Ashton Athletic secured a vital 2-1 victory on the road yesterday, boosting their league position with a hard-fought win over Thornton-Cleveleys. The match saw The Yellows display resilience and determination, with new signing Josh High emerging as the hero by netting a dramatic late winner.

Thornton-Cleveleys started the brighter of the two sides, putting Ashton under considerable pressure in the early stages. However, the Yellows' backline, marshalled by the newly-formed centre-back pairing of Calum Wilson and Dean Curtis, stood firm. Full-backs Conal Larkin and Ethan Pearce also played crucial roles in keeping the lively home side at bay.

Despite the early pressure, it was Ashton who drew first blood in the 26th minute. The ever-dangerous winger cut through Thornton's defence, and after a clever flick-on from Josh Nicholson, Josh High pounced, smashing the ball into the net to give the visitors the lead.

Ashton began the second half with attacking intent but were quickly pegged back when Thornton equalized in the 52nd minute, capitalizing on a swift counterattack. The match remained on a knife edge, with both teams creating chances to take the lead. Ashton thought they had restored their advantage when Dek Hill found the net, only for it to be ruled out for offside. Moments later, Thornton were awarded a penalty after a contentious decision against Ashton's keeper Joe Beswick. Justice prevailed as the resulting spot-kick rattled the crossbar.

The decisive moment came in the 87th minute. Josh High, on his debut, struck again to seal all three points for Ashton Athletic and earn himself the Man of the Match award. It was a well-deserved victory for the visitors, who will now look to build on this momentum in the coming fixtures.

Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Conal Larkin
3 Ethan Pearce
4 Calum Wilson
5 Dean Curtis
6 Niall Partridge
7 Emmanuel Ujahchuku
8 Zach Conway
9 Joshua Nicholson
10 Jack Smith
11 Joshua High

Substitutes
Deklan Hill, Daniel Hutchins, Joe White, Reece Carrington, Nathan Beca
Attendance 168

Photograph by Nic Cain

Next 5 Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
20/08/24 Droylsden (A) 19:45
24/08/24 Stockport Georgians (H) 15:00
26/08/24 Ashton Town (H) 15:00
30/08/24 Daisy Hill (H) 19:45
07/09/24 Steeton (H) 15:00

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Match Preview.

This Saturday, Ashton Athletic hit the road once again, heading to the Fylde coast for a crucial clash against Thornton Cleveleys in the North West Counties Division One North. The Yellows are looking to bounce back after a tough midweek defeat, and they'll need every ounce of grit and determination as they face a determined Thornton side.

Thornton Cleveleys, newcomers to the North West Counties League, have quickly shown they belong, sitting 11th in the table with three wins and three losses. Their impressive facilities make for a welcoming venue, and their fans will be hoping to see their side continue their solid start to the season. However, Ashton Athletic, currently in 13th place, are just two points behind and hungry to leapfrog their hosts with a win.

Ashton manager Jay Foulds didn't mince words after Tuesday night's disappointing performance against Darwen FC, particularly in the first half, and he’ll be expecting a strong response from his players. We can expect to see some changes in the lineup as Foulds searches for the right formula to secure a vital three points on the road.

For the loyal travelling supporters, your unwavering support is always appreciated, and we hope to reward you with a performance that makes the trip worthwhile. Kick-off is set for 3 pm—let's make it a day to remember!

Ground: Gamble Road
Address: Gamble Road, Thornton Cleveleys, Lancashire
Postcode: FY5 4JH