Ashton Athletic’s red-hot form finally came to an end last night as they fell 3-0 to Route One Rovers in the 1st Round of the Edward Case Cup. After seven straight league victories, including a commanding 3-0 win over local rivals Ashton Town just three days prior, this West Yorkshire trip proved a step too far for the young Athletic side.

The Monday evening journey was always going to be a tough ask, and Route One Rovers took advantage early on. Despite a slow start, Ashton grew into the game, but it was the hosts who struck first, taking the lead in the 27th minute. Athletic responded well, creating chances, but the score remained 1-0 at halftime.

The second half was a similarly tight affair until Route One capitalised on a quick free-kick in the 63rd minute, with No.10 Wassa finishing clinically to double their advantage.

The Yellows battled on with 2 or 3 great chances, and after seeing a goal controversially ruled out for offside, they continued to push forward. However, as they committed more players into attack, they were caught on the counter. A one-on-one with the keeper resulted in a last-minute penalty, which was coolly converted and sealed Ashton’s fate.

Despite the result, there were positives for Athletic to take into Saturday’s league fixture as we face Skelmersdale United in the league. Kick Off is 3pm on Saturday 12th at Brocstedes Park.

Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Nathan Whalley
3 Kingston David
4 Ethan Pearce
5 Conal Larkin
6 Niall Partridge
7 Ben Glendon
8 Zach Conway
9 Daniel Hutchins
10 Emmanuel Ujahchuku
11 Nathan Beca

Substitutes: Jack Smith, Calum Wilson, Joshua High, Reece Carrington, Jason Foulds

Attendance 32

Media and Photographs by Nic Cain

Next Five Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
12/10/24 Skelmersdale United (H) 15:00
19/10/24 Maine Road (H) 15:00
25/10/24 Daisy Hill (A) 19:45
02/11/24 Garstang (A) 15:00
09/11/24 Steeton (A) 15:00

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Ashton Athletic hit the road this Monday for a clash in the 1st Round of the Edward Case Cup against Route One Rovers. The match, kicking off at 8:00 pm, will be held at the Rovers' home ground in Keighley, West Yorkshire.
Route One Rovers come into this fixture struggling for form, with only one win in their last six outings. However, they remain a dangerous side capable of surprises, as seen in the close encounters between these two teams last season. Rovers are coming off a 3-0 defeat to 2nd in the league Atherton LR and will be eager to turn their fortunes around in cup competition.
Ashton Athletic, on the other hand, are flying high. They boast seven consecutive league wins, including a commanding 3-0 derby victory over Ashton Town on Friday night. While their league form is impeccable, cup matches often tell a different story, where surprises abound and momentum can quickly shift.
This promises to be an intriguing contest, as both sides eye a cup run to complement their league ambitions. Fans will recall last season’s thriller at Brocstedes Park, where Ashton Athletic edged out a 3-2 victory, setting the stage for another intense battle.
We hope to see you there for what should be an entertaining match!

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

History
Route One Rovers FC was established in 2013 by Chairman Sameel Mahmood. The club started competing in the Spen Valley League followed by promotion up to the West Riding County Amateur Football League. Fast forward a few years, Route One Rovers were placed in the Yorkshire Amateur League Supreme Division and after winning a League Cup and District double in 21/22, the vision was very much promotion to the Counties League. After a successful double winning 22/23 season, winning the Yorkshire Amateur League Title in a invincible run and the Keighley District Cup, Route One Rovers FC gained promotion to the North West Counties League.