a low ball across the face of the goal and Robbie Bird ran past a defender to slide the ball home at the far post. Esh nearly equalised after 20 minutes when a ball in from the left found Nicky Martin but his first time shot brought a good save from Ian Aitken, low down to his right at the foot of the post. Two minutes later, Robbie Bird broke through the middle to fire in a shot which keeper Andrew Spence could only parry back into the path of Rob Draper. His shot was blocked and Nathan Fisher's follow-up was also blocked. Chester were unfortunate not to increase their lead after 29 minutes. Luke Gilhespy made ground down the right and slipped the ball inside for Rob Draper to pass onto Nathan Fisher, but his attempted chip saw the ball clip the top of the bar. After 37 minutes, Rob Draper played the ball in from the left to Nathan Fisher but he snatched at his shot and the keeper was able to make a comfortable save. So Chester reached the interval with only one goal to show and many hoped they would not have to pay for the missed chances. After 51 minutes, Esh nearly got a surprise equaliser when a cross came into the area and Rob Palmer sliced an attempted clearance but fortunately the ball just went over the bar. However, Esh drew level a minute later when Shaun Gregory looped a header high into the net. Chester fought back and after 60 minutes, a corner was only cleared to the edge of the area but Robbie Bird saw his first-time shot go just over the bar. Chester regained the lead after 67 minutes. A long cross field pass found Robbie Bird and as he was tackled the ball broke to Nathan Fisher. The keeper rushed out but Nathan was able to go take the ball away from him, turn and fire home a superb goal. Chester had several other chance to make the game safe. After 76 minutes, Robbie Bird made a good run but put his shot just wide of the post. And in stoppage time, a quick break gave Chester a three-on-one but Luke Gilhespy placed the ball wide of the post. This was a very important win which helped Chester move up three places.
Team: Ian Aitken, Luke Gilhespy, Robert Palmer, Kyle Bird, Andy Armstrong, Scott Donaldson, Nicholas Kane, Robbie Bird, Nathan Fisher, Rob Draper, Ben Johnson (Damian Maw, 64 mins). Subs Not Used : Colin Wake, John Murray, Alex McKenzie.
Crowd: 58
Referee: Mr. T.S. Rogers, Darlington
Assistants: Mr. M. Burke, Jesmond & Mr. S.E. Whittaker, Whickham