Ashton Athletic endured a frustrating afternoon in West Yorkshire, narrowly losing 1-0 to Steeton in a match where both teams seemed evenly matched throughout. Despite Ashton's diligent buildup play, a last-minute goal sealed their fate, making the long journey home even more disheartening.

From the outset, Ashton managed to control stretches of possession, efficiently moving the ball through midfield. However, translating that control into clear scoring opportunities remained elusive, with the final ball consistently slipping away. Joe White delivered a standout performance, showcasing his reliability in both defence and distribution, solidifying his reputation as one of the team’s steadiest contributors. Alongside him, Calum Wilson played a solid, disciplined game, further validating manager Jay Foulds’ praise for the duo’s partnership and consistency.

Nathan Beca and Jamie Nicholson worked tirelessly to drive the attack forward, but their efforts often fell short in the final third, where Steeton’s defence quickly regained possession. Dek Hill, usually a central figure up front, found himself largely sidelined as Ashton struggled to capitalize on their possession near the goal.

In the second half, Jack Smith replaced Zach Conway following an unfortunate injury at the 52-minute mark and injected energy and creativity. Niall Partridge's arrival at 70 minutes also provided a lift, with effective passing and a few promising link-ups that threatened to break the deadlock. Despite their contributions, however, Ashton lacked the cutting edge needed to break through.

Steeton, while not overwhelming, created a few speculative chances that kept Ashton’s defence on alert. Conal Larkin and Nathan Whalley were sturdy at the back, helping to launch forward plays, but the sense of real danger near goal was lacking. As time wound down, Steeton’s persistence paid off with a last-gasp goal, a crushing blow for Ashton, who had hoped to secure at least a point from the hard-fought encounter.

Reflecting on the game, fans and players alike shared the frustration of another outing without a decisive finish, highlighting a recurring issue that has shadowed Ashton’s recent fixtures. With the team's attacking struggles apparent, they’ll be looking for answers in the coming weeks as they aim to reignite their charge up the table.

Player of the match was Nathan Beca but a mention must go to Joe White, Calum Wilson, and Jack Smith for their efforts, with a particularly deserved nod to White for his defensive excellence.

Match Report by Nic Cain and Chris Picton.

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

Substitutes: Niall Partridge, Jack Smith, Kingston David, Emmanuel Ujahchuku, Jason Foulds.
Attendance 85

Media and Photographs by Nic Cain

Next Five Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
11/11/24 AFC Liverpool (A) 19:45
19/11/24 Atherton LR (A) 19:45
30/11/24 Maghull (A) 15:00
07/12/24 Holker Old Boys (H) 15:00
14/12/24 Thornton Cleveleys (H) 15:00

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Match Preview: North West Counties Division One North - Remembrance Weekend.

Ashton Athletic hit the road once again this Saturday, heading east to face Steeton in what promises to be a thrilling clash in the North West Counties Division One North. It’s the latest in a series of demanding away fixtures for The Yellows, who will be eager to reclaim their winning momentum after a challenging run of results, including two draws and a recent loss. Currently positioned 6th in the league with 33 points, Ashton sit just shy of the playoff places and are determined to strengthen their campaign with a valuable three points.

Steeton, however, won’t make it easy. Sitting in 15th with 15 points, the hosts have shown signs of resurgence, claiming significant October victories over Euxton Villa and Squires Gate. Manager Jay Foulds and his Ashton squad are all too aware of Steeton’s potential; their last meeting was a nail-biter, ending in a narrow 2-1 victory for Ashton thanks to a brace from Dek Hill. An 87th-minute strike from Steeton made for a tense finish, and Foulds will look for a more commanding performance this time around.

Ashton supporters will be hoping to see the team convert their chances with clinical precision, avoiding the missed opportunities that have marred recent matches. With confidence high in the squad and a strong fan turnout anticipated, it’s set to be an unmissable afternoon of football in West Yorkshire.
Please note Steeton are offering FREE entry to all current and former servicemen and servicewomen to the game. A wonderful gesture from the club.

Ground: Marley Stadium
Address: Aireworth Road, Keighley, West Yorkshire
Postcode: BD21 4DB