CHORLEY 4, CURZON ASHTON 3
Battling Curzon Ashton lost to a late goal at Chorley after looking set to cause an upset at the Vanarama National League North high-flyers.
The Nash were 3-2 ahead after an hour at Victory Park against opponents who have been on an incredible run – they have lost only one league match since August 21.
Curzon, by contrast, are now seven league games without a win, though they showed they are a match for the best in their division.
Chorley took the lead midway through the opening period when Millenic Alli’s shot was deflected home by Harry Cardwell.
Curzon equalised in the 33rd minute through Jack Dunn who brilliant volley from well outside the penalty area was described as a goal-of-the-season contender.
Cardwell scored his second of the game and seventh of the season to put Chorley back ahead six minutes before the break, a close-range effort following a goalmouth scramble.
Curzon were level soon after the restart when Alex Curran forced the ball home from close range.
Chorley continued to push for a goal, but it was Curzon who struck on the hour to move ahead for the first time. Dunn beat the offside trap on the break to set up Tom Peers for a simple tap-in. it was the first goal for the on-loan Altrincham striker.
With the outcome in the balance, Harvey Smith made it 3-3 in the 72nd minute with a back-post header.
Jamie Vermiglio’s side continued to heap pressure on the visitors’ goal in search of a late winner and it eventually came in the 85th minute when former Stalybridge Celtic forward Jonathan Ustabasi slotted home a shot from a free kick to complete the comeback to the dismay of disappointed Curzon.