Chester secured progression to the next round of the FA Cup with a narrow 2-1 victory over Lower Breck on Saturday, ending a five-match winless streak. The National League North side relied on a late brace from winger Ruben Butt, on loan from Salford, who struck twice to avoid a replay in a closely contested tie at the Anny.

Butt, making his full debut for Chester, delivered a decisive finish in the closing stages after a tightly fought match. The win was also aided by a crucial save from Chester goalkeeper Luke Hewitson. Hewitson’s spectacular dive to his left denied Lower Breck’s Jak McCourt a second equalizing goal in the final moments, preserving Chester’s slim lead.

Lower Breck manager Gary Moore acknowledged the disappointment of the defeat but praised his team’s response amid a difficult week. “It was a sucker-punch to lose like that,” Moore said. “After a tough week in which we’ve lost a couple of games while playing poorly, they could have wilted and didn’t. On the contrary, that’s the best we’ve played so far this season.”

Playing well below Chester in the English football pyramid—ranked more than 50 places beneath their visitors—the hosts faced additional challenges in goal. With their primary goalkeeper, Alex Brown, sidelined due to his loan registration with Chester, Lower Breck borrowed Joe Bickerstaffe from nearby FC St Helens just before kick-off. Bickerstaffe, who met his new teammates on match day, performed competently for much of the contest but was ultimately beaten when Chester secured their winning margin.

The result marks a positive turning point for Chester following their recent run without victory. Meanwhile, Lower Breck’s spirited performance, despite their underdog status and roster limitations, highlighted their potential as the season progresses.