REPORT: Spireites stand firm to claim three points against Aldershot

Alex Whittle’s 27th minute strike proved the difference as Chesterfield emerged victorious at the EBB Stadium against Aldershot Town.

James Rowe opted for one change to his starting eleven. Martin Smith came into the side with Tom Whelan dropping to the bench.

The Spireites started the game on the front foot. Adi Yussuf recorded the first shot of the game when he sliced an effort from the edge of the area wide.

Both teams were evenly matched for the opening 25 minutes with few chances falling for both sides.

James Rowe’s men took the lead in the 27th minute through Whittle who netted his first goal for the club. Jack Clarke broke down the right and played a superb low ball into the area which was palmed away by Mitch Walker into the path of Whittle who took a touch and fired home.

Aldershot’s first effort on target came in the 40th minute when Josh Rees tested Grant Smith. A long throw was sent into the area and headed into the mix of players by Mo Bettamer. Rees latched on and headed towards goal however Smith produced a smart stop to deny the Aldershot man.

Rees proved a real danger in additional time when a free-kick fell to the Shots skipper inside the area. He hit it first time however Smith was equal to it and the Spireites kept their one goal advantage going into the break.

The home side started the second half brightly, however Chesterfield stood strong and restricted them to few opportunities.

Bettamer came close to levelling just before the hour mark when his header was cleared off the line by Laurence Maguire.

Substitute Ricky Miller received the ball in a dangerous area however he coudn’t get enough of a connection on it to bring down and try to fire past Smith.

Aldershot Town huffed and puffed but couldn’t find a way to break down a resolute Chesterfield defence who returned back to Derbyshire with a precious three points.

Chesterfield (3-5-2): G. Smith; Kerr, Hollis, Maguire (C); Carline, Weston, M. Smith, Whittle; Clarke (Whelan 56’); Yussuf (Dinanga 71), Asante (Mandeville 89’)

Unused Substitutes: Yarney, Tyson