IT was a tale of what might have been for Clitheroe, as they fell to only their third defeat in 13 NWCL First Division matches.

"It was just one of those days," said player-manager Lee Sculpher. "We could have played all night and still not scored, we just didn't get the rub of the green."

Hoping to build on their impressive recent form, the Blues began brightly and created a host of clear cut chances - the best falling to Lee Cryer who failed to convert a one-on-one with the keeper.

With their defence coping admirably, Clitheroe restricted Nantwich to one solitary opportunity in the opening period, and they carried on in the same vein after the break.

Pushing forward searching for an opening, more chances went begging for Clitheroe - Neil Spencer heading straight at the keeper, and Chris Whittingham blazing over the bar from 10 yards out.

With 15 minutes to go, the Cheshire side took the lead. A hopeful ball forward left Gary Rishton back pedaling, and his header back to the onrushing keeper Kris Richens proved too strong as it sailed into the empty net.

In the dying seconds with Clitheroe pressing for an equaliser, Town's Gareth Brooks broke free to coolly slot home.

NANTWICH TOWN...2 CLITHEROE...0