ACCRINGTON Stanley's historic return to the Football League didn't quite go to plan as Chester spoiled the party at the Saunders Honda Stadium.

After 44 years in the wilderness, manager John Coleman was confident his side would continue where they left off in the Conference, with the winning habit.

But Mark Wright's side outmuscled the Reds to leave Coleman scratching his head.

"We do have to toughen up and get our best players on the ball. We just did not click today but that's not to say it won't in future weeks," said a dejected Coleman.

Keeper Ian Dunbavin was a late call-up as Rob Elliot has returned to Charlton for treatment on his badly bruised ankle.

And there was more woe for the Reds when new signing Sean Doherty hobbled off with an ankle injury after blocking a shot on 12 minutes.

Stanley struggled to get going and a Laurence Wilson corner was flapped at by Dunbavin and big striker Drewe Broughon headed home at the far post on 15 minutes.

"We knew that was their plan - corners to the far post - and we practised defending them in training all week. I said I would fine the players if they scored at the far post and I will," added the Reds chief.

Winger Gary Roberts couldn't make his usual tricky runs, Ian Craney didn't see a lot of the ball in midfield and striker Paul Mullin didn't get the service he needs.

The Reds didn't have a shot on target until the second half but a Roberts free kick was easy for keeper John Danby.

With one goal in it, there was always a chance Stanley could snatch an equaliser but then Robbie Williams brought down Gregg Blundell in the area on 86 minutes.

It was a definite penalty and Blundell slotted it beyond the diving Dunbavin to put the game out of reach.

"Perhaps we were a little over confident," said Coleman. "And we have learnt a harsh lesson."

Full coverage in this week's Observer