Cleator Moor Celtic lost their third West Lancashire League game in a row – but 3-1 at home to Lostock St Gerard’s was the worst to take.
The West Cumbrians had gone into the break deservedly ahead 1-0 through a 27th minute goal from Ellis Trotter – but in the second-half it all went wrong.
The message at the break had been more of the same please, but within two minutes of the restart Celic hit the self-destruct button.
Manager Brian Dawson said: “A mix-up at the back allowed them to tap the ball into an empty net. Further individual errors were made for the next two goals and then you could just see the confidence drain from the players.
“In the second half we lacked quality, desire and energy. It was a tough watch on how two halves of football could be so different.
“Credit to Lostock, though. They were a big, physical and well-organised side whom I’m sure will be up there this season.”
Celtic now have to get themselves up for a derby clash on Tuesday night at Whitehaven.
