Spireites win at Sutton

Haydn Hollis’ first goal of the season was enough for the Spireites to secure a 1-0 victory over high-flying Sutton United at Gander Green Lane.

James Rowe made four changes to the starting XI as Jordan Cropper, David Buchanan, Jonathan Smith and Liam Mandeville all dropped out.

Jak McCourt, Tom Whelan and new signings George Carline and Joel Taylor were all brought into the starting line-up.

The first half-chance of the game fell to Whelan when the midfielder picked the ball up 25 yards out before unleashing a shot that Dean Bouzanis got his hands to.

After a period of dominant Sutton possession, the hosts fired their first effort on goal in the 23rd minute. David Ajiboye lined up a shot, which Kyle Letheren did well to divert round the post.

Against the run of play, Chesterfield took the lead with five minutes until half time. A long throw from debutant Carline was glanced on by Hollis into the bottom left corner of the goal.

The Spireites found themselves unlucky to not go into the break with a two-goal lead. Some nice work from Akwasi Asante on the right allowed the striker to whip in a cross that Carline headed agonisingly wide.

Asante was then presented with a good chance a minute later. The forward found himself in a one-on-one situation, but Bouzanis got down well to make a smart save.

The second half saw Chesterfield defend resolutely as the back three and Tom Denton continuously dealing with the constant Sutton crossing.

The referee provided a stop-start game due to the number of fouls given. A few away players were put into the book.

Heading into the last 15 minutes of the game, the hosts were presented with a golden chance. A fizzing low ball was played into Harry Beautyman, but the danger man blazed over the bar from six yards.

Even though the home side were looking for an equaliser, the Spireites came close to doubling their lead. Hollis brought a corner down before volleying his effort over the bar.

The Spireites battled brilliantly and managed to hold on to secure a second win in three games.

Chesterfield will welcome Barnet to the Technique Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Chesterfield: Letheren, Carline, Evans, Hollis, Maguire, Taylor (Cropper 63), Weston (Mandeville 75), McCourt, Whelan, Denton, Asante (Boden 89).

Unused Substitutes: Yarney, Rowley.