Leamington were in the relegation positions this evening after their 1-2 defeat at home to Lowestoft Town. Stalybridge Celtic won 2-0 away.
Of course, it's not over until the fat lady sings, but on this showing, it's goodbye Conference North, nice to know you, and hello Northern Premier.
Over the 90 minutes we simply weren't good enough. We lost possession too easily, we failed to pass to our own players, there was too much hoofing the ball up in the air and too much panic defending.
The Trawlermen had to play their reserve goalkeeper who was variously described as the Jolly Pink Giant and Mr Universe. However, he wasn't just a towering presence, but seemed more than capable.
The Lowestoft players were very lippy in the first half, for example complaining when play was stopped after Chilton went down when seven players surrounded the referee, but he just responded by giving them lectures.
On 43 minutes Jack Edwards put Leamington ahead with a shot from a corner. Unfortunately, Edwards had to be substituted in the second half after a jaw injury: he was one of the more effective players. Earlier in the half both sides had chances to score, but failed to take the opportunities.
Brakes didn't look like scoring a second goal and on 77 minutes, Tank conceded a penalty which was efficiently dispatched. Then on 90 minutes Brakes hearts were broken when Lowestoft scored through a crowded box.
All credit to Chilton for unrelenting effort and some real skill.
Perhaps a returning Danny Newton can get us out of the mire. However, what worries me is the 69 goals we have conceded this season. I am a great believer in building from the back and that means a consistently reliable keeper, not a succession of custodians.
