Clipstone boss hails learning curve experience following defeat to Matlock

The Cobras were beaten following goals by a trialist, Callum Dolan and Chib Chilaka.

But Hoole was heartened by the display his side put in against their superior Northern Premier League opponents.

“It was a good test for us. We played when we could but it was not easy with the pressure Matlock put under us, it pushed us to the limit, which was pleasing,” he said.

“Games like this are designed to test the boys, it's not about the result.

“It was a workout to push the boys to the limit and show what they need to hit in terms of individual and team performances to develop on their own pathway - and this game did that.

“When we did get the chance we kept the ball very well and matched Matlock.

“It was a good test and it was really pleasing that some of the boys got 90 mins and some 19’s got more first team minutes under their belt.

“Overall we had a game plan, which is getting it down and trying to play it out from the back.

“The boys are learning the decision-making that they need to do against teams like Matlock.

“It's hardest to make that decision as there is less time with the way they press and set up.”

Matlock opened the lead on nine minutes when a trialist put away a Louis Potts cross.

Sam Ogden saved well to keep out Alex Byrne on 22 minutes.

Callum Dolan doubled Town’s lead after a brilliant ball from Declan Walker on 47 minutes.

Potts hit the Clipstone crossbar on 80 minutes, before Chib Chilaka headed home on the stroke of full-time.