Defeat for Spireites at Alfreton

The Spireites lost 2-0 loss Alfreton Town in a pre-season friendly at the Imapct Arena on Saturday afternoon following goals from James Jones and Jake Day.

A strong side was fielded including new signings Kyle Letheren and Milan Butterfield. Haydn Hollis also started after missing the Belper Town game.

After an even start, the hosts created the first big chance of the game when Letheren sprung into action by making a great low save from Jones’ downwards header.

Chesterfield’s first chance came just a couple of minutes later when Scott Boden tried his luck from a tight angle, but his shot was skewed wide of the goal.

Both sides continued to create chances with the defences holding out. Shaun Tuton saw his overhead kick fall to Elliott Reeves who fired wide of the mark.

The Spireites’ best effort of the half fell to Jonathan Smith. He latched onto the ball following Boden’s blocked attempt but George Willis was equal to the shot.

However, the hosts took the lead in the 41st minute. Nathan Fox’s inswinging cross was flicked on by Jones and into the bottom left past Letheren.

The second half stayed even with chances becoming few and far between. Smith saw his dipping volley well saved by Willis on the hour-mark.

Just two minutes later, Bobby Johnson came close to doubling the home side’s lead. His 25-yard free-kick took a deflection before cannoning off the crossbar.

Chesterfield were presented with a golden chance with 15 minutes to go. Luke Rawson found himself with a one-on-one chance but his effort hit the post before Willis brilliantly saved the second effort.

The hosts doubled their lead with the last kick of the game when Day was sent through on goal before firing past Letheren.

The final pre-season friendly takes place next Saturday when Guiseley visit the Technique Stadium in a behind closed doors game.

Chesterfield: Letheren, Cropper (McKay 70), Yarney (Sharman 70), Evans, Hollis (Maguire 70), Buchanan, Butterfield (Hutchinson 70), Smith, Mandeville (Rowley 65), Boden, Denton (Rawson 70).