FC United 2 Ashton United 1

 Source: MEN

 Bryan Marshall-

After Saturday’s convincing win over second-placed Colwyn Bay, United started this match confidently.

Steve Hall turned cleverly before striking a low shot that had Sam Ashton diving full length to push the ball around the post.

Two minutes later the visitors were in front, Liam Dawson scoring his third goal in two games with a well placed shot.

Fewer than ten minutes later the same player came within a whisker of doubling the lead as his free kick came back off the upright.

The momentum swung in favour of the home side once Mike Norton equalised in the 18th minute.

Ex-Robin James Holden, who had a fine match, played a superb through ball to Norton, who coolly chipped the ball over Terry Smith.

Seven minutes later Norton turned provider, pulling the ball back from wide on the right for Matthew Wolfenden to strike the ball into the top left-hand corner.

For the remainder of the first half Ashton were chasing shadows as the home side dominated possession, aided by some wayward passing.

Holden headed over and Nicky Platt’s overhead kick went just wide, while Ashton were restricted to the odd breakaway.

After the interval, Ashton enjoyed more possession and started to create the bulk of the chances.

Marlin Piana ran purposefully at the home defence, but seemed to run out of steam before he could unleash an effective shot on goal.

Dawson then latched onto a poor defensive header, but found the side netting.

Midfielder Hall hit another shot just wide and substitute Jonathon Bathurst headed over.

Despite the pressure Ashton couldn’t find a second goal as the home side were glad to hear the final whistle.

Attendance: 2,062