Chester FC suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Peterborough Sports in an away match in the National League North on March 31, 2024. The loss has intensified concerns regarding the club’s aspirations for a playoff spot, as they struggled to match the intensity of their opponents throughout the match.
Manager Calum McIntyre did not hold back in his assessment of the performance, labeling it “unacceptable.” Speaking to Chester FC TV, he expressed his disappointment, stating, “A very disappointing afternoon. An extremely disappointing result and an equally disappointing performance.” McIntyre highlighted the need for greater commitment and application from his players, noting that they failed to show the necessary competitive spirit.
The match showcased a standout performance from Shaquile Coulthirst, who played a pivotal role in Peterborough Sports’ victory. Coulthirst opened the scoring with a close-range effort in the 17th minute, setting the tone for the remainder of the match. He added two more goals in the final 20 minutes, securing his hat-trick and solidifying his team’s position as they aim to escape the relegation zone.
McIntyre reflected on the recurring issues that have plagued Chester FC during away matches this season. “I think there have been too many occasions where we’ve come on the road and things haven’t gone to plan. It feels like a similar story,” he stated. The manager emphasized that the team must perform better if they wish to achieve their goals, particularly in challenging away fixtures.
This defeat comes as the Blues look to improve their standings in the league, with their playoff aspirations now under threat. The team must regroup quickly as they prepare for their next match, needing to demonstrate a higher level of performance to turn their fortunes around.
In other National League North action, results included AFC Telford defeating King’s Lynn 2-1, and Alfreton falling to Bedford 1-2. Notable matches also saw Chorley lose 1-2 to Darlington and Marine draw 2-2 with South Shields. As the season progresses, every point becomes crucial for teams vying for promotion or battling against relegation.
