On a dry morning in early September Buxton Predators were still on their summer holidays when the referee blew his whistle. It was clear from the beginning that absence of preseason friendlies and late start to training has left Buxton a little off the pace. However with a new formation and some new positions the Buxton boys showed spirit and battled to the end. With some decent early saves by Sumner in goal and the quick footwork of Ulley, Larman and Bennett in the new look back 3 hopes were high.
Unfortunately for the home side Chesterfield soon stamp their authority on the game. McKenzie and Green both pressed the flanks for Buxton after determined work in the middle from Hird and Jordan only to see chances squandered in front of goal. Green did manage to grab one back shortly before the break after some excellent work down the right wing by Mckenzie who flashed one across the edge of the box to Green who drilled it past the advancing Chesterfield keeper.

However this was little consolation when chesterfield picked the pace up in the second half even with the fresh legs of Ellis on at left back and the slick passing between Goodwin and Green Buxton failed to stamp some authority on the game. The situation turned worse when both McKenzie and Hird both picked up injuries and Buxton with only 1 substitute for the day had to limp ( literally for some to the finish). Man of the Match Green just pipping Buxtons utility man Fearn to the award after he played in nearly every position today battling constantly.

Thoughts move to next weeks opponents Chesterfield Comets away where Buxton will look to turn things around.