We always knew this would be a tough contest against AFC Blackpool, with both teams sitting close to each other in the table and eyeing those coveted play-off spots. The tension was high, and the tempo of the game reflected the stakes, with both sides battling to establish dominance. Scrappy periods of play were inevitable as the teams fought for control.

AFC Blackpool had a chance to take an early lead, but Ashton goalkeeper Joe Beswick stood firm, pulling off a crucial save—a recurring theme throughout the match. It was Ashton Athletic who broke the deadlock just four minutes in. Captain Josh Nicholson stepped up and coolly converted from the penalty spot, sending the keeper the wrong way.

The Yellows looked to be in control when Jamie Nicholson, making his first start and playing alongside his older brother, added a second goal in the 29th minute. But just as Ashton seemed set to take a 2-0 lead into halftime, AFC Blackpool hit back with a goal in the 45th minute. The home supporters groaned, but Jamie Nicholson had the final say before the break, netting his second goal in injury time to make it 3-1.

The second half saw AFC Blackpool come out fighting, piling pressure on Ashton’s defence. Once again, Beswick was outstanding in goal, commanding his area and making save after save. His efforts kept Blackpool at bay until the 82nd minute, when the visitors found the net to make it 3-2. The final 10 minutes were nail-biting, with both teams pushing for a decisive goal. Ashton had chances to kill the game but couldn’t convert, until another penalty in the dying moments allowed Josh Nicholson to seal the win, smashing the ball into the bottom corner.

Though not their most polished performance, Ashton bagged another three points, moving up to 6th place. Man of the Match Joe Beswick’s heroics were crucial in securing this hard-earned victory.

Starting XI
1 Joe Beswick
2 Nathan Whalley
3 Kingston David
4 Calum Wilson
5 Conal Larkin
6 Niall Partridge
7 Jamie Nicholson
8 Jack Smith
9 Deklan Hill
10 Joshua Nicholson
11 Nathan Beca

Substitutes
Daniel Hutchins, Emmanuel Ujahchuku, Ben Glendon, Joshua High

Media and Photographs by Nic Cain

The Matchday Programme can be viewed HERE

Attendance 53

Next Five Matches:
Date Opponent K.O.
04/10/24 Ashton Town (A) 19:45
07/10/24 Route One Rovers (A) 20:00
12/10/24 Skelmersdale United (H) 15:00
19/10/24 Maine Road (H) 15:00
25/10/24 Daisy Hill (A) 19:45

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Match Preview:

This Saturday, Brocstedes Park hosts an exciting North West Counties Division One North clash, as Ashton Athletic welcome AFC Blackpool for a crucial fixture. After last weekend’s disappointing 3-0 defeat away to Wombwell Town in the FA Vase, The Yellows will be eager to bounce back and continue their impressive league form, which has seen them notch up five wins in their last six outings.

Sitting 7th in the table, Ashton have been a force to be reckoned with, and they’ll be keen to put their cup disappointment behind them and push towards the playoff places. Their opponents, AFC Blackpool, have had mixed results lately with three wins, two losses, and a draw in their last six games. They head into this match following a 2-1 defeat away to Nelson and a heavy 3-0 loss at Maine Road. Currently 9th in the league, Blackpool are just three points behind Ashton, making this contest all the more significant as both sides battle to climb the table.

With only a few points separating these two, expect a hard-fought, thrilling match. We hope to see you down to Brocstedes Park to witness some exciting non-league football action this weekend!

History
AFC Blackpool was formed in 1947 under the name of Blackpool Metal Mechanics and played at Stanley Park for two years before moving to the current Jepson Way ground also known as The Mechanics Ground.

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.

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