With the game evenly poised after a 3-1 score line in the first leg both teams were looking to get off to a good start in the game. On 8 minutes Athletic took the lead in controversial circumstances.

The ball was played through by Ben Kay to Philip Williams who was clearly standing in an off side position. However Williams made no attempt to go for the ball and everyone stopped, everyone except Michael Downing who was clearly in an onside position when the ball was played. The Yellows centre forward picked up the ball and made his was into to box only to be up-ended by the Rochdale centre-half. Ben Kay stepped up to cooly finish the resultant spot kick and further extend Ashton's aggregate lead.

Rochdale were in no mood to simply lay down though and came back into the game playing some good football. On 31 minutes they equalised through there prolific Striker Evans.

The away side now kay siege on The Athletic goal and only due to excellent defending and a few missed opportunities the game remained level at half-time.

After a few harsh words from the home management at half time The Yellows came out with a renewed vigour and started passing the ball much better. The game was mainly played in the middle third of the pitch and was being extremely well controlled by the hugely impressive Ben Kay and Sam Bailey who battled well and kept possession where possible.

On 77 minutes Athletic found the goal they needed to further extend their aggregate lead and put then in front 2-1 in the game. The hardworking Michael Downing was playing in down the right channel. He controlled the ball and best both defender and 'Keeper to slot the ball into an unguarded net.

With the three goal cushion Athletic seemed to relax more and play the flowing football that had been evident in recent weeks. However, the final goal of the day came from the most unlikeliest of sources.

On 80 minutes centre half, Luke Holden, was put on in a Striking roll to nullify the away sides aerial presence from set pieces. It wasn't in the script that he would find himself one-on-one with the away 'Keeper to further extend Athletic's lead though. Good build up play saw Sam Bailey release the fans favourite Holden into an advanced position. He collected the ball and calmly slotted past the advancing Keeper like an accomplished forward to send the Home dugout into raptures.

Commiserations go to Rochdale Town who looked a very good side and certainly worthy of their semi-final place. However, they were simply not "allowed to play" in either of the legs due to the hard-work and desire off all The Athletic players. Attentions now turn to the final on Thursday 1st May 2014 at The home of Curzon Ashton FC. Before that their is the matter of quite a few league games in a congested run-in starting at Alsager Town away on Monday night.

Man Of The Match:
Sam Bailey - Worked tirelessly in centre midfield and a faultless passing display.
Once again, Thank You to RMB Transport for sponsoring today's Man of the Match and for their excellent support over the season.