Chasetown started brightly, with Webster almost opening the scoring early on as his effort struck the post and bounced narrowly wide. Stalybridge took the opening lead through a shot from inside the box and Scarisbrick slotting it home. On 11 minutes, a dipping free-kick from Langston caused problems for the visitors’ keeper Monks, dropping onto the roof of the net.

As the half wore on, Chasetown pushed to get themselves level but struggled to create anything more than a handful of half chances. Langston continued to look dangerous, testing Monks again with a low effort that was comfortably held.

The second half began with renewed energy. Thompson came close shortly after the restart, firing a driven shot that fizzed just wide of the upright. At the other end, Pond was called into action and produced a strong save to keep Chasetown in the game.

Dunne then tried his luck from distance, but his long-range strike was claimed safely by the keeper. A change followed as Findlay made way for Chimenes, adding fresh legs to the Chasetown attack.

The pressure finally told late on. In the 86th minute, chaos erupted in the visitors’ box as a goalmouth scramble forced a dramatic save on the line. Just moments later, Cater unleashed an unstoppable thunderbolt into the top corner to give Chasetown the lead.

Deep into the closing stages, Chasetown were awarded a penalty. Langston stepped up with composure and coolly slotted home, sealing a deserved victory for the home side.