It may have been a glorious spring afternoon at Brocstedes Park, with the sun shining and the Grand National captivating the nation, but Ashton Athletic were unfortunately not at the races in a disappointing 4–1 defeat to already-relegated Route One Rovers.

With several key players unavailable due to suspensions and other absences, The Yellows faced an uphill battle before a ball was even kicked—and things would only get harder from there.

A Brutal Turning Point Early On
The match burst into controversy just 16 minutes in. Centre-back Calum Wilson was adjudged to have brought down a Rovers forward in the box, and with the opposition surrounding the referee and appealing passionately, Wilson was shown a straight red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.

To make matters worse, the resulting penalty was confidently converted to give the visitors an early 1–0 lead—and Ashton were suddenly a goal down and reduced to ten men.

A Moment of Magic
But just 60 seconds later, came a moment of sheer brilliance. Full back Zach Conway brought everyone to their feet with a thunderous strike from distance that clattered in off the post. A goal of the highest quality, and a lifeline for The Yellows.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Ashton dug deep, and the teams went into the half-time break even at 1–1, with everything still to play for.

Second-Half Struggles
However, early in the second half, Route One Rovers began to assert themselves against the tiring 10 men of Ashton. The visitors played with a sense of freedom and urgency, and Umar Ali Zahoor took centre stage, completing his half hat-trick in the 65th minute, after punishing gaps in the home side's defence.

In the end, Ashton struggled to build any sustained momentum, and the scoreline reflected what was arguably one of their most difficult afternoons of the season.

A Bright Spark
Despite the result, Zach Conway was a clear standout for Ashton Athletic—not just for his stunning goal, but for his relentless energy and commitment in defence and attack.

One More to Go
The season draws to a close next weekend as Euxton Villa make the trip to Brocstedes Park for the final game of the campaign. Ashton will be hoping to end on a high note and thank their loyal supporters with a spirited performance.

Final Score: Ashton Athletic 1–4 Route One Rovers
Player of the Match: Zach Conway
Next up: Ashton Athletic vs Euxton Villa – Saturday 13th April, 3:00 PM at Brocstedes Park

Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Zach Conway
3 Conal Larkin
4 Calum Wilson
5 Harry Stephens
6 Luke Crompton
7 Joshua Nicholson
8 Niall Partridge
9 Emmanuel Ujahchuku
10 Oscar Rothwell
11 Jack Smith

Substitutes:
Zakaria Ouaal, Joe White

Attendance 66

All Photographs and Media by Nic Cain

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MATCH PREVIEW: NORTH WEST COUNTIES DIVISION ONE NORTH
Saturday, 5th April 2024
Brocstedes Park
Kick-off: 3:00 PM

Today's Matchday Programme can be viewed HERE

Ashton Athletic return to home turf this Saturday looking to bounce back from their midweek defeat at Darwen and finish the season on a high as they welcome Route One Rovers to Brocstedes Park for their penultimate fixture of the 2024/25 campaign.

While the visitors have already been mathematically relegated from the North West Counties Division One North, they’ll arrive with nothing to lose—and plenty to prove. Let’s not forget, back in October, Route One produced an impressive performance at home, beating The Yellows 3-0 in a result that still stings. That afternoon showed they are more than capable of playing exciting, expansive football when given the chance.

This time, however, the script flips. Ashton will be determined to set the record straight and send their supporters home smiling with a strong performance in front of the Brocstedes faithful.

Home Advantage – and Home Pride
With Route One Rovers more accustomed to the slick surface of a 4G pitch, it will be interesting to see how they adapt to the late-season grass conditions at Brocstedes Park—something that could play into Ashton’s hands.

Ashton will be eager to stamp their authority early and make the most of the home advantage. With a season of growth, challenges, and character-building behind them, Jay Foulds’ squad will be keen to reward their supporters with a display of pride and passion as the finish line approaches.

Matchday Information
The forecast is sunny and dry, setting the stage perfectly for a wonderful afternoon of non-league football. Why not arrive early and soak up the matchday atmosphere? The bar and kitchen will be open from 1:30 PM, serving up refreshments, hot food, and good vibes before kick-off.

Whether you're a lifelong supporter or a first-time visitor, there's no better way to spend a spring Saturday than cheering on The Yellows at Brocstedes Park.

Admission
Adults: £6
Concessions: £4
Under 16's £1
Juniors: Free

COME ON YOU YELLOWS!
Join us for a proper football experience. See you at the Park.

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

Admission prices are set at £6 for adults, £4 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 £4 concession price.

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