Chester FC 4-1 Worksop Town: Cartwright Brace Inspires Deva Stadium Rout

Chester FC produced a dominant home display in the English Conference North Division on Saturday, 26 September 2026, defeating Worksop Town 4-1 at the Deva Stadium. A brace from Ethan Cartwright and a controlled team performance ensured the Blues claimed a comfortable three points.

Chester were sharper in every department, pressing with purpose and moving the ball quickly through midfield. Worksop had their moments, particularly in the early stages, but they were ultimately overwhelmed by Chester’s intensity and attacking quality.

Match Overview

Chester took the lead in the 21st minute when Ryan Nolan arrived late in the box to convert a low cross from the right. Worksop responded well and equalised ten minutes later through Liam Hardy, who pounced on a loose ball after a corner. At that point, the game looked finely balanced.

However, Chester regained control before half-time. Ethan Cartwright restored the lead in the 42nd minute with a deft finish, and Tom Peers made it 3-1 shortly after the restart. Cartwright added his second in the 67th minute, capping a fine individual performance and ending any hopes of a Worksop comeback.

Key Moments

• 21st minute: Ryan Nolan opens the scoring for Chester after a flowing move.
• 31st minute: Liam Hardy equalises for Worksop from a corner.
• 42nd minute: Ethan Cartwright restores Chester’s lead with a clever finish.
• 49th minute: Tom Peers makes it 3-1 after a quick turnover in midfield.
• 67th minute: Cartwright grabs his second to seal the win.

Tactical Story

Chester’s midfield dominated the contest, winning the majority of second balls and dictating the tempo. Their wingers stayed high and wide, forcing Worksop’s full-backs into difficult decisions. When Chester pressed, they did so in coordinated groups, cutting off passing lanes and forcing errors.

Worksop tried to play out from the back, but they were frequently caught in possession. Their equaliser came from a set-piece, which remained their most dangerous route to goal. Defensively, they struggled with Chester’s movement, especially Cartwright’s late runs into the box.

Standout Players

Ethan Cartwright was the clear man of the match, scoring twice and linking play expertly. Ryan Nolan and Tom Peers also found the net, while Chester’s midfield anchored the performance with energy and discipline. For Worksop, Liam Hardy took his goal well and worked hard, but he was isolated for much of the match.

Table Impact

Chester’s victory strengthens their push for a high finish in the Conference North Division and adds to their impressive home record. Worksop remain in need of points and will be concerned by the ease with which Chester created chances. The Blues look increasingly like a side capable of challenging at the top end of the table.