AFC Fylde manager Dave Challinor could not hide his disappointment following the 3-2 defeat against local rivals Chorley last night.

Despite racing into a two-goal lead through Brad Barnes and Danny Rowe, Fylde were subject to an unlikely comeback from their lively opponents in shocking conditions.

“Obviously we are extremely disappointed to have lost the game,” said Challinor. “The way the pitch was it was always likely that a mistake was going to decide the game and that was the case.

“They played the conditions better than we did, it’s as simple as that. Before the game I would have taken a point and avoided serious injury. The pitch was pretty dangerous and we have had our fair share of injuries this season so we didn’t want any more.

“We started the game very well and got the ball into good areas, but it was very difficult out there, especially for the defence.

“The pitch was a factor in the defeat but not the only reason we lost. It didn’t suit our game at all but we didn’t adapt well enough.

“They almost let us back into the game when they went ahead because they took their foot off the gas and despite us dominating the last 15 minutes, we couldn’t find a breakthrough.

“The lads are disappointed and you would expect that, but there is still plenty to play for and we will keep going right until the very end. We are still in a strong position, but we missed a real chance to close the gap tonight.”