Ryan Croasdale effort enough as Fylde edge Nantwich in FA Cup first round

Posted Sunday, November 10, 2019 by PA

Nantwich Town missed out on a money-spinning FA Cup run after they were beaten 1-0 by AFC Fylde in the first round.

National League Fylde – who sit two tiers above Nantwich in the non-league pyramid – earned safe passage through Ryan Croasdale’s deflected effort just before half-time.

Nantwich, who were playing in the first round for just the third time in their history, flattered to deceive and failed to create many chances.

As for Fylde, new manager Jim Bentley is now unbeaten in his four games in charge, having been appointed just under two weeks ago.

The first half was a tight affair with neither side managing to establish a foothold in the tie.

Nantwich’s Luke Walsh led some encouraging forays forward but lacked end product.

Danny Rowe had his own chances for Fylde, though he was mainly restricted to efforts from long range.

With the score goalless and half-time approaching, Fylde opened the scoring in fortuitous circumstances.

Croasdale met Jordan Willliams’ cross from the left and his scuffed shot took a deflection, leaving goalkeeper Gregory Hall stranded and giving the Coasters an interval lead.

Nantwich almost hit back immediately, again through Walsh, only for his shot to hit the side netting.

The second half was similarly tight as the hosts desperately tried to force the game to a replay, with Joseph Malkin blazing an effort over and Ben Harrison shooting wide when well placed.