Nantwich Town vs Clitheroe Match Recap - Oct 21, 2025

Nantwich Town Edges Clitheroe in Thrilling Encounter, Solidifying Mid-Table Aspirations

In a match that dynamically swung with the momentum of a late autumn breeze, Nantwich Town overcame Clitheroe 3-2 at Swansway Stadium on a chilly October afternoon. This victory not only showcased the resilience of Nantwich but also sent a sharp message through the Non League Div One - Northern West: the mid-table shuffle is far from settled, and every point counts. As this writer had whimsically forecasted goals galore, it seems the teams delivered - albeit in a fashion that was full of drama and some unexpected twists.

Nantwich came into this fixture brimming with confidence after their impressive 3-0 triumph over Chasetown just days prior. The consistency that eluded them earlier in the season appeared to finally be within reach. Meanwhile, Clitheroe, buoyed by a 3-1 win against Darlaston Town, presented a formidable challenge and were looking to establish their own momentum. The match was set, and both sides needed the three points to continue their push up the table, with only two separating them at the kick-off.

The first half revealed the tactical prowess of Nantwich, as they seized control early. In the 12th minute, they opened the scoring when Ryan Brooke, who was pivotal in the previous match, found the net, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The goal not only set the tone but also lifted the spirits of a team that had faced troubling inconsistencies early in the season.

However, Clitheroe wasn't about to fold under pressure. The visitors gathered their wits and struck back, equalizing in the 30th minute through Alex Kiwomya, a player known for his ability to find scoring chances in tight situations. It was a well-timed goal that underscored the fact that this clash was anything but one-sided.

As the first half dwindled, Nantwich retaliated with renewed energy. Their persistence paid off when James Lawrie scored their second goal just before the break, a strike that restored their lead and sent them into the locker rooms with a 2-1 advantage. The goal not only highlighted Lawrie's attacking acumen but emphasized the team's newfound consistency.

The second half began with an intensity that hinted at more fireworks. Clitheroe, adjusting its tactics, began to apply pressure early in the half, and it was Lois Maynard who would find the net with a slick finish in the 57th minute, leveling the match once again. The pendulum of momentum was now firmly swinging, and the visitors were right back in it.

But Nantwich was undeterred. With the home crowd roaring, their determination was palpable, leading to the decisive moment of the match in the 73rd minute when Jake Smith capitalized on a defensive miscommunication from Clitheroe to slot home the eventual winner. Smith's goal proved to be a moment of brilliance amid a tightly contested match that would echo in the minds of players and fans alike.

As the final minutes ticked away, Clitheroe pressed for an equalizer, but their frantic efforts were met with a resolute defense led by Nantwich's backline, which held firm despite the growing pressure. The game concluded with a slight sense of relief for Nantwich fans and palpable frustration for Clitheroe, who could feel the points slipping away despite their spirited performance.

This result lifts Nantwich Town to 11th place with 16 points, presenting a glimmer of hope as they look to cement their place in the mid-table standings. Conversely, Clitheroe's defeat leaves them languishing in 13th, also on 16 points but with a poorer goal difference, emphasizing how every goal conceded becomes magnified in the battle for league positions.

Reflecting on the season thus far, it is evident that the stakes remain high for both squads. For Nantwich, confidence will be crucial in their upcoming fixtures if they hope to build on this victory. Consistency must be their mantra as they aim for a top-half finish. Meanwhile, Clitheroe must regroup, particularly defensively, if they are to avoid slipping further down the table. This match showcases the relentless drive both teams possess; their fates intertwined in a dramatic season where every encounter feels paramount.

Indeed, as we saw this afternoon, the beauty of non-league football lies in its unpredictability and the fierce pride displayed by local clubs. As the autumn leaves fall, the battle for points-and pride-will continue to heat up in the weeks to come.