Former Nottingham Forest and Liverpool star Nigel Clough was left facing the harsh realities of a manager's life. The new Burton manager could only look on helplessly as his side conceded three times in the second half and Atherstone United are now in fourth place in the league.

Burton claimed a penalty at the start of the second half when assistant manager Gary Crosbie was fouled as he ran into the box, but the referee waved play on.

It was an untidy effort in the 61st minute which put United in front. Danny Martin's cross eluded the Burton goalkeeper and the ball ran into the net of a defender's legs.

Two minutes later Atherstone went further in front when Leon Kelly steered his shot into the net from Mark Albrighton's pass.

Then ten minutes from time United put the game beyond their hosts when Paul White swivelled on the ball and fired a low shot wide of goalkeeper Nick Goodwin.