The Blues slipped out of the National League North play-off positions on the back of their 1-0 defeat, which moved Hednesford into the top-seven.

Manager Parkinson told Chester FC TV: “Extremely tough (to take). I thought the players acquitted themselves brilliantly today.

“It was always going to be a game with very little between the two teams. The quality that Hednesford have got is of the highest quality at this level and like I’ve said, for some of our young up-and-coming players to go toe-to-toe with them and come out on top of a lot of individual duels was impressive.

“But, also a bitter pill to swallow we’ve not been able to get over the line.”

Aaron Jarvis headed in the only goal in first half stoppage time, while Chester’s Connor Murphy was sent off early in the second half.

Southport, who have appointed former Chester boss Calum McIntyre as their new manager, were beaten 2-1 at home by Telford.

Other results: Buxton 4 Marine 2; Hebburn 1 Harborough 1; Hereford 0 King’s Lynn 3; Morecambe 2 Scarborough 0; Radcliffe 3 Merthyr 3; Spalding 3 Darlington 2; Spennymoor 2 Chorley 0; Worksop 0 Brackley 1.

Boreham Wood are now 12 points clear at the top of the National League after a thrilling 4-3 victory over Hartlepool United.

Other results: Forest Green 2 Harrogate 2; Halifax 2 Yeovil 0; Aldershot 1 Gateshead 0; Altrincham 2 Carlisle 4; Barrow 1 Eastleigh 1; Solihull 2 Kidderminster 1; Tamworth 0 Woking 1; Wealdstone 3 Southend 2; Worthing 0 Sutton 3; Boston 2 Scunthorpe 1; Fylde 3 Hornchurch 1.