Match Report: North West Counties Division One North – Saturday, October 19th, 2024
Ashton Athletic’s eight-match winning league run came to a disappointing end at Brocstedes Park as they suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to a resilient Maine Road side. Despite dominating large portions of the game, the Yellows were unable to capitalise on their early lead, with costly missed opportunities and a determined opposition proving to be their undoing.
Ashton Athletic started the game brightly and stamped their authority on the match from the opening whistle. Their early dominance was rewarded in the 18th minute when captain Josh Nicholson calmly slotted home a penalty. Nicholson's cool finish into the bottom corner gave the hosts a deserved 1-0 lead and further emboldened their attacking play.
The Yellows continued to pile on the pressure, controlling the tempo and pinning Maine Road back into their half. However, for all their possession and numerous chances, Ashton failed to extend their lead. A string of missed opportunities kept the visitors in the game, and football’s cruel nature soon revealed itself just before half-time. In the 44th minute, against the run of play, Maine Road managed to find an equaliser sending the teams into the break level at 1-1.
The second half was a more balanced affair, with Maine Road growing in confidence after their late first-half goal. Both teams created chances, but the game remained finely poised. Ashton pushed forward, eager to reclaim their advantage, but their efforts were met with solid defending from the visitors.
In the 64th minute, disaster struck for Ashton. A free-kick in a dangerous area was cleared with ease by Maine Road, who immediately launched a devastating counterattack. The ball was worked forward with pace, and Kirongozi found himself in space, calmly slotting the ball into the goal to give the visitors a 2-1 lead.
Despite substitutions and continued efforts from Ashton to break down the Maine Road defence, the Yellows were unable to find an equaliser. Maine Road’s defensive resilience and clinical finishing on the break proved to be the difference. The final whistle signalled the end of Ashton’s winning streak, leaving a palpable sense of frustration around Brocstedes Park.
Ashton Athletic will look to bounce back quickly as they prepare for a Friday evening clash against Daisy Hill on October 25th, with a 19:45 kick-off.
Man of the Match Nathan Beca
Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Conal Larkin
3 Nathan Whalley
4 Calum Wilson
5 Joe White
6 Zach Conway
7 Nathan Beca
8 Jack Smith
9 Deklan Hill
10 Joshua Nicholson
11 Jamie Nicholson
Substitutes: Ben Glendon, Niall Partridge, Kingston David, Reece Carrington, Jason Foulds
Attendance 90
Media and Photographs by Nic Cain
The Matchday Programme can be viewed HERE
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Next Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
25/10/24 Daisy Hill (A) 19:45
02/11/24 Garstang (A) 15:00
09/11/24 Steeton (A) 15:00
11/11/24 AFC Liverpool (A) 19:45
19/11/24 Atherton LR (A) 19:45
Match Preview: North West Counties Division One North - Saturday, October 19th, 2024, 15:00 Kick-off
This Saturday, Brocstedes Park plays host to a potentially pivotal clash in the North West Counties Division One North as Ashton Athletic take on Maine Road. While there's still a long way to go in the season, this fixture could prove crucial for both sides as they battle for a coveted playoff position.
Ashton Athletic come into the game in scintillating form, boasting eight consecutive league wins. Despite a solid 2-0 victory over Skelmersdale United last weekend, manager Jay Foulds will demand more from his squad after a slightly unconvincing performance against the league’s bottom side. Nonetheless, Ashton sit in 5th place and will be keen to extend their winning run and strengthen their hold on a playoff spot.
Maine Road, meanwhile, have been equally impressive in recent weeks. With notable victories over Euxton Villa (2-0), Bacup Borough (3-1), and Thornton Cleveleys (4-0), the team is currently 7th, only three points behind Ashton. They'll be eager to capitalise on any slip-ups from their hosts.
Expect an intense battle, with both teams gunning for three points in what promises to be a high-octane, all-action contest. Kick-off is set for 3 pm, and we look forward to seeing you there to support the lads in this exciting encounter.
Admission prices are £6 for adults, £3 for concessions, and £1 for under-16s.
Juniors accompanied by adults can enjoy the game for free, making it an affordable outing for families.
Additionally, Wigan Athletic and other season ticket holders are eligible for the £3 concession price.
Please note, it's cash only at the turnstile, while the bar and kitchen accept card and contactless payments.
Ground: Brocstedes Park
Address: Downall Green, Ashton in Makerfield
Postcode: WN4 0NR