NELSON's new manager Mick Molloy saw the size of the task he has taken on as he watched his side slip to defeat at the hands of lowly Norton United.

After a terrible first half, Molloy made two half-time substitutions to steady the ship and set about repairing the damage of an Anthony Kirk goal scored after just seven minutes.

The Blues grew in confidence and took control of the game creating a series of chances which cried out for a good finish.

Paul Fildes was denied by the Norton keeper in a one-on-one confrontation and Craig Bradshaw suffered the same fate with two similar golden opportunities as well as forcing a great save with his blistering drive which had 'goal' written all over it.

Nelson captain Andy Haworth was desperately unlucky to see his low shot hit the post and rebound across the goal line to safety and Duncan Bennett's looping header came back off the crossbar as Nelson did everything but score.

Norton rode their luck and sealed the game with a gift of a goal after 81 minutes when a misunderstanding in the Blues defence saw Mick Charlton head the ball over his own keeper and Mick Machin nipped in to slot home his side's second goal.

NORTON UTD ...2

NELSON ...0