Spireites secure another home victory

Chesterfield beat Woking 1-0 at the SMH Group Stadium to move 13 points clear at the top of the National League.

Jamie Grimes’ first-half strike was enough to seal a record-equalling 17th consecutive home win for the Spireites.

Paul Cook made three changes from the side that beat Altrincham 2-1, with Jeff King, Tyrone Williams and Liam Mandeville returning to the starting line-up.

Armando Dobra drove through the Woking midfield and his low shot from distance was saved by Alexis Andre Jr. The goalkeeper then kept out King’s effort.

Dobra won a free-kick on the left side of the area and Darren Oldaker’s effort was blocked by the Woking wall.

Chesterfield scored the only goal of the game in the 24th minute when Mandeville’s free-kick was met by Grimes.

The Spireites could have doubled their lead when Branden Horton crossed for Dobra, but the winger could not get a shot away.

Mandeville’s corner was met by the head of Jamie Grimes and laid off by Tom Naylor to Dobra, who fired a shot over.

Woking’s first attempt on goal came through Dion Kelly-Evans, who skewed a long-range effort high and wide.

Mandeville tried his luck from the edge of the box and his shot was deflected behind for a corner.

The Spireites went into half-time with a 1-0 lead.

Dennon Lewis’ first-time strike drew a save from Harry Tyrer as Woking tried to force an equaliser.

The Spireites responded as King’s cross from the right wing was headed over by Dobra.

Woking came close to equalising when Lewis’ inviting cross found the head of Jim Kellermann, who couldn’t hit the target.

Mandeville skilfully broke into the Woking box and his strike was well saved by Andre.

Chesterfield came close to a second when Mandeville missed a good opportunity after being set up by King.

Woking defender Scott Cuthbert saw his header cleared off the line moments later.

Ricky Korboa passed up a glaring chance to equalise after being played one-on-one with Tyrer before just missing the target.

The Spireites were able to hold out for yet another home victory. Chesterfield will now turn their focus to Saturday’s game against Southend at the SMH Group Stadium.

Spireites: Tyrer, King, Williams, Grimes ©, Horton, Naylor, Oldaker, Mandeville, Banks (Jacobs 79’), Dobra (Berry 79’), Grigg (Quigley 86’)

Unused subs: Clements, Jones

Attendance: 6,402 (46 away)