Ashton Athletic fell short in their Boxing Day league clash against Atherton Laburnum Rovers, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat at Crilly Park. Despite a spirited second-half performance, an early flurry of goals from the home side proved too much for *The Yellows* to overturn.

The game got off to a disastrous start for Ashton, with Atherton striking in the opening minute and doubling their lead shortly thereafter. The hosts looked sharper and more threatening on the ball, pressing high and dominating possession. Ashton struggled to settle, finding it difficult to string passes together and create meaningful chances in the first half.

Standout Performances
Though the result was disappointing, there were positives to take. Conal Larkin delivered a standout performance, earning praise from fans and parents alike for his relentless energy and commitment. A contender for Player of the Match, Larkin’s efforts epitomized Ashton’s improved showing in the second half.

New signing Oscar Rothwell made an immediate impact, coming off the bench to head home from a corner late in the game. This gave Ashton a glimmer of hope, but Atherton quickly snuffed it out with a decisive third goal in the closing stages.

Niall Partridge, a defensive stalwart on the day, was another highlight, making countless tackles and working tirelessly to hold off Atherton’s attack. Emmanuel Ujahchuku was frequently involved, trying to drive Ashton forward, but the team ultimately lacked the control and cutting edge to turn the tide.

Challenges and Conditions
Ashton’s task was made even tougher by a depleted squad, with players sidelined through injury, and suspension. The return of Ethan Pearce was a welcome sight, making his comeback from injury as a second-half substitute.

Adding to the challenge, a thick fog descended on Crilly Park during the second half, making visibility increasingly difficult. Players and spectators alike struggled to follow the ball, adding an unusual twist to the game.

Final Thoughts
While Ashton’s second-half showing was stronger than their first, it wasn’t enough to match Atherton’s quality on the day. A more composed and controlled performance might have made the game a closer contest, but Atherton deserved their win.

Ashton will now regroup and focus on their league campaign, hoping to bounce back stronger with key players returning to the fold. The commitment shown in the second half should give fans hope for better results in the games to come.

Full-Time Score:
Atherton LR 3-1 Ashton Athletic
Goals: Oscar Rothwell (Ashton Athletic)
Player of the Match - Conal Larkin

Thank you to everyone who turned out in support, and let’s push forward together into the new year. *Up the Yellows!*

Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Nathan Whalley
3 Kingston David
4 Calum Wilson
5 Conal Larkin
6 Niall Partridge
7 Joshua High
9 Nathan Beca
10 Jack Smith
11 Emmanuel Ujahchuku

Substitutes: Ethan Pearce: Oscar Rothwell: Luke Crompton
Attendance 209

Match Report Nic Cain and Chris Picton
All Photographs and Media by Nic Cain

Next Five Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
28/12/24 Euxton Villa (A) 15:00
04/01/25 Garstang (H) 15:00
11/01/25 Bacup Borough (H) 15:00
14/01/25 Padiham (A) 19:45
18/01/25 Holker Old Boys (A) 15:00

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

Match Preview: North West Counties Division One North
Boxing Day, Thursday, December 26th – Crilly Park, 15:00 Kick-Off

Ashton Athletic return to Crilly Park this Thursday, exactly a month after their emphatic 6-0 victory over league leaders Atherton LR in the Lancashire Cup. That day, [i]The Yellows put on a dazzling display of attacking football, highlighted by Jack Smith’s hat-trick and goals from Dek Hill, Emmanuel Ujahchuku, and Nathan Beca. Fans will be hoping for a repeat performance to start the festive season on a high.

However, this Boxing Day clash promises to be a tougher challenge, with Atherton LR determined to prove why they sit top of the North West Counties Division One North table. Despite their dominant position, with 48 points from 20 games, recent stumbles—including losses to Ashton and Darwen, as well as a draw with Ashton Town—have left their title ambitions looking less secure.

For Ashton Athletic, currently 9th in the standings with 33 points from 20 games, a return to form is vital to rekindle their playoff hopes. The festive fixtures always bring surprises, and a positive result against the league leaders could provide the perfect Christmas gift for the fans and a much-needed boost for the squad.

The Stakes:
For Atherton LR: Consolidate their position at the top.
For Ashton Athletic: Rekindle playoff aspirations and continue their strong record against the league leaders.

The Boxing Day atmosphere is bound to be electric, and Ashton’s supporters have been crucial all season. Your presence and passion could make all the difference as The Yellows aim to bring home a much-needed three points.

From everyone at Ashton Athletic, we wish our players, staff, and fans a wonderful Christmas! Let’s hope the team can deliver the perfect festive finale this Thursday. See you there!

**Merry Christmas and Up the Yellows!**

Ground: Crilly Park
Address: Spa Road, Atherton, Greater Manchester
Postcode: M46 9XG
Telephone: 01942 878715[/i]