Lee Isn't Downbeat!

“I'm sure I will get plenty more opportunities from now till the end of the season!” Lee Rick, AUFC Midfield Maestro.

The scene was set, the snow was cleared from the field and Lee Rick was set to start his first game for the Robins since the 3rd January and was out to impress his managers to re-cement his place in the side.

However, the central midfielder was substituted off after half-an-hour with a suspected broken nose and his game was over! After the match, the 25 year-old reflected on his side’s victory and praised the instant impact substitutes Kevin Leadbetter had on the game;

“It was frustrating to get my first start in four games and then for it to get cut short due to injury. However, we got the result and three points which was the main thing.”

“I've played a part in every game since rejoining from Droylsden...” Rick went on to say;

“I'm sure I will get plenty more opportunities from now till the end of the season to contribute to the team.”

Leadbetter was Rick’s replacement on the half hour mark and it was the former Skelmersdale United man who changed the game and won the side’s first penalty of the season, six minutes after coming on.

Rick once again praised the side’s acquisitions and believes now more than ever the side has real strength and depth in all areas of the pitch;

“The squad is the strongest it has been for a while. Sam Wilson has been a great signing and has been consistently solid at the back. Kev Leadbetter has the experience we need to get out of this league. I think he is the only player who has won promotion at this level in our squad. That experience is vital! Steven Yarwood is a great addition because he is something different.”

Adding; “He could take the ball passed a defender in a phone box his feet are that good, he is just waiting for an opportunity but his attitude has been first class since joining.”

Ashton United face one of the toughest away games of 2015, if not the season, as they face 2nd placed Ilkeston FC this weekend. Rick is staying level headed and is planning on taking one game at a time starting with Saturday’s trip to the New Manor Ground;

“We know we are in a fantastic position and we have a strong squad. It's important we keep approaching it one game at a time and remain focused, starting with Ilkeston away on Saturday.”