Newton controlled large parts of the game and spent plenty of time on the front foot, seeing more of the ball and creating the better opportunities.

Their pressure was rewarded after 26 minutes when Rio Gill produced a good finish to put Newton ahead.

The visitors continued to look the stronger side, but Sandbach found an equaliser shortly before half-time, converting following a corner to send the teams into the break level.

The pattern remained much the same in the second half. Newton continued to dominate possession and territory and pushed for a second goal, but despite getting into promising areas, they were unable to create enough clear-cut chances to regain the lead.

With around ten minutes remaining, Sandbach struck against the run of play. A quick counter-attack released their striker, who cut inside onto his right foot before curling an excellent finish into the top corner to make it 2–1.

Newton continued to push forward in search of an equaliser during the closing stages, but Sandbach held on to take all three points.

It was a frustrating result for Newton after a performance in which they had been the better side for long periods. They certainly did not deserve to lose the game, but ultimately could not quite turn their possession and territorial advantage into enough clear chances to win it.