Ashton Athletic produced one of their most complete away performances of the season, sweeping aside Bacup Borough 4–2 in a commanding display in the North West Counties Division One North.

From the first whistle, Ashton imposed themselves with authority, playing on the front foot and moving the ball with purpose. Early chances set the tone as Josh Nicholson, Luke Crompton, and Max Leeson all went close, forcing Bacup onto the back foot. The visitors’ high press and intensity made it difficult for Bacup to settle, and it felt like only a matter of time before the breakthrough arrived.

That moment came on 28 minutes, and it was worth the wait. Marcus Cusani surged forward with intent before unleashing a stunning strike into the top corner — a goal that perfectly reflected Ashton’s dominance. Cusani was outstanding throughout, dictating play and driving his side forward at every opportunity.

Just two minutes later, Ashton doubled their advantage. Luke Crompton reacted quickest after a defensive lapse, finishing confidently following good work involving Nicholson. At 2–0, Ashton looked firmly in control.

Bacup managed to pull one back just before the interval, offering a brief lifeline, but Ashton responded in emphatic fashion deep into first-half stoppage time. Cusani stepped up once again, this time curling a superb free kick beyond the helpless goalkeeper to restore the two-goal cushion at 3–1 heading into the break.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Ashton continuing to dictate proceedings. On 62 minutes, a flowing move effectively sealed the contest. Crompton’s incisive pass released Sam Oko, whose powerful run cut through the Bacup defence before squaring for Nicholson to apply a simple finish and make it 4–1.

There was concern shortly after as Alek Calaku was forced off following a heavy challenge, hopefully it's not too serious and he can return for the rest of the campaign. Ashton’s depth began to show as new signing Callum Preston settled quickly, while substitutes Will Adams and Jonny Sodhi injected fresh energy to help see out the game.

Bacup added a late consolation, but it did little to alter the narrative. Ashton remained in control, with goalkeeper Ewan Dodgson largely untroubled across the 90 minutes.

Defensively, Ashton were solid and organised, with Jake Greene, Joe Barlow, Calum Wilson, and Max Leeson providing a strong foundation. In midfield, the tireless work of Zach Conway and Oko ensured Ashton maintained control, while the forward line consistently stretched the hosts.

The standout performer, however, was Marcus Cusani. His two goals, combined with an all-action display, made him a clear choice for man of the match and underlined his influence on proceedings.

This was a performance full of intent, quality, and cohesion — a statement away win that reinforces Ashton Athletic’s credentials. With momentum firmly on their side, attention now turns to a challenging trip to Droylsden F.C. this weekend, where they will look to build on this impressive result.

Player of the Match - Marcus Cusani.

Starting XI
1 Ewan Dodgson
2 Jake Greene
3 Aleksander Calaku
4 Joseph Barlow
5 Calum Wilson
6 Max Leeson
7 Zach Conway
8 Samuel Oko
9 Marcus Cusani
10 Luke Crompton
11 Joshua Nicholson

Substitutes: Jonathan Sodhi, William Adams, Callum Preston, Samuel Gill, Jason Foulds

Attendance 112

You can Follow Us on our social media:
X/Twitter: @AshtonAthletic
Instagram: @ashtonathletic_fc
Facebook: Ashton Athletic FC

All Photographs and Media by Nic Cain.
Match Report - Nic Cain and Chris Picton

A big thanks must go to Colin Exley for all the excellent social media videos this season. Please check them on X, Facebook and Insta. There are some great goals from last night's action.
Also a thank you must go to justanothergroundhopper
@groundhopper80 for his video contributions of last nights game.

Remaining Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
21/03/26 Droylsden (A) 15:00
28/03/26 Fulwood Amateurs (H) 15:00
04/04/26 Daisy Hill (H) 15:00
06/04/26 Ashton Town (H) 15:00
11/04/26 Nelson (A) 15:00