Nelson FC 1 Irlam 2: Admirals knocked off top after first home defeat

Nelson FC suffered their first home defeat of the season on Saturday, when Irlam won 2-1 and the hosts were knocked off the top of the North West Counties League premier division, writes HARRY MANNING.

Manager Arron Ripley made two changes to the side which which beaten Droylsden a week earlier to take top spot, bringing in Will Ludlow-Foster for the suspended Cameron Lancaster and James Kemp for Jamie Edwards.

Nelson had the first chance after four minutes, when a looping shot from Lewis Brown was tipped away by Elliot Wynne.

The keeper continued to deny the Admirals, saving at the feet of Luke Hepple and later palming away his fierce 25-yard shot.

At the other end, Chris Thompson's point-blank save thwarted a rare attack by the Manchester side.

Heavy rain made conditions difficult but Nelson had more chances before half-time as Wynne saved Andy Hill's 30-yard drive at full stretch and saw Hepple's attempt from outside the box go just wide.

Nelson looked to freshen up by introducing Alex Green and Sean Ince but it was Irlam who scored against the run of play on 73 minutes, when a cross from the right was turned in for an own goal.

Hill fired over as the Admirals pushed everyone forward, leaving space for Irlam to break free and double their lead as John Johnston rounded Thompson and tapped into an empty net on 80 minutes

Nelson pulled one back when Ince converted a penalty for handball in added time but it was too late.

Droylsden regained pole position with their 6-1 thrashing of Longridge Town and are a point ahead of Nelson, who visit mid-table Ramsbottom United on Saturday.