Ashton Athletic’s return to Brocstedes Park failed to yield the result they so desperately needed, as Thornton Cleveleys secured a 4-2 victory in a game that left The Yellows ruing missed opportunities and lapses in concentration. Despite showing flashes of promise, Ashton’s struggles continued, and the defeat compounds a difficult spell for Jay Foulds' side.

First Half: Promising Start Ends in Stalemate
Ashton began with energy and purpose, and their efforts were rewarded in the 21st minute. A well-delivered corner caused chaos in Thornton’s penalty area, resulting in an own goal to give Ashton a 1-0 lead. The visitors struggled to find their rhythm early on, and for a moment, it seemed The Yellows might seize control.

However, Thornton gradually grew into the game, and just before the half-time whistle, Jacob Aspinall found the equalizer with a composed finish, sending the sides into the break level at 1-1. The goal was a blow for Ashton, whose early momentum fizzled out as the half progressed.

Second Half: Drama Unfolds
The second half started in disappointing fashion for Ashton, with Thornton striking quickly in the 51st minute. Jacob Aspinall grabbed his second of the match, capitalizing to put the visitors ahead, 2-1.

Ashton refused to give in, and their perseverance paid off in the 70th minute. Manny Ujahchuku showed brilliant footwork down the flank before delivering a pinpoint cross to Dek Hill, who nodded the ball home. At 2-2, the game was finely poised, and Ashton looked the more likely to edge ahead.

Joe White came agonizingly close to restoring the lead, rattling the crossbar with a powerful header from a corner. Minutes later, Dek Hill struck the post, as Ashton came within inches of reclaiming the advantage.

Thornton’s Late Surge
Unfortunately for Ashton, football can be unforgiving. In the 81st minute, Archie Lang put Thornton back in front, 3-2. Ashton threw bodies forward in search of another equalizer, but as they pushed high, Thornton broke on the counter in stoppage time. A challenge in the box resulted in a penalty, and Lang stepped up to calmly slot home his second of the game in the 94th minute, sealing a 4-2 victory for the visitors.

Post-Match Thoughts
It was a disappointing afternoon for Ashton Athletic, who will feel they had the chances to win or at least draw the game. Defensive lapses and missed opportunities ultimately proved costly against a Thornton Cleveleys side fighting to avoid the drop.

The Yellows will need to regroup quickly ahead of next weekend’s clash with Garstang, where they’ll aim to rediscover their form and restore some confidence to their campaign.
Player of the Match for Ashton: Joe White.

Final Score: Ashton Athletic 2–4 Thornton Cleveleys
Scorers:
Ashton Athletic: Own Goal (21), Dek Hill (70)
Thornton Cleveleys: Jacob Aspinall (42, 51), Archie Lang (81, 94p)
Attendance: 75

Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Nathan Whalley
3 Ethan Pearce
4 Joe White
5 Conal Larkin
6 Calum Wilson
7 Zach Conway
8 Benjamin Mullarkey
9 Deklan Hill
10 Nathan Beca
11 Joshua Nicholson

Substitutes: Emmanuel Ujahchuku, Niall Partridge, Luke Crompton, Joshua High, Joseph Mwaslle.
Attendance 75

All Photographs and Media by Nic Cain

Next Five Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
01/02/25 Garstang (H) 14:00
15/02/25 Nelson (H) 14:00
22/02/25 Holker Old Boys (H) 14:00
01/03/25 Maine Road (A) 15:00
08/03/25 Bacup Borough (H) 14:00

Match Preview: North West Counties Division One North | Saturday, January 25, 2024 | 2:00 PM Kick-Off | Brocstedes Park.

The Match Programme can be viewed HERE

*********************************************

Ashton Athletic finally return to Brocstedes Park this Saturday for a much-anticipated home fixture against Thornton Cleveleys, weather permitting. Storm Éowyn looms over the weekend's schedule, with the Met Office issuing an amber weather warning for strong winds, heavy rain, and even snow in some areas. However, the hope remains that the skies will clear in time for The Yellows to resume their campaign on home turf.

Form Guide
Both sides enter this clash looking to reverse recent struggles in the league. Thornton Cleveleys secured a morale-boosting 3-2 victory at Daisy Hill last Saturday, but with just two wins in their last six matches, they find themselves sitting 15th in the table with 25 points from 24 games. Although they hold a nine-point cushion above the relegation zone, the visitors will be eager to string together back-to-back wins and further distance themselves from danger.

Ashton Athletic, currently 10th in the league with 34 points from 23 matches, have endured a gruelling run of away fixtures since October, making it difficult to build momentum. With players now returning from injury, manager Jay Foulds will be hopeful of a turnaround in fortunes as the team looks to mount a late push for a playoff spot.

Form Guide
This encounter promises to be an intriguing battle between two sides hungry for points. Thornton Cleveleys will likely aim to frustrate their opponents and capitalize on set-piece opportunities, while Ashton will look to leverage their home advantage and rekindle their attacking flair in front of their supporters.

The Stakes
For Ashton, this is an opportunity to turn their recent misfortunes into a fresh start on home soil. A win could propel them closer to the playoff places, reigniting hopes for a strong finish to the season. Thornton Cleveleys, on the other hand, know that another three points would significantly ease any lingering relegation fears and boost their confidence heading into the business end of the campaign.

Match Details
Kick-Off:2:00 PM

With both teams desperate for points and a turbulent weather forecast adding an extra layer of unpredictability, Saturday’s game has all the ingredients for a closely contested affair. We encourage all fans to brave the elements and come down to Brocstedes Park to cheer on The Yellows in their quest for victory!

Come on, you Yellows!

Ground: Brocstedes Park
Address: Downall Green, Ashton in Makerfield
Postcode: WN4 0NR

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.

Please note, it's cash only at the turnstile, while the bar and kitchen accept card and contactless payments