Northwich Victoria fell to a 2:3 defeat against Atherley Reserves in the 1st Round Qualifying of the FA Cup on Friday evening. The result sees the visitors progress while the hosts go out of the competition at the first hurdle. It was a match that offered little beyond the scoreboard, with neither side able to produce a standout performance.
Northwich arrived with mixed recent results. They had drawn twice and lost three of their last five outings, including a heavy 0:2 loss to Campion in August. Atherley Reserves came in with even less confidence, having lost four of their previous five games. Their only victory in that run was a 2:0 win over Prestwich Heys back in August 2025.
The visitors showed resilience to secure the win despite their poor run of form. They came from behind to take the lead and held on through what was a tight affair. Northwich pressed for an equaliser but could not find the breakthrough. By then, it was too late for the home side.
Both teams will now turn their attention to league duties. Northwich need to bounce back from this disappointment when they next take to the pitch. Atherley Reserves can take satisfaction from the result but must improve if they are to challenge further up the table.