It was always going to be a tough ask for Ashton Athletic as the Yellows welcomed FC St Helens to Brocstedes Park in the FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round.

With a lengthy injury list already stretching the squad, Ashton went into the game with no fewer than 10 players missing. Despite that, the quality and depth within the squad this season is evident as the Yellows were ultimately undone by two set pieces against a side competing at a higher level.

Chances were at a premium throughout the afternoon, with neither side able to create many clear-cut opportunities. Ashton worked hard and matched their opponents for long periods, but unfortunately couldn't create enough in the final third to seriously trouble the FC St Helens goalkeeper.

The visitors took the lead in the 31st minute, converting from a corner to give themselves a narrow advantage at the break.

Ashton started the second half with renewed determination and looked capable of getting themselves back into the contest. However, just as the Yellows appeared to be building some momentum, FC St Helens struck again in the 57th minute, once more from a set piece, to double their lead.

The Yellows never stopped working and continued to battle until the final whistle, but were unable to find the quality needed in the final third to get back into the game.

It wasn't a classic, but there were plenty of positives to take from a difficult afternoon, particularly given the depleted squad and the fact that the visitors play at a higher level. The focus now turns back to league action, with Ashton travelling to Maghull on Tuesday evening, hopefully with a few more players available for selection.

A disappointing cup exit, but one to put behind us quickly, as the Yellows look to get back to winning ways.

Player of the match was Ashton's centre back Joe White, with excellent performances coming from keeper Joe Beswick and Jake Greene in defence.

Starting XI
Joe Beswick (C)
Joshua Brierley
Jake Greene
Joseph Barlow
Joe White
George Walker
Thomas Beswick
Luke Crompton
Ryan Knowles
Samuel Gill
Jonathan Sodhi

Substitutes: Adam Gilchrist, Zach Conway, Daniel Regan

Attendance 134

All Photographs and Media by Nic Cain

Next Match - 18/08/26 Maghull (A) 19:45
Ground: DT Hughes Community Stadium
Address: Old Hall Field, Tommy Gent Way, Hall Lane, Maghull, Liverpool
Postcode: L31 3DY.

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