Ashton Athletic kicked off their Bank Holiday weekend in style, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a spirited Stockport Georgians side in the FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round at Brocstedes Park.

The visitors, arriving early and looking youthful but determined, quickly dispelling any doubts about their ability. The old adage "if you're good enough, you're old enough" rang true as the young Georgians side showed their mettle, taking the lead in the 31st minute. Their tenacity and strength across the pitch left many home fans wondering if Ashton would be trailing at the break.

However, under the seasoned guidance of manager Jay Foulds and his team, Ashton Athletic remained resilient. Their perseverance paid off right on the stroke of halftime. A well-delivered corner saw Cal Wilson flick the ball on, and centre-back Joe White was on hand to finish the move at the far post, sending the teams into the break level at 1-1.

The second half continued in the same fiercely competitive vein, with both teams battling for control. Ashton’s quality began to shine through, and it was the tireless Dek Hill who ultimately made the difference. His determined performance was rewarded in the 66th minute when he netted what would prove to be the match-winner, much to the delight of the home supporters.

Despite a valiant effort from the Georgians, who pressed for an equalizer until the final whistle, Ashton’s defensive resolve stood firm. In a match that could have swung either way, it was Ashton Athletic who emerged victorious, advancing to the next round of the FA Vase.

The Yellows now face a trip to South Yorkshire to take on Wombwell Town FC in the 2nd Qualifying Round on Saturday, September 21st. But first, they have the much-anticipated local derby against Ashton Town on Bank Holiday Monday, with a 3 pm kick-off—a match that promises to be another thrilling affair. Be there or be square...

Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Conal Larkin
3 Kingston David
4 Calum Wilson
5 Joe White
6 Zach Conway
7 Joshua High
8 Deklan Hill
9 Daniel Hutchins
10 Jack Smith
11 Joshua Nicholson

Substitutes: Emmanuel Ujahchuku, Nathan Beca, Charlie Brown, Niall Partridge, Jason Foulds.

Photograph by Nic Cain shows both goal scorers Joe White and Dek Hill celebrating the winner.

Next Six Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
26/08/24 Ashton Town (H) 15:00
31/08/24 Daisy Hill (H) 15:00
07/09/24 Steeton (H) 15:00
14/09/24 Nelson (A) 15:00
21/09/24 Wombwell Town (A) 15:00
28/09/24 AFC Blackpool (H) 15:00

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Football Weekend Preview at Brocstedes Park: Cup Action and Local Derby Showdowns

This Bank Holiday weekend promises an action-packed schedule at Brocstedes Park, with thrilling fixtures that are sure to excite all football fans.

**Saturday's FA Vase Clash: Ashton Athletic vs. Stockport Georgians**

The weekend kicks off with a tantalizing FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round match on Saturday at 3 pm, as Ashton Athletic face off against Stockport Georgians. The visitors, currently 16th in the North West Counties First Division South, come into this fixture buoyed by back-to-back wins over Alsager Town and Abbey Hulton United. They’ll be eager to carry this momentum into the cup, where anything can happen.

Ashton Athletic, despite a midweek setback against a strong Droylsden side, have been in solid form recently and will be keen to bounce back. The Yellows know that cup matches bring their own unique challenges, where form can be deceptive and surprises are never far away. To secure progression to the next round, Ashton will need to be at their sharpest, taking nothing for granted against a Stockport side with everything to gain.
View the Matchday Programme HERE

**Sunday's Women's Football: Wigan Athletic Ladies vs. Chester FC Women**

On Sunday, the focus shifts to the North West Women's Regional League: Division One South, where Wigan Athletic Ladies and Girls take on Chester at 2 pm. Fresh off a dominant 5-0 victory over FC St Helens Women, the Latics Women are in high spirits and playing with confidence. Chester, however, will pose a stern test, having finished as runners-up last season and already accumulating four points from their opening two games. Expect a competitive match full of attacking football from both sides.

**Bank Holiday Monday Derby: Ashton Athletic vs. Ashton Town**

The weekend culminates on Bank Holiday Monday with the local derby that everyone has been waiting for—Ashton Athletic versus Ashton Town at 3 pm. Local pride is on the line as these two rivals meet once again. The form book might be mixed for both teams so far this season, but when it comes to derbies, all previous results count for little. Fans can expect a fiery encounter, with plenty of passion and no shortage of drama as both sides vie for bragging rights in what promises to be a memorable clash.

**Join Us for a Thrilling Weekend of Football!**

With so much on offer, there’s something for everyone at Brocstedes Park this weekend. Whether it’s cup excitement, women’s football, or the high-stakes local derby, make sure you’re there to support the teams. Come on You Yellows!

Admission prices are set at £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.
The entrance fee for Wigan Athletic Ladies and Girls on Sunday 25th of August is £3 for Adults and free for U16s.

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