Cleator Moor Celtic served up a “bad recipe” in their latest North West Counties League game to lose 2-1 at home.
Opponents AFC Blackpool are in a promotion play-off place but for most of the game Celtic were the better side.
“We had the best chances in the game and couldn’t take them but conceded two preventable goals, which in football terms is a bad recipe,” said manager Martin Mahone.
“During the game we suffered a few injuries, which will be a concern going forward, but we had actually gone into the game with a strong team.
“It is what it is, though, and we will hope that some of the injuries have cleared-up for Saturday when we go to Pilkington.
“There’s no let-up in this League because it’s a really good standard, which is why we want to stay in it. Pilkington are actually level on points with AFC Blackpool in a play-off place so it’s going to be another tough one.
“But having played well enough against Blackpool, and we know why we lost, we will go there hoping to bring something back.”
Celtic have slipped back to just one place and three points above the relegation zone, although the West Cumbrians have a much better goal difference than the three teams below them.
Harry Clarke had taken advantage of some generous defending to put Blackpool ahead on ten minutes before a bullet header from Jack Hunter put Celtic level on the half hour.
The winning goal from Jacob Gregory came on 53 minutes and in the time that remained Celtic contrived to miss some good chances to earn at least a draw.
