DANNY Holmes’ first defeat as manager of Vauxhall Motors came on Saturday afternoon as his side narrowly lost away at Newcastle Town.

It was a frustrating 90 minutes at a cold Lyme Valley Stadium as the Motormen created the majority of the chances but were unable to convert any.

Before the game, two signings were announced as Lewis Willingham and Jason Akiotu went straight into the match day squad. Akiotu started from the off but Willingham remained on the bench.

The Motormen started strongly as a header from defender Adam Hughes was fired over the crossbar.

However, the hosts soon edged themselves in front as Dan Cockerline drove a low shot into the bottom corner with just seven minutes played.

Aiming to get themselves back into the game, the visitors full-back Ethan Gouldbourne got close to levelling the score line with a header before midfielder Ben Holmes’ chance was saved well by Newcastle keeper Joseph Slinn.

The hosts looked to extend their lead in the second half as Vauxhall keeper Ally Hughes was called upon to make two saves in quick succession.

Bringing some fresh energy onto the pitch, Holmes sent on the experienced Craig Curran to replace Connor Harwood on the hour mark.

However, despite tempers flaring on two separate occasions as two red cards were awarded - including one for Vauxhall striker Lewis Buckley - there were limited goal scoring opportunities created late on.

Vauxhall Motors  are back in action on Tuesday night as they host Mossley at The VanEupen Arena.