FA Vase exit for Brave Ashton

Saturday 17^th November 2007 - Carlsberg FA Vase 2^nd round proper

Billingham Synthonia 2 Ashton Athletic 1

Last Saturday, Ashton Athletic were looking to continue with their cup exploits in their debut season in the esteemed FA Vase competition. However the trip to last year’s semi finalists, Billingham Synthonia of the Northern League proved to be a match too far as despite a spirited Ashton performance they failed to add to the scalps of Rossington Main, Congleton Town and Colne FC, taken in earlier rounds.

Goals in the last ten minutes from Close and Flanagan for Billingham outweighed an 87^th minute strike from Ashton’s Paul McVeigh to give the North East side passage to the next round.

Glancing header from Ashton’s McVeigh beats keeper Jackson

Meanwhile Ashton were left counting their misfortune as another effort from McVeigh, off a pin point cross from debutant Tim Lees also crashed against the bar in the dying minutes, and almost took the tie to extra time.

A great introduction to the competition for the Club but minds must quickly focus on the league as the Ashton Latics’ travel to Blackpool Mechanics for a crucial Vodkat League match. Three points will be essential to maintain the team’s promising start to the league campaign, with the side currently lying fourth and having only suffered one league defeat so far this season.

Furthermore on the evening of Monday 26^th November Ashton will be back in cup action when they take on Euxton Villa in the Bolton Wanderers sponsored Goldline Trophy semi Final. The tie will kick off at 7.45pm at Victory Park, the home of Chorley FC, and the winners will advance to a prestigious cup final date in the New Year against Charnock Richard FC at the Reebok Stadium.

Additional photos available for Download on the following link:-

http://flickr.com/photos/mark_fletcher/sets/72157603228135589/