Margy’s warning becomes reality

 Source: Manchester Evening News

 September 02, 2010

 FC United boss Karl Marginson warned his rampant Rebels against complacency after their first three wins on the spin had taken them top of the Evo-Stik League's Premier Division.

And Marginson's warning was not misplaced as the Rebels dropped to a 1-0 defeat at Ashton United on Bank Holiday Monday that knocked them off the top.

The Reds conceded the only goal of the game two minutes before the interval when striker Lee Steele chipped in from the edge of the box.

In a game of few chances the visitors were restricted to a a few speculative efforts as they battled for at least a share of the spoils.

But Ashton's defence, which has yet to concede a goal this season, refused to be breeched.

The Rebel Reds started the second half well with Jerome Wight clipping a volley over the bar after just a couple of minutes.

And an effort from Scott McManus also cleared the crossbar in the next attack.

A skilful run by Roca created space for him to cross for Wright to head down for Norton but his effort was parried by the resolute defence.

FC nearly levelled on the hour mark when Platt fired in a fierce drive but Ashton keeper Smith superbly flicked the ball over the bar.

The Rebels brought on recently re-signed Steve Torpey and his introduction almost worked the oracle when he crossed for McManus but his header was off target.

Ashton sub David Owens then almost extended the home side's lead but he was denied by Hibbert as he tried to take the ball around the keeper.

And that was the final threat as the home side collected the three points and replaced the Rebels at the top of the tree in the Evo-Stik League's Premier Division.

The loss drops FC United to third and they will be looking to bounce back to winning ways when they host Matlock Town on Sunday at Stalybridge Celtic’s Bower Fold.

Marginson’s men reached the summit by extending their winning start to three games with new boy Colin Little climbing off the subs' bench to score twice in the 5-1 Gigg Lane romp over Retford United.

Goals from Martin Parker, Carlos Roca, and Jake Cottrell had already put FC firmly in command before ex-Altrincham star Little’s stunning two-goal cameo – the second an inch-perfect 35-yard lob – set the seal on a rousing victory.

But, despite being pleased by the Rebels' win, Marginson, pictured, urged his players to keep their feet firmly on the ground.

The FC boss warned: "It's been a good start, but we’ve done nothing yet. The lads have got to keep their standards up throughout the season."