Ashton at the Double at St Helens

Tuesday 28th October 2008 - Vodkat NWCFL Premier Division
GPW Recruitment Stadium, St Helens, Merseyside

St Helens Town 1 – 2 Ashton Athletic

Attendance: 57

Ashton returned to Knowsley Road looking to repeat the result that saw them beat St Helens Town in the FA Vase 5 weeks earlier, and that they did duplicating the 2-1 score line. Ashton dominated possession and controlled the game and better finishing throughout the match should have produced a much more comfortable victory.

Both sides arrived at the game after a run of defeats and were equally eager to secure maximum points. For Ashton with injured skipper Steve Rothwell added to a growing injury list, Gaz Peet came in at left back whilst Mike Burke took the arm band.

It was Ashton that settled in to the task in hand quickest with the midfield duo of Mike Winer and Simon Gallanders dictating play whilst up front Kev Kynaston was giving the home defence a torrid time. Both Kynaston and strike partner Dave Sherlock had early long range efforts which signaled the visiting teams intentions early doors.

Playing on the break Town were then awarded a free kick when Graeme Mitchell was fouled on the edge of the area. Chris Bermingham’s powerful shot beat the wall and was too hot to handle in the icy conditions for Athletic keeper Joe Brobbin. Tom Sumner reacted fastest to the spill, however Brobbin was quick to block the close range effort before the defence eventually cleared the ball. Town then had another half chance 10 minutes later when Adam Gilchrist set up Paul Cliff 25 yards out but Cliff’s angled shot went over the bar.

After 14 minutes constant pressure on the St Helens back line paid dividends for Ashton and what appeared to be a fairly innocuous cross was well read by Defender Neil Jones and his back header to keeper Kevin Woods looked a formality. However a complete lack of communication between the players saw the header drift past the keeper and into the empty net for the most calamitous of own goals

Ashton now had their tails up and looked the far more confident of the two sides whilst Town struggled to cope with the incessant closing down of Ashton’s youthful team. With Town losing the ball too easily, Athletic should have extended their lead in the 33rd minute when Striker David Sherlock got 1-on-1 with Woods in the Town goal, the advancing keeper forced Sherlock wide, but in the process was rounded, leaving the goal unguarded. From an angle, Sherlock was unable to put the ball into the empty net hitting the side netting, and Town had been let off the hook.

Down the other end in the 37th minute, Town worked themselves a good opportunity which culminated in a Chris Bermingham cross just eluding the head of Graeme Mitchell when some goal bound contact might have levelled the scores. Athletic applied the pressure again towards the end of the half with the best effort coming from Kev Kynaston cutting in from the left before shooting wide.

Half Time:
St Helens Town 0 – 1 Ashton Athletic
The 2nd half started with referee Robinson taking centre stage, blotting his copy book in what had otherwise been a sound game for the man in black. Ashton’s Kevin Kynaston broke free of the defence latching on to a great through ball by Mike Winer and 1-on-1 Kynaston toed the ball passed the on rushing keeper Woods whose attempted play for the ball merely blocked Kynaston’s path resulting in firm contact that caused Kynaston to hit the deck in dramatic fashion. The Referee waved away the vociferous penalty claims from the visiting team and supporters and left the home crowd relieved at the lack of decision.

5 minutes later, another piercing through ball was set after by Mike Winer and keeper Kevin Woods, who both met the ball at the same time but the deflection fell kindly for the Ashton player, and with the keeper beaten, Winer squared the ball from a tight angle but an alert Paul Cliff was on hand to clear the danger for Saints.

Come the arrival of the hour mark, the game had become more even in terms of possession, though Athletic still looked the more threatening side. Town had a chance in the 68th minute when Adam Gilchrist played in Andy Webster in unfamiliar territory and the defenders looping effort brought a great stretching save out of Brobbin in the Athletic goal, and as Graeme Mitchell followed up the rebound his effort was saved again by Brobbin deflecting the effort for a corner.

A great run from deep by Gaz Peet in the 75^th minute came to an abrupt end brought down unceremoniously by defender Jones as Peet broke through the Saints back line. A free kick 20 yards out was awarded and only the sensible leniency of the referee prevented the home side being reduced to 10 men as Jones had already been booked earlier in the half.A great curling effort by Nic Bozonnet forced Woods into a full length save which was parried away to Gaz Peet following up, but from a tight angle he shot into the side netting.

Town’s play was improving and the equaliser came in the 77th minute when a long ball was played down the left channel where keeper Brobbin seemed to be favourite to clear but a momentary lapse caused a misjudgement by Brobbin and the ball carried beyond him and Tom Sumner picked up the ball, squared to Iain Dyson who made no mistake with an empty net.

Any hopes of a point for Town were soon laid to rest as an Ashton break down the left in the 83rd minute found Kynaston clear inside the box and unselfishly he squared it to Si Gallenders who beat the scrambling defence from close range to give Athletic the lead once again.

Town threw everything at the last 7 minutes but Ashton’s resolute defence held firm, with Town’s closest effort restricted to a long range Neil Jones effort which was tipped onto the crossbar by Brobbin and away for a corner that was well defended.

A Great workmanlike performance from Ashton that delivered the three points and allowed the team to move up to in 15^th place in the table, leapfrogging St Helens in the process. If this standard of performance and level of commitment can be maintained the games in hand over the teams above them should allow further progress.

Photos are available to view and purchase at

http://www.celebritypixuk.co.uk/portfolio43475.html

Action shots & video highlights of the game can also be viewed on the St Helens Blog - http://thetownblog.blogspot.com/

Ashton are on their travels again this Saturday 1^st November with a trip to Maine Road FC for a 3pm kick off, whilst the reserves are involved in a local home derby against league newcomers Wigan Robin Park.

Millers take the points as Winer sees red

Ashton Athletic 0 Millers 1.

Vodkat North West Counties Premier League
Saturday 25th October 2008

Ashton lost by the odd goal for the third game in a row against one of the league’s front runners New Mills on Saturday in a match somewhat marred by erratic refereeing and a controversial sending off for Ashton’s Mike Winer, on his first start of the season.

Mike, in for the injured Adam White, was one of three players making their first starts of the season, with Lee Edmunds coming in at centre half for Mark Court and French import Nicolas Bozonnet coming in on the right for the injured Steve Bennett.

New Mills also had some new faces in their line up with new signings goalkeeper Liam Higginbotham, midfielder Will Ahern and strikers Matt Smith and Steve Moores all making their full debuts for The Millers

It was Smith who had the first chance of the game but failed to get proper contact on a Will Ahern corner after 5 minutes before Liam Higginbotham was called into action for the first time in the ninth minute when he impressively tipped over Steve Rothwell's fierce left foot volley.

Unfortunately this was Rothwell’s last contribution as a recurrence of a groin injury forced an early change, with Gareth Peet coming in at left back for the Ashton skipper.

New Mills’ new strike force of Smith and Moores were causing the Ashton defenders some problems and the two linked up well to provide skipper Carlos Meakin with an opportunity which Ashton keeper Joe Brobbin responded well to.

Ashton striker Kev Kynaston then had a overhead volley which beat keeper Higginbottom but flew the wrong side of the crossbar.

The Millers took the lead in the 29^th minute when they were awarded a free kick just outside the Ashton penalty area. A moment of controversy missed by the referee as Millers’ attackers man handled the Ashton wall providing gaping hole for Carlos Meakin to drive the ball through. Although Ashton keeper Brobbin got a decent hand to it, he failed to prevent the ball finding the bottom corner.

Ashton's best chance of the first half came just after the half hour. Liam Higginbotham was alert to rush out of his area to prevent an Ashton attack but his clearance only found Nic Bozonnet who setup Simon Gallanders, and from 40 yards his first time shot drifted goal bound over the heads of the recovering defenders. Unfortunately the effort bounced off the underside of the crossbar and back into play, however the Ashton follow up was not quite quick enough and the ball was cleared to safety.

New Mills were forced into a substitution at the interval when Lee Bromley replaced Micky Ryan who was unable to continue after suffering a clash of heads in the first half.

The visitors were playing up the slope in the second half and the defensive unit had to be strong in the opening minutes as Ashton pushed forward. It looked like The Millers had doubled their advantage in the 55^th minute when Will Ahern's free kick was brilliantly headed in by Matt Smith but referee Anderson spotted the interference of Steve Moores as he took out two would be defenders to give Smith the clear header.

Mr Anderson took centre stage for the next part of the game as he brandished his yellow card on several occasions in a game which was competitive but never dirty. Ashton's Mike Winer suffered as a consequence and following an initial booking on the hour for an innocuous challenge, and a second yellow five minutes later for a tackle that was at worst a foul, Ashton were reduced to 10 men for the last 25 minutes.

Winer unfairly dealt with after 2 innocuous tackles

Despite the loss of Winer Ashton battled on gamely continuing to hold the balance of possession in the second half. The Millers defensive unit stood up to the challenge well and on the rare occasions that Ashton did manage to breach the Millers back line Liam Higginbotham’s assured handling prevented an equaliser.

So New Mills gained a crucial victory against a team that they failed to score against last season and this win nicely sets up a crucial month as they face home games against Premier Division rivals AFC Fylde and Newcastle Town.

Meanwhile Ashton must dust themselves down for the short trip to St Helens on Tuesday night for a 7.45pm KO and what will be a crucial match for both sides.

First half lapses are costly for Ashton

Monday 20th October 2008
Vodkat Premier League
Atherton Collieries 3 Ashton Athletic 2

Two great goals from Kev Kynaston were scant reward for Ashton as slack defending in the first half presented a resurgent Atherton Collieries with a second win in three days on Monday night, and with it Colls hauled themselves out of the basement league position.

Atherton took the lead in the 3rd minute when Troy Hayder rolled his marker in the box and whilst being shepherded away from goal, and in a taggle of legs playing for the ball Hayder went to ground and referee Moore pointed to the spot much to the disbelief of the Ashton defenders. Hayder stepped up and dispatched the penalty with some ease.

Ashton responded well and a Mike Burke flick header from a corner forced a goal line clearance by the man on the post. minutes later Gaz Peet, making his first start of the season, then set off on a maizy run beating 3 would be tacklers before unleashing a shot that keeper Mike Perkins did well to block to safety.

With Ashton in control and looking likely to equalise, Collieries were then awarded a soft free kick wide on the right wing. A pin point delivery on 23 minutes found Simon Howard unmarked on the penalty spot and with a clean header he found the top corner to increase the home side's lead against the run of play.

Ashton surged forward again and on 30 minutes Kev Kynaston, also starting his first league game of the season unleashed a powerful volley that dipped inches over the bar, a range finder for later in the game.

Atherton were having to play on the break and from an Ashton corner they did so with some effect. In the 38th minute missed tackles allowed the lively Ben Wharton to break free and although his attempted shot was scuffed the effort found the supporting Troy Hayder who passed the ball into an open net. With the Ashton back four all at sea Hayder could have made it four just before half time but put the effort wide.

The second half was one way traffic as Ashton responded to a half time managerial blasting and got back into the game in the 49th minute as a defence splitting pass from Si Gallanders released Kynaston. One on one with the keeper and the coolest of finishes saw the ball nestle into the corner of the net to reduce the deficit.

With defensive shape and composure restored at the back Ashton pressed forward with greater purpose however the defensive duo of Simon Howard and player Manager Dave Conlon were on top form holding back the Ashton waves of attacks with some excellent backs to the wall defending, supported by an assured presence in the form of keeper Mike Perkins.

It was not until the 84th minute that Ashton broke through again as Kynaston was on hand once more, showing tremendous technique with a spectacular volley from the edge of the box which left the Colls keeper standing.

Kynaston brace fails to rescue Ashton

The final 6 minutes was again all Ashton with several efforts flashing across the face of the Atherton goal but failing to find the target or an Ashton attacker.

A frustrating night's work for Ashton all round, and one which must be put firmly in the past as the next game looms quickly in the shape of New Mills at Brocstedes Park on Saturday, 3pm KO

Ashton blank at Glossop

Saturday 20^th October 2008

Vodkat League Premier Division

Glossop North End 2, Ashton Athletic 1

Ashton were edged out of the points at Glossop by a Nick Allen thunderbolt 15 minutes from time that capped off a terrific second half fight back by the home side, after Ashton had taken a stoppage time lead in the final action of the first half.

There was very little goal mouth action in the first period as the defences stood firm and the keepers comfortably dealt with speculative crosses and through balls. However there was no lack of endeavour from both sides, attempting to wrestle the initiative. Ashton’s best play came through the efforts of Steve Bennett down the Ashton right but his crosses were well dealt with by the Glossop back four. For the home side the aerial ability of Martin Parker caused some discomfort for the Ashton backline but after a while that threat reduced.

As half time approached Ashton were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box as powerful shot struck from distance by Dave Sherlock the ball hit Glossop skipper Dave Young on an outstretched hand as he moved forward to block the effort. Referee Johnson had no hesitation to award the free kick despite the Glossop protests and Sherlock stepped up to drive the free kick into the net, giving the Glossop keeper Fielding no chance.

The second forty five was in stark contrast to the first half stalemate as both teams opened up playing some fast flowing football, with Glossop’s Rick Bailey becoming increasingly influential, making several runs towards goal. His shot in the 51^st minute was deflected wide for a corner, from which Kelvin Lugsden headed back across goal for Nick Allen to turn in from short range and make it 1-1.

Glossop were pressing again, and Rick Whelan had a shot from a tight angle pushed wide. Then on the hour a great cross from Simon Gallanders beat all the defenders and was just inches ahead of a despairing lunge by Dave Sherlock’s at the far post.

Glossop were creating some pressure but their efforts came from distance as first Kay shot over the bar, Hind at the keeper and Parker flicking a header just wide.

The winner came on 75 minutes, and it was a screamer. Allen picked the ball up 30 yards out, advanced 5 yards towards goal, and then unleashed an unstoppable left foot shot that flew into the side of the net, giving the Ashton goalkeeper Joe Brobbin no chance.

Glossop could have added a minute later when substitute Tom Bailey got behind the defence on the right, drew the goalkeeper and squared for Rick Bailey. With an open net gaping, North End’s leading scorer mis-kicked the ball and it was cleared.

As time ran out Ashton committed men forward searching for the equaliser and it almost came as 2 minutes into injury time Steve Bennett swivelled in the box and produced a shot over his shoulder that beat keeper Fielding but floated agonisingly wide of the angle of the goal. Glossop therefore took all 3 points, gaining revenge for their defeat at Ashton, just 3 weeks earlier.

Ashton move on quickly to a match on Monday night at Atherton Collieries 7.45pm KO.

Ashton’s Reserves were unlucky to go down 1-3 to high flying Bootle, as a Kev Kynaston had given them the lead, and had been well in the match at 1-1 early in the second half before a controversial refereeing decision saw Ashton reduced to 10 men as James Deane was given a completely unjustified red card.

Under 17's rue missed chances in Lancs cup exit then bounce back in the league

Sunday 11^th October 2008

Lancashire Cup 2^nd Round

Blackburn Lammac U/17 1 Ashton Athletic U/17 0

In a very tight and entertaining game Ashton were unfortunate not to progress to the next round of the competition, with both teams battling hard to win control of the game but it was Lammack who won the match with a well taken fee kick.

After an early goal by Tom Starr was harshly ruled out for off side, the home team started to take control of the midfield area producing some nice football and creating a couple of half chances. The Ashton defence was being organised superbly by the returning Ross Shepard and Lammack were finding it tough to break through. The last 15 minutes of the half belonged to Ashton and with a bit more luck in front of goal could have taken the lead. H/T 0-0

Five minutes into the 2^nd half Martin (Pazza) Latham had to come off with blisters!! And to make things worse, Daniel Ferguson who had been struggling with a leg injury for most of the game couldn’t continue, so after losing a couple of defenders we had to re shuffle with Adam Brown moving back into defence and Josh Pennington coming on into midfield.

Lammack continued to press and were unfortunate not to score when goalkeeper Anthony Burns made a good double save, Back down the other end Ashton could have taken the lead when Tom Haywood from 5 yards out put his shot wide with only the goalkeeper to beat.

The Ashton midfield started to gain control andcreated yet another chance when Josh Taffe drifted in from the right wing and somehow blazed the ball over the bar when it looked easier to score. With chances coming and going at both ends extra time was looming.

Both teams continued to press forward and Lammack were rewarded when they won a free kick 20 yards from goal. A well placed strike flew into the top corner of the goal.to give the Blacburn team the lead 1-0

With the clock ticking away, Ashton still created another couple of chances to draw level or even sneak a win, but it was not going to be and full credit to both teams who produced a very entertaining game, and good luck to Lammack in the next round.

Sunday 18^th October 2008

South Lancs League

Horwich U/17s - 1 Ashton Athletic U/17s - 4

Back to winning ways this week with a battling performance against a good Horwich side.

Ashton started the game well with some neat touches between the midfield and attack and created a couple of half chances, but the Horwich defence stood firm.

Horwich looked dangerous on the counter attack with both wingers causing problems for our full backs. From another attack Horwich should have taken the lead when a great cross was delivered into the box but the striker put it wide.

Ashton, with Jake Leyland and Daniel Barton starting to control the midfield forced Horwich onto the back foot with a couple of corners and long shots. Then, from a long throw by Daniel (Rory) Ferguson, Jake Leyland flicked it into the top corner with a good header 0-1.

Ashton continued to press and 10 minutes before half time Connor Callian was brought down in the penalty box by the Horwich goalkeeper. Up stepped Daniel Barton to coolly send the goalie the wrong way 0-2.

Horwich up their game and had another chance to score, but goalkeeper Anthony Burns made a good save. After a couple of unsavoury tackles from both sides the referee had to have strong words with a number of players and both teams were lucky not to have a player sent off. H/T 0-2

Horwich started the 2^nd half on top and were rewarded when they won a free kick just inside the Ashton half. The free kick was floated in, Ashton’s defence went to sleep, and the Horwich player headed into the top corner 1-2.

The goal made Horwich believe they could get something from the game and they had a few chances to equalise, but credit to the defensive duo Ross Shepard and Martin (Pazza) Latham we looked strong.

Back on the attack we had a couple more chances to score with Tom Starr, who was having a quiet game hit the post. With the introduction of the substitutes we started to control the game, and with 15 minutes to go Adam Brown got on the end of a good move to score with low drive from 15 yards out 1-3.

This was now game over for Horwich who let their heads drop, with 5 minutes left Tom Starr jinked his way past a couple of defenders and slotted into the bottom corner of the net 1-4.

This was a good game from start to finish with Horwich playing their part, but Ashton started and ended the game better and deserved all 3 points which moves the team up to fourth spot.

Fixture amendments

Ashton's away fixture at St Helens Town has been changed from 27th December to Tuesday 28th October 2008 at Knowsley Road, due to Rugby League commitments at the Ground.

Meanwhile the postponed Congleton Town and Flixton home games from a few weeks ago have been re arranged for Tuesday 18th November and Tuesday 25th November 2008 respectively. Both will kick off at 7.45 at Brocstedes Park.

Dates are yet to be announced for the other postponed matches
Formby Home
Winsford Away

We will also now have to wait and see whether we are given these or another rearranged a fixture on Boxing Day.

Formby league match postponed

Torrential rain late Tuesday afternoon and evening caused the postponement of the Formby league match, with the pitch unable to cope with the volume of water put down over the short period.

Next games will be this Saturday when the first team travel to Glossop North End, 3pm KO and then take the short trip to Atherton Collieries on Monday night 7.45 KO.
Meanwhile the reserves face Bootle at Brocstedes Park on Saturday 3pm kick off

Ryder Hat trick sinks Nelson

Saturday 11^th October 2008

Vodkat Cup Round One

Nelson FC 2 Ashton Athletic 3 AET

Two late spot kicks in extra time by Will Ryder secured Ashton Athletic a second round place in the Vodkat League Cup with a 3-2 win at Nelson FC on Saturday.

It was however Nelson that got off to a flying start when Chris Clarkson headed them in front from Chris Ogunyode's superb cross after only two minutes.
Nine minutes later, however, Ashton equalised when Will Ryder struck a free kick just inside the post while Nelson were still organising their defensive wall.
Chances came at both ends and Steve Bennett's header struck the top of the Nelson crossbar following a corner after 18 minutes before Chris Ogunyode's free kick was fisted off the goal-line at the other end by Ashton keeper Joe Brobbin.

Following a somewhat cautious first half, the action stepped up a gear after the interval with some excellent flowing football on display from both teams. Daniel Parker saw a good effort turned over the bar after he slipped past the Ashton defence on 50 minutes.
But, two minutes later, only an instinctive one handed save by Billy Carrington kept a glancing header from Dave Sherlock out of the Nelson net. Carrington came to the rescue of his team again team with a finger tip save from a Will Ryder chip after a terrific defence splitting pass by Simon Gallanders.

Chris Ogunyode saw his curling free kick knocked away from the bottom corner by Joe Brobbin before Martin Payne got in on the act cutting in from the right but shooting off target. Ashton’s Adam White drove a shot across the Nelson goal, hitting the far post and rebounding to striker Dave Sherlock, but he could only steer his instinctive volley wide of the post.
It was end to end stuff as both sides introduced fresh legs and Nelson’s Martin Payne's low-cross shot almost found Ogunyode at the far post after 78 minutes but Ashton skipper Steve Rothwell knocked it behind at the expense of a corner and then keeper Joe Brobbin managed to block Ogunyode's shot from a tight angle shortly afterwards.
Paul Crorken shot wide after a good build up by Lee Kershaw and Alex Mugan before Ashton substitute Paul Hynes broke clear at the other end but pulled his shot across the Nelson goalmouth from a great scoring chance.

When the game went into 30 minutes extra time Nelson again got off to a flyer. Martin Payne cut in again from the right wing and unleashed found the top corner with a spectacular left foot shot to restore the Blues' the lead on 91 minutes.
Nelson’s best opportunity to put the match beyond Ashton’s reach fell to Lee Kershaw when he burst through into the penalty area but drove a low shot beyond the far post.
In the second period of extra time, Nelson were again undone by a quick free kick as Will Ryder was played in and as he burst into the penalty area a tired challenge by Martin Payne up ended Ryder and resulted in a penalty for Ashton. Ryder scored from the spot to level the scores once again on 109 minutes.

Three minutes later, with the visitors pushing forward for the winner, Craig Redhead's late tackle brought down Paul Hynes and Ashton were awarded their second penalty. Once again Will Ryder drove in the spot kick to put the visitors in front for the first time in the game. Ashton held on comfortably with some controlled football to go through to the next round of the cup, and a home tie with Abbey Hey FC

Ashton get back to League action on Tuesday night with a home match against Formby FC, 7.45 kick off at Brocstedes Park.

Ashton’s reserves improving form continued on Saturday and after last week’s 3-2 away win at Cheadle Town, backed it up with a solid performance against league leaders Padiham FC. Two early strikes from Kev Kynaston gave Ashton the lead before Padiham fought back to earn a 2-2 draw.

Wigan past players retain challenge Trophy

Wigan Athletic's past players eventually ran out comfortable 4-1 winners against Ashton's old boys at Ashton's Brocstedes Park Ground, retaining the Peter Catterall Memorial Trophy in its third year.

Wigan striker Stuart Barlow was a constant thorn in Ashton's side throughout the game and helped himself to a couple of great goals however the best goal of the night was a stunning 25 yard free kick from Ashton left back Paul Hamilton to pull he scores level midway through the first half.

However in the end the ex Latics' players, that also included Peter Atherton, Kev Langley, Neil Rimmer, David Hamilton and organiser Dave Glenn amongst their ranks, showed enduring fitness and skill to win the day, and with two late strikes put the icing on the cake for the ex Pro's.

A great night was had by all again, with the proceeds from the gate receipts going towards the continuing development of grass roots football at Ashton and a donation to Wigan Hospice.

The players will reconvene next year, by which time the stiffness should just about have worn off, and Ashton will be even more determined to get their hands on the trophy.

Wigan Atheltic Past Players match goes ahead

Tonight's match re scheduled match between Ashton Athletic's Old Boys and the former players of Wigan Athletic will definitely go ahead at Ashton's Brocstedes Park Ground - 7.30 ko.
There will be a small charge on the gate and the Clubhouse and Bar will be open beforehand for refreshments for the spectators.

Vase dreams broken for Ashton as Nostell make the most of their lifeline

FA VASE 1st Round Proper REPLAY

Nostell MW 3 Ashton Athletic 1

Ashton’s progress in this year’s FA Vase ended in controversial fashion in deepest Yorkshire and unfortunately refereeing decisions were at the heart of it, as was the case in the original match last Saturday.

Both Ashton and Nostell were aggrieved in this first encounter as erroneous decisions in the eyes of Nostell and bad timekeeping from Ashton’s perspective blighted a terrific cup tie played in good spirit throughout. Ashton bemoaned the copious amounts of added time at the end of 90 minutes, and even more so when 3 minutes of overtime at the end of extra time (despite the lack of interruptions in play) and during which Nostell grabbed last gasp equalisers. Meanwhile Nostell complained about an early penalty awarded and converted by Ashton, and particularly the red carding in the second period of extra time of defender Matthew Denton for persistent foul and abusive language, despite the fact that both incidents seemed blatant in the extreme.

The replay on Tuesday night got underway with Ashton once again out of the blocks quickest forcing the home team onto the back foot, with wingmen Steve Bennett and Tom Potter particularly prominent. On the break Nostell then had a claim for a penalty as Ashton keeper collided with an onrushing striker, and although there was contact between the players Brobbin slight touch on the ball before the contact with Dave Nicholas combined with the theatrical dive by the striker were probably the deciding factors for the referee who waved play on.

In the 7^th minute Ashton’s Bennett chased down a hopeful through ball which seemed comfortable for Nostell keeper Sam Dobbs however a momentary hesitation by Dobbs allowed Bennett to dispossess him and as he advanced on an open goal Dobbs dragged him to the floor - an automatic penalty, and everyone just waited for the red card for Dobbs.

In the spirit of the “Respect” campaign for referees to a man the Ashton players and management uttered not a word about the expected dismissal of the goalkeeper however to the amazement of all in attendance (and I include the Nostell camp in this) Dobbs was reprieved and Nostell remained with their full quota of players. Will Ryder made no mistake with the spot kick to give Ashton a deserved lead but everyone was left perplexed at the leniency of the referee towards the Nostell keeper.

Ashton continued to dominate the opening exchanges with Tom Potter driving a shot over the bar before Dave Sherlock set Will Ryder clear on goal, but his powerful drive also fizzed over the bar. The speed of Ashton’s players was causing great unease amongst the Nostell ranks, and several late challenges went unpunished by the man in black, giving encouragement to the home side and allowing them a foothold in the game.

Then in the 14th minute a long throw from the Nostell left was all too easily flicked on to the back post by skipper Dave Watts, turned back into the six yard box by Barry Rankin and then poked home by the unmarked Craig Stephens.

The goal gave the home side a massive boost and with good movement off the ball started to ask questions of the Ashton defence in open play. However it was a set piece two minutes later that was Ashton’s undoing again, as a free kick from the right wing by Paul Bedford flew over Ashton keeper Brobbin and into the corner of the net to give Nostell an undeserved advantage.

Nostell’s physical approach left Ashton skipper Rothwell, defender Mike Burke and influential midfielder Will Ryder all nursing knocks following late challenges on them, which had occurred without any words of caution from the referee to the Nostell players, or in some instances without even the award of a free kick.

Ashton stood up to the challenge and fought back, but frustratingly found that their physical challenges got instantly penalized.

As half time approach one of many surging runs through the Nostell defence by Will Ryder seemed to have drawn another penalty as the Ashton midfielder was clearly taken out in the box, but this time the referee waved play on. Ashton continued to cause problems down the flanks but the massively influential figure of Nostell Captain Dave Watts always seemed to be on hand to prevent a clear strike on goal by Ashton.

The loss of the injured Ryder at half time was a blow for Ashton but with Simon Gallanders dropping deeper and live wire Paul Hynes joining Dave Sherlock up top Ashton kept up their momentum and pinned the home team back for the early part of the second half, probing for the equalizer.

The Nostell defence was unrelenting however, superbly marshaled by man of the Match Dave Watts. Meanwhile Nostell were dangerous on the break and as Ashton started to commit more men forward in search of the equalizer the 73^rd minute saw yet another controversial decision as left winger Dave Nicholas and Ashton centre back Mike Burke competed for a long ball into the box. With both players tussling with each other in one of those “six of one and half a dozen of the other” moments, referee Holmes incensed the away side by pointing to the spot despite both he and his assistant being at least 25 yards from the incident, and on the blind side of the coming together. Nicholas stepped up, gleefully converted the spot kick to give his team a two goal cushion.

For the last 20 minutes Ashton threw caution to the wind but could not unlock the home defence, the nearest effort falling to Steve Bennett as a lob over keeper Dobbs from 25 yards beat the keeper but it also floated agonisingly over the bar.

Nostell killed the game with some aplomb not hesitating to stop any Ashton advances as high up the field as possible, getting away with spoiling tactics that the officials failed to control. This match and the original tie were generally played in good spirit by both teams but in the closing stages some tackles started to fly in with both sides unsure of the boundaries they were working too as a result of the variance in standards being applied by the officials. A quick flurry of cards in the last throws of the match created something of a negative end to the game which did not reflect the two excellent matches between fully committed teams.

After the whistle there was Respect a plenty between the two sets of players and management however for both sides came a feeling that the quality and consistency of refereeing must be improved upon if the current “Respect” campaign is to bear real fruit. In most people’s eyes Respect must be earned not given.

It is however Nostell that progress to the second round and a trip to the North East to face Ryton of the Northern League in November.

Ashton’s next match will be another Cup encounter against Nelson FC in the first round of the Vodkat Cup.

Photos of both games are available to view on the Nostell web site - www.pitchero.com/clubs/nostellminerswelfare

YOUTH NEWS - UNDER 17'S

Ashton Athletic U17’s continue to make steady progress this season with a great 7-1 win over Aspull Juniors last Sunday. After a mixed opening 10 minutes, Ashton started to dominate the game with some good movement and interchange play. Midway through the 1^st half after some good work on the right wing between Daniel Ferguson and Tom Starr, the ball was played inside to Adam Brown who was lurking on the edge of the box, with a good first touch he then sent a shot which looped over the goalkeeper into the the roof of the net.1-0.

With Daniel Barton, Adam Brown and Jake Leyland bossing the midfield, Ashton then created another couple of chances which should have been converted but the striker didn’t have his scoring boots on!! 5 minutes before half time from a defensive mistake, Ashton gave away a needless corner, the Aspull player put in a great ball which the Ashton defence failed to deal with, and the Aspull striker put the ball in the back of the net.1-1. After some strong words from the Ashton manager about switching off from defensive duties Ashton regained the upper hand and started to play football again.

Back on the attack, Connor Callinan collected the ball on the right wing, he waltzed past a couple of defenders and produced a quality cross which was headed in at the near post by the on rushing Tom Starr.2-1.H/T. A very frustrating half for Ashton because the game should have been dead & buried but at 2 – 1, Aspull were still very much in the game. A quick start in the second half was essential & was clearly hammered home to the Ashton players at half time.

Straight out of the blocks in the 2^nd half Ashton scored the 3^rd goal when Tom Starr on the left wing crossed for Adam Brown to score a fine looping header for his second of the game 3-1. Ashton introduced their substitutes and with his first touch of the ball one of the subs, Tom Haywood coolly slotted the ball past the advancing Aspull goalkeeper into the corner of the net 4-1.

After another 10 minutes of good football and passing moves Josh Taffe broke into the Aspull box, under pressure from the Aspull defence he showed good strength and speed to make it 5-1.

Aspull were now playing for pride and to their credit they didn’t give up, they had a couple of half chances but struggled to breakdown the Ashton defence of Shaun Davies and Martin (Pazza)Latham. Back on the attack Ashton then made another break through when Adam Brown played a great ball over the Aspull defence to Tom Starr who passed it into the net 6-1.

Aspull once again refused to give in and after a good run and cross from their winger, Ashton's right back Mike Hinnigan somehow managed to handle the ball in the penalty box, the referee who was having a good game had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. With Ashton goalkeeper Anthony Burns waving his hands, jumping up and down he did enough to unsettle the Aspull penalty taker who blasted the ball over the bar. Once again a defensive lapse or a bad decision made could have cost Ashton a goal, and these incidents need to be eradicated along with the crime of giving away cheap free kicks. With only a few minutes left Adam Brown who has had a great start to the season completed his hat trick when he got on the end of another good move 7-1F/T.

The Ashton players now seem to be taking on board what is being asked of them and are playing some good football. The hard work & a more settled formation in which all players know their roles is now paying dividends with game on game improvements & evidence that the lads are bonding well as a team!!

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Co-Operative Challenge Trophy First Round Draw

Twenty-eight teams have entered the Co-Operative Challenge Trophy for season 2008/09.

Barrow AFC, Burscough FC, Fleetwood Town and Southport FC were the seeded teams and therefore received a bye into the Second Round.

The draw for the first round is as follows:

Ashton Athletic v AFC Blackpool
Nelson v Colne
Lancaster City v Darwen
Atherton Colleries v Leigh Genesis
Atherton LR v Bacup Borough
Daisy Hill v Ramsbottom United
Squires Gate v Radcliffe Borough
Padiham v Kendal Town
Holker Old Boys v AFC Fylde
Chorley v Skelmersdale United
Rossendale United v Clitheroe
Bamber Bridge v Marine

Ties will be played week commencing 10th November 2008.

Ashton denied cup win with last gasp equalisers(TWICE)

Ashton Athletic FC 4 Nostell Miners Welfare FC 4 AET
FA Vase 1st round proper

Ashton failed to progress to the second round after two injury time equalisers by visitors Nostell MW from Wakefield forced a replay next Tuesday night. The first in the 4th minute of stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes, and the second controversially with the last kick of the game in the 3rd minute of added time in extra time.

The game ebbed and flowed for the full 2 hours 7 minutes with both teams fully committed and playing in the right spirit. Ashton got quickly into their stride and took the lead in the 2nd minute when Paul Hynes was dragged to the ground just inside the penalty box. Referee Copeland had no hesitation and awarded a penalty which Simon Gallanders dispatched at the second attempt after Nostell keeper Sam Dobbs blocked the spot kick.
Nostell's first effort came in the 6th minute as the lively Craig Stephens spun his marker but blasted wide.
The game went into stalemate for the remainder of the half with Ashton just about maintaining the upper hand. The most notable effort came from a Simon Gallanders effort who got on to the end of a Will Ryder cross that keeper Dobbs saved.

The second half saw Nostell up their game winning the midfield battle and putting Ashton on the back foot. Steve Rothwell cleared off the line and Joe Brobbin was forced into 3 superb saves and a series of crosses to deal with as Nostell increased the pressure.
A long range effort struck the bar and some terrific scrambling defence from Ashton cleared the rebound. Ashton were having to play on the break but doing so effectively and Steve Bennett nearly sneaked in at the far post but could only turn a Paul Townshend cross wide at full stretch.
Ashton started to get a foothold in the game midway through the half and started to threaten the Nostell goal again. Despite this it was Nostell that produced an end result as a wicked cross come shot from a Dave Nicholas free kick 25 yards out was delivered across the face of goal and a moments hesitation from Ashton keeper Brobbin saw the ball fly into the corner of the net to pull a goal back for the visitors in the 72nd minute.
Ryder bags Ashton's 2nd
Ashton continued to claw their way back in the game and were looking strong again, stung by the equaliser. As extra time loomed large Simon Gallanders drove forward, drew the defence and pulled the ball back to Will Ryder who threw himself forward to poke the ball home in the 86th minute.
Nostell threw men forward with keeper Dobbs taking up an auxillary centre half role and penning Ashton back for the remainder of the match. The build up of pressure finally brought its dividends as dangerman Craig Stevens escaped his marker and popped up unmarked at the back post to give Nostell a last gasp equaliser in the 4th minute of added time.

Sherlock first to the rebound for Ashton's 3rd
Despite this gut wrenching event, Ashton responded superbly with two early goals in extra time as a great shot from Will Ryder was too hot to handle for Sam Dobbs who could only push the ball onto the bar allowing Dave Sherlock following in to head home the rebound in the 92nd minute. Two minutes later Ashton were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box which Chris Lawton drove low and hard into the bottom corner to give Ashton a 2 goal cushion.


Lawton screamer
Ashton were controlling the game until a verbal barrage towards the referee by Nostell's Matthew Denton, resulted in a straight red card and this seemed to have sealed the Yorkshire team's destiny.
However conversely the decision seemed to re galvanise Nostell whilst Ashton switched off leading to a lapse in concentration. With 5 minutes of the standard extra time remaining Ashton looked comfortable until possession was unnecessarily surrendered high up the field with men out of position. A fast break down the left created an opening and a deep cross reached skipper Dave Watts who escaped his marker to slot home was seemed to be a consolation.

However with renewed belief and the referee somehow finding 3 minutes added time Nostell were allowed one more assault and throwing men forward again a long throw found its way to the back post and substitute Darren Rushton stole in unmarked to secure a most unlikely draw.

Having squandered the opportunity to progress Ashton must now do it the hard way and make the journey across the Pennines with determined minds, for the replay at Nostell's ground in Crofton Village, Wakefield next Tuesday 7.45pm KO.