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*North West Counties Division One North*

Ashton Athletic were finally back where they belong on Saturday afternoon, returning to Brocstedes Park after recent floodlight issues had kept them away from home. With the lights repaired and supporters welcomed back, there was a sense of optimism in the air — one that was only partly reflected by the final scoreline.

On a surface that held up well despite weeks of heavy rain, the game burst into life at a high tempo, both sides committed to playing positive, progressive football. Ashton settled quickly and moved the ball with confidence, but it was the visitors who landed the first punch. On 17 minutes, AFC Blackpool made their chance count, punishing a rare opening to take the lead. The goal came slightly against the run of play. Ashton were moving the ball well and enjoying spells of control, but for all their tidy approach play, clear-cut chances were at a premium. Despite their fluency, they went into the interval trailing 1–0.

The second half told a different story. Ashton emerged with real intent and, despite the difference in league positions, looked every inch the better side. The midfield pairing of Luke Crompton and the outstanding Sam Oko began to dictate proceedings, repeatedly winning possession and driving the team forward. Blackpool were pinned back, struggling to stem the tide. The pressure finally told when Ashton drew level. From a corner, a Luke Crompton effort caused chaos in the box and centre-back Cal Wilson reacted quickest to prod the ball home, sparking belief around Brocstedes Park that a home win was there for the taking.

From open play, Ashton looked far more likely to add a second. However, football can be unforgiving. Against the flow of the game, Blackpool winger James Hughes struck again in the 81st minute, finishing clinically to restore the visitors’ lead and deliver a cruel blow to The Yellows. Ashton pushed to the end, but despite their dominance, the decisive chances wouldn’t come. It was a harsh outcome for a side who controlled large periods of the second half and played with real authority.

There were strong performances throughout the team. Cal Wilson and Max Leeson were excellent at the back, while Ewan Dodgson made a number of important saves to keep Ashton in the contest. Effort and commitment were never in doubt across the squad, but once again, Sam Oko stood head and shoulders above the rest — a clear Man of the Match in a performance that deserved a better result.

A defeat on paper, but one that showed plenty of reasons for optimism.

Starting XI
1 Ewan Dodgson
2 Jake Greene
3 Harry McGowan
4 Calum Wilson
5 Max Leeson
6 Zach Conway
7 Harry Woosey
8 Luke Crompton
9 Ben Crane
10 Samuel Oko
11 Joel Street

Substitutes: Joshua Nicholson, Jonathan Sodhi, Aleksander Calaku, Nathan Beca, Jason Foulds

All Photographs and Media by Nic Cain

Next Six Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
27/12/25 Ashton Town (A) 15:00
03/01/26 Holker Old Boys (H) 15:00
06/01/26 Steeton (H) 19:45
10/01/26 Bacup Borough (A) 15:00
17/01/26 Steeton (A) 15:00
24/01/26 Maghull (H) 15:00