Curzon close in on Chorley

Curzon Ashton edged closer to National League North leaders Chorley on Tuesday after a 1-0 win at home to Southport.

The hosts were on the front foot straight away, with Isaac Buckley-Ricketts cutting inside and forcing a save from former Curzon keeper Chris Renshaw, who tipped his driven effort round the post. 

Craig Mahon’s side then took the lead just after the half-hour mark when Jimmy Spencer’s glancing header nestled into the far corner after a pinpoint delivery from Luke Griffiths. 

From then on, Curzon began to control the game, with Southport having to wait until the 75th minute for their first real chance when the ball fell to substitute Dior Angus just outside the six-yard box, but the forward could only direct his effort wide of the post.  

Moments later, the home side missed an opportunity to seal the win- a quick counter attack saw Isaac Buckley-Ricketts race away before playing in Stefan Mols who could only fire his left-footed effort straight at Chris Renshaw. 

Despite a couple of nervy moments towards the end, Craig Mahon’s side managed to hold on and claim a vital three points. 

“I’m delighted,” Mahon told the Reporter following the win. 

“I spoke to the lads in the changing room and said although it’s stressful and I’m losing a lot of hair because of it, these 1-0 wins are massive. 

“Being able to score and know that you’re solid enough to not concede and see it out is so important.” 

The Nash travel to Chorley this weekend, knowing that a win would see them go joint top of the National League North.