The Grove struggled to get into the first half and they were punished after nine minutes as a cross by Niall Davie was headed in at the back post by Josh Rae.

The goal seemed to kick Kidsgrove into life as Harry Clayton went close with a drilled shot that went wide of the post.

Captain Anthony Malbon showed some nice skill as he dropped his shoulder to lose his defender, however his shot was easy for Jack Steggles in the Carlton goal to save.

Nine minutes before half-time, Malbon was involved again as he chested a long diagonal ball before his high looping pass was met by Marc Grocott, whose half volley was heading into the bottom left corner until a block from Lawrence Gorman.

Seven minutes after the interval Carlton thought they doubled their lead after a free-kick from Niall Davie was flicked in at the front post by Gorman but the goal was disallowed for offside.

In the 63rd minute, Rae was involved again this time his cross fell to striker Jordan Wilson who had time to finish into the top left corner and double Carltons lead.

Rae was continuing to impress and used his skill to beat Ross Davidson before his 25-yard strike went narrowly over the bar.

Carlton were sustaining their pressure on the Grove defence, as Wilson turned Leon Ashman but his shot was brilliantly saved by Chris Martin.

Nearing the end of the game and Harry Clayton’s cross was met by substitute Aaron Johns and his first time strike was saved by Steggles, the rebound fell to Clayton but his shot could only find the side netting.

Kidsgrove will next face local rivals Newcastle Town at the Lyme Valley Stadium on Saturday 11th February, kick-off is at 3:00pm.

Attendance: 166