Darlaston Town's fine start to 2026 came to an end with a home 1-0 loss to fellow strugglers Congleton Town. After taking seven points from nine in 2026 they went into the game full of confidence, unfortunately for them they were somewhat out of sort, failing to find the form they have shown in the last few games.

With Kieran Cook suspended, manager Dean Gill gave a debut to Max Chimenes, midfielder Jake Pearson coming in for Emilio Ballard Matthews, the only changes from the side that drew at Bury seven days earlier.

On a miserable wet Saturday, on a tacky surface both sides were somewhat short of their best a single Darren Chadwick goal separating the teams. In an error strewn game, and both sides struggling near the foot of the table, the first goal was always going to be vital and so it turned out.

The home side had the better of the opening exchanges, a Callum Knowles effort from 20 yards going high and wide. As the visitors grew into the game Ebou Badjie looked dangerous , shooting wide under pressure.

The all important first and only goal of the game came on 21 minutes. Skipper Darren Chadwick curling a 20 yard free kick around the wall into keeper Amos' bottom right hand corner.

Both sides were lacking quality, Chimenes having the best chance before half time, creating space for himself before shooting a foot wide from 22 yards. Liptrott and Needham for the visitors impressed but there was little action or chances in the respective penalty areas.

Williams was pulling the strings in midfield for Congleton whilst Billy Corns impressed for the home side in midfield. Jake Pearson's cross into the box eluded everyone whilst Badjie shot tamely into the arms of keeper Amos.

In a rare piece of quality, substitute Matthew Gillam struck the bar with a lob from a difficult angle.

The second half petered out into a tame affair, quality missing, defences on top and good quality chances at a premium.

Darlaston will be hoping for an improved performance when they entertain league leaders Lower Breck next Saturday at The Paycare Stadium kick off 3 pm. The game ended in a 1-1 draw and was played in the shadows of Anfield home of Liverpool FC earlier in the season.

As always Button Oak Photography were at the game and their images are available on the club’s website. Please click Congleton Town - Home for access