A DEFENSIVE mistake 15 minutes from time cost Nantwich Town an important win at home to fellow strugglers Atherton Collieries.

The Dabbers had to settle for a 1-1 draw after Dougie Dawson's volleyed goal was cancelled out by the late strike from the Lancashire side.

Now they face another tough six-pointer in the return tie at Atherton as both sides try to haul themselves away from the relegation dogfight.

"We still have nine games left and there's a lot to play for," said club secretary Alan Thompson.

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