DROYLSDEN chief Dave Pace insists it's business as usual at the Butcher's Arms despite his Bloods' partner Stephen Vaughan's shock Chester City takeover.

Vaughan has bought Chester in a deal which sees Pace also become a director.

But Pace, who doubles up as Droylsden's chairman and manager, says he and Vaughan are staying with the Bloods and that he remains committed to the club - although not to his players unless they quickly improve.

He warned of a mass clear-out after seeing them crash to a 3-2 FA Cup defeat at previously winless Bradford PA.

Safely through to the third qualifying round are Altrincham. Rod Thornley responded to a penalty miss by hitting a brilliant hat-trick in a 4-1 Moss Lane rout of Frickley.

Witton, too, march on thanks to a 4-2 victory over Northern League leaders Whitley Bay, while a last-minute Gareth Hamlet equaliser earned Ashton United a replay at Stocksbridge tomorrow.

There was no dream start for Hyde's new caretaker boss Dave Nolan as the Tigers crashed to an 84th minute penalty at Vauxhall after Simon Yeo had headed them back on terms.

Maine Road's fairytale run was finally ended by Marine, 2-0, while Ramsbottom and Rossendale also both bit the dust.

Tweet