WORCESTER City were left to rue missed chances as a late goal from Jack Lane secured hosts Tamworth a 1-0 victory in Vanarama National League North tonight.

After a dour opening period, City sparked into life and had numerous opportunities to break the deadlock at the Lamb Ground.

But, with nine minutes remaining, defender Lane broke Worcester’s hearts with a thumping effort from 10 yards out.

After two costly mistakes in City’s opening-day 2-2 draw against Harrogate Town, Ethan Ross retained his place in goal.

The young keeper was part of an unchanged side after a promising display at the Victoria Ground.

But they almost fell behind early on as ex-City midfielder Ellis Deeney swung in a free-kick for Paul Green, who shot wide.

On their new 3G pitch, Tamworth enjoyed more of the ball while the away defenders struggled with the sun in their eyes.

City’s first shot came on 24 minutes when Jordan Murphy’s 20-yard effort flew over.

Midfielder Chekaine Steele almost broke through Tamworth’s defence with a neat piece of skill moments earlier.

After a shaky start, Ross built in confidence as he held a thumping 40-yarder from defender Steve Tomassen.

Despite all Lambs’ first-half possession, City could have opened the scoring before the break.

Left-back Cieron Keane sent in a good delivery for Lee Hughes but his flicked effort went straight at keeper James Belshaw.

City made a bright start to the second period as Hughes directed his effort wide after the lively Steele fired the ball into the area.

Steele carved out a chance for Ebby Nelson-Addy, whose effort was blocked, before Murphy smashed the ball over soon after.

Hughes found Murphy at the back post but his header across goal was claimed by Belshaw.

Nelson-Addy had a great chance on 65 minutes but failed to trouble the keeper.

He also sent a free-kick straight into the arms of Belshaw.

Midfield colleague Junior English put a glancing header wide from Keane’s free-kick.

City were denied on 74 minutes when Belshaw saved from point-blank range to stop Hughes from Steele’s delivery.

But Tamworth went ahead in the 81st minute when centre-half Lane smashed the ball through a crowd of players after City failed to clear a free-kick and the visitors could not find a reply.

City (4-2-3-1): Ross; Gallinagh, Hutchison, Sharpe, Keane; English, Fitzpatrick; Murphy (Bishop 82), Nelson-Addy, Steele (Chilekwa 82); Hughes. Subs not used: Draper, Jackman, Batchelor.

Attendance: 770.

City man of the match: Steele.