It was a disappointing start at the Deva Stadium for Chester FC fans, as the Blues succumbed to a 1-0 defeat against promotion contenders Brackley Town.

Off the back of an opening-day 3-0 defeat, fans were hoping the squad could get some points on the board in their National League North campaign.

But although the performance was improved from that seen in the Spennymoor Town loss, the Blues failed to make hay in a game of few clear-cut chances and succumbed to a 72nd-minute winner from Brackley's Connor Hall.

Returning striker Kurt Willoughby had arguably the best chance to score in the second half, but his low shot skittered wide of the post, while Connell Rawlinson and Harrison Burke had close-range efforts well saved.

Supporters don't have to wait too long for the next home encounter, as Chester welcome former Blues managers Bernard Morley and Anthony Johnson to the ground when they take on newly promoted Radcliffe FC on Tuesday (7.45pm ko).

See a gallery of Saturday's action and fans, mascots and sponsors at the game, with all photos taken by Rick Matthews.