Luke Goddard apologised to supporters after Whitchurch Alport’s crushing 5–0 home defeat on Bank Holiday Monday against title favourites Hanley Town.

The Reds had gone into the game buoyed by a 5–1 weekend stroll at Racing Club Warwick which saw Alex Hughes on target four times.

But two days later at the KMJ Stadium a crowd of 269 supporters watched as Alport were given a football lesson by the Potteries outfit.

“I can only say sorry to the fans after a performance like that,” said Goddard.

“They were ruthless and fair play to them but we looked like we had forgotten how to play football and barely played three or four passes together throughout the 90 minutes.

“With a budget like they have it was always going to be a difficult afternoon but we haven’t competed and that’s the most difficult thing to take.”

Despite the setback, Goddard has set a target of four points from the club’s next two Midlands League fixtures with a visit from Worcester City followed by a trip to Haughmond.

Meanwhile midfielder Ryan Allcock will be missing until the outcome of his disciplinary hearing is finalised following his opening day dismissal at Tividale.

The club has launched a defence of their player but awaits news on the outcome.

Elsewhere Ellesmere Rangers proved a cut above Stockport Town in the North West Counties League with Harvey Lewis earning the plaudits after starring with a four goal haul in a 4-1 win on Saturday while the hosts replied through Thomas Beckett.

Rangers continued their impressive form with a thumping 8-0 win at derby rivals St Martins on Monday.

David Howarth starred with a hat-trick while Lewis struck a brace with further goals from Karl Bailey, Joseph Loughnane and an own goal completing the rout.

Meanwhile Wem Town are still waiting for their first win of the Salop Premier League season under manager Richard Hughes following a 2-0 defeat at home to Shawbury United U23s.