Form counted for nothing as Ashton Athletic ripped up the script to claim derby bragging rights with a superb 3–1 victory over league-leading Ashton Town at the Barton Stadium.

Separated by only a few miles but a gulf in league position, this much-anticipated local clash looked on paper like a routine afternoon for Town. Instead, it became a powerful reminder that derbies obey no logic, only intensity, belief and execution — all of which Athletic had in abundance.

Town began with a clear game plan, electing to play downhill in the first half and pepper the Athletic defence with direct balls. The pressure told early, as the hosts forced an opening in the 10th minute to take the lead. It was exactly the start Town wanted — but it was also where Athletic showed their character.

Rather than retreat, the Yellows grew into the game, playing composed, possession-based football and refusing to be bullied out of the contest. The back line stood firm, the midfield worked relentlessly, and going forward Ben Crane led the line superbly, supported by the dangerous dribbling of Joel Street.

Just as it looked like Town would carry their advantage into the break, Athletic struck a crucial blow. Sustained pressure from Crane and Alek Calaku forced a defensive mix-up on the left, a loose back-pass fell kindly for captain Josh Nicholson, and he showed real composure to tuck the ball home from close range. At 1–1, momentum had firmly swung.
The second half belonged almost entirely to Ashton Athletic. This was familiar territory — dominant performances that hadn’t always been rewarded — but there was a noticeable steel and determination about this side. Town were hunted down, pressed high, and rarely allowed to settle or progress up the pitch.

The breakthrough came on 70 minutes. A crunching challenge just outside the box saw the ball spill invitingly to Nicholson, who struck a first-time effort into the bottom corner, leaving the Town keeper stranded. It was fully deserved.

Even then, at 2–1, there was still work to do. Athletic sensed the danger and went in search of a killer third — and found it in style. Nathan Beca delivered a beautifully weighted cross to the far post, where Jonathon Sodhi arrived to finish clinically in the 86th minute, sparking scenes of celebration among the travelling support.

At full time, the Yellows were deserved winners — not just for the scoreline, but for a performance full of discipline, energy and quality.

Standout displays came right across the pitch. The defence was immense, with Calum Wilson and Max Gleeson dominant at centre-back. Jake Greene was outstanding at right-back, while Alek Calaku impressed on the opposite flank. The midfield controlled the game, and the forward line was a constant threat.

In the end, three players were rightly named joint Players of the Match: Josh Nicholson, Calum Wilson and Jake Greene — though in truth, every player deserved praise.

A brilliant derby victory and a huge boost at the bottom end of the table. Attention now turns to another tough test next week at Brocstedes Park against Holker Old Boys, where Athletic will look to build on this momentum.

Come on you Yellows.

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

Substitutes: Nathan Beca, Jonathan Sodhi, Harry Woosey, Harry McGowan,Joseph Barlow

Attendance 353

All Photographs and Media by Nic Cain

Next Six Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
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
31/01/26 Garstang (A) 15:00