Nathan Beckham’s first game as Ryton & Crawcrook Albion boss ended in defeat as goals from George Pinder and Brandon Turnbull secured Chester-le-Street Town a 2-0 victory at Moor Park.

Albion, who had six new starters in the line -up and three more on the bench, did make an encouraging start under their new boss in the first game since Joe Kendrick had to step aside. They dominated the first half possession and chances but Pinder’s goal on the stroke of half time gave the hosts an undeserved lead.

The second half was more even and while Albion were pushing for an equaliser, it was the home side who doubled their advanatge 10 minutes from time. Charlie Grieveson then pulled one back in the closing stages but it was too little, too late.

Defeat leaves Albion 18th in the Northern League standings with 22 points from 25 games. Second-bottom Washington visit Crawcrook in Beckham’s first home match in charge next week.