Ashton Athletic faced a tough test at the Butchers Arms Park last night, going up against an in-form Droylsden side in a match that promised to be challenging from the outset. The 5-1 scoreline in favour of the home team might suggest a one-sided affair, but the reality was far more nuanced.

Droylsden struck first, converting a penalty in just the 7th minute. Ashton, however, responded with resilience. Captain Josh Nicholson stepped up and coolly slotted home a penalty of his own in the 15th minute to level the score. For the next 25 minutes, the match was evenly poised, with both sides battling hard for control. At 1-1, it seemed the teams were heading into the break on equal terms.

But football can be cruel, and in a devastating four-minute spell just before halftime, Droylsden rattled in three goals—two from corners and a swift breakaway finish—that left Ashton reeling. The half-time whistle blew with Ashton trailing 4-1, and it was a bitter blow in what was manager Jay Foulds' 500th game in charge, a milestone that deserved better.

The second half saw Ashton regroup and show their character, determined not to let the game run away from them. They held firm against a confident Droylsden side, conceding just one more goal in the 51st minute. Despite their best efforts, Ashton couldn’t claw their way back into the match, but they showed grit and determination to limit further damage.

In the end, it was a tough night for Ashton Athletic, who will take lessons from this encounter as they prepare for Saturday's FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round match against Stockport Georgians at Brocstedes Park.

Attendance 568
Starting XI
J1 Joe Beswick
2 Conal Larkin
3 Ethan Pearce
4 Calum Wilson
5 Joe White
6 Niall Partridge
7 Emmanuel Ujahchuku
8 Zach Conway
9 Joshua Nicholson
10 Jack Smith
11 Joshua High

Substitutes: Daniel Hutchins, Nathan Beca, Reece Carrington, Kingston David, Jason Foulds

Photograph by Nic Cain

Next 5 Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
24/08/24 Stockport Georgians (H) 15:00 - FA Vase
26/08/24 Ashton Town (H) 15:00
30/08/24 Daisy Hill (H) 19:45
07/09/24 Steeton (H) 15:00
14/09/24 Nelson (A) 15:00

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Match Preview

Ashton Athletic hit the road tonight, heading to East Manchester for a challenging encounter against a red-hot Droylsden side in the North West Counties Division One North. Droylsden, currently sitting comfortably in 3rd place, have been in scintillating form, winning their last four matches and netting an impressive 16 goals in the process. Their relentless attack and solid defence have made them one of the most formidable teams in the league.

However, Ashton Athletic, buoyed by their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Thornton-Cleveleys on the weekend, will arrive with confidence. That win propelled them up to 9th place in the standings, and they'll be eager to continue their climb. The Yellows have shown resilience and determination, qualities they’ll need in abundance to take on a Droylsden side brimming with confidence.

Adding to the significance of this match, tonight's fixture marks a milestone for Ashton Athletic's manager, Jay Foulds, who will be leading the team for the 500th time. This achievement highlights his unwavering dedication and the profound impact he’s had on the club over the years.

With both teams hungry for points and a lively crowd expected at the Butchers Arms, fans can anticipate a thrilling contest under the lights. Kick-off is at 19:45. Don’t miss it!

Ground: The Butchers Arms
Address: Market Street, Manchester
Postcode: M43 7AY
Telephone: 07973855473