Ashton United navigated the Tameside derby well to earn a respectable 1-1 draw against Curzon Ashton on Tuesday night and keep their unbeaten pre-season run going.

The preparations for the start of a new season are always about the players regaining their fitness and match sharpness ahead of the big kick off with less emphasis on results. However, momentum is momentum and The Robins have picked up some commendable results in July that should provide some confidence going into the new season.

Hurst Cross welcome a fiery local derby on Tuesday as Ashton met back up with National League North neighbours Curzon and thanks to a Richard Smith header came away with a draw. The only downside to an otherwise successful outing was a broken arm sustained by goalkeeper Grant Shenton, involved in an innocuous challenge with a Curzon forward chasing down a forward pass.

Ashton have again provided a stern test against opposition from a higher division, having already put away National League side Southport 1-0 earlier in pre season.

Next up is a trip to Northwich as United take on Witton Albion at the 4,813 capacity Wincham Park stadium.

Witton compete in the Northern Premier League Division One South having finished respectably in 11th last season in NPL Division 1 North. The end of season club shuffle has left the Wittoners sourcing players from the south of their location and Saturday should be a test of their new squad.

The new season draws closer and the Gaffers are now looking to settle the squad in preparation for the opening day fixture at Frickley Athletic on 13th August.

Saturday's game kicks off at 3pm.