Robins Wired Up

Report by David Robinson.

Ashton lost their first friendly of the season as First Division side Warrington took the spoils at Hurst Cross. The visitors almost registered immediately as a mistake by Greg Pearson let in former Robin Scott Metcalfe who was denied by a fine save from Phillips.

At the other end a clearance fell to Richard Bennett who put his left foot effort too high before Haslam also floated a free kick over the top, Kayde Coppin was then denied at the near post for the second time from a fierce effort but with the interval approaching a harmless cross saw Pearson pull down Warton with Metcalfe confidently converting from the spot, and there was still time for Warton to head Metcalfe’s cross past the far post.

Ashton were almost level immediately after the restart as Coppin was put clear by Bennett and saw his cross produce a sidefooted effort from Chadwick which was clawed away by Wills. Within a couple of minutes substitute Pilkington had entered the action setting Chadwick free for a superb right wing cross which was headed home by another substitute Robinson. Pilkington could have made another telling contribution as he appeared to be pulled back inside the area but the referee waved play on and Ashton were made to pay as a corner for the visitors from Mannix was headed home by Hardwick off the post despite Phillips’ best efforts.

Robinson’s pass then saw Pilkington flick the ball over a defender before volleying wide, and a good move saw Baguley’s low effort pushed away, and a fine cross from Haslam was fingertipped to safety.

Team: Phillips, Coo, Haslam, Gorton, Pearson, Shaw, Hall, Gee, Coppin, Bennett & Chadwick.
Subs: Baguley, Pilkington, Hill, Robinson, Pratt & Rouse.