The Silkmen slipped to a disappointing defeat at Alfreton Town this evening, going down 2-1 to the Conference North side. It continued the home side's impressive pre-season form as they notched up a fourth straight win over a near full strength Macclesfield Town side at the Impact Arena.

The Reds took the lead through Paul Clayton's seventh goal in four games on 11 minutes and held the advantage to the 64th minute when Terry Dunfield sped away after dispossessing Tony Butler to net the equaliser from the edge of the box. Substitute Matt Wilson notched the feather in the cap winner for the Reds on 85 minutes for Alfreton.

Team Line Up

Brain, Reid, Brisley, Walker, Hessey, Deen, Dunfield, Bell, Thomas, Evans, Gritton

Substitutes

Yeo for Gritton, Morgan for Deen (65 mins)

Speaking after the final whistle Keith Alexander was not too down hearted, preferring to stress the positives of another 90 minutes under the player's belts.

"It was another good work out this evening against a strong Alfreton side who I expect to do well this season," explained Keith. "Of course it is disappointing to lose and it is of concern that we are giving up a lot of goals from set pieces. However that is something we can work whilst at the same time building up our match fitness."

"Pre-season is a funny time and I would ask that everyone doesn't read too much into the results. Win them all and expectations go through the roof. Lose a few and the doubter have a field day. At the moment we are somewhere in between but the most important thing is that we are ready for the challenge of the league campaign which starts in earnest next month."

"Before then we have some tough games starting with the visit of Bolton to the Moss Rose. They have promised to bring a fairly strong line up so it is a game to look forward for both fans and players alike."