Ashton Athletic travelled to league leaders Nelson knowing the scale of the task, yet for long spells they produced football that belied the gulf in league positions. In a first half full of energy, composure and attacking intent, Ashton were unquestionably the better side, moving the ball with purpose and creating the clearer openings.

The defining moment came when Marcus Cusani timed his run to perfection, racing onto a superb through ball before coolly slotting beyond the advancing goalkeeper. What should have been a deserved opener was instead denied by a baffling offside flag—one that post-match footage would show to be clearly incorrect. It was a pivotal moment; not necessarily decisive in the final outcome, but one that shifted the momentum of the contest.

Ashton continued to battle, creating further chances and refusing to wilt, but champions-elect Nelson demonstrated the ruthless edge that defines title-winning sides. Where Ashton were denied, Nelson were clinical—punishing lapses and converting their opportunities with precision to ultimately run out 5–0 winners.

Despite the scoreline, there were significant positives. Joe Beswick marked his return from injury with an assured and often outstanding performance in goal, while Sam Oko was the game’s standout performer, dictating play with intelligence and quality throughout.

Frustration at key decisions lingered at full-time, yet it should not overshadow Ashton’s endeavour or Nelson’s achievement in securing the title. For Ashton, attention now turns to regrouping over the summer, with performances like this offering real encouragement for the season ahead.

Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Jake Greene
3 Jonathan Sodhi
4 Max Leeson
5 Joseph Barlow
6 Calum Wilson
7 Zach Conway
8 Samuel Oko
9 Marcus Cusani
10 Samuel Gill
11 Joshua Nicholson

Substitutes: William Adams, Oscar Rothwell, Joe White, Jason Foulds

All Photographs and Media by Nic Cain