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Ashton Utd 2 - 1 Matlock Town

2/ 4/2008

ASHTON registered a vital three points by coming from behind against Matlock Town at Hurst Cross on Monday night.

The victory saw them rise an incredible seven places in the table to 11th, showing how fierce the competition is this season in the UniBond League’s Premier Division.

Matlock took an early lead when Steve Taylor netted from Ruben Wiggins-Thomas’ right-wing cross. Much of the first-half play was concentrated in the midfield area with chances at a premium. Ben Deegan’s shot on the turn was held by Town keeper Andy Richmond, but it was the visitors who came closest to adding to their early advantage when Matthew Thorpe and Wiggins-Thomas both fired just wide.

Ashton were not helped when Liam McManus was stretchered off with a broken nose and concussion, although Matty O’Neill proved to be a worthy replacement.

Matthew Flynn fired over and Richmond thwarted Deegan before the break, after which Ashton were an improved side with Dean Canning a threat down the right and a greater urgency in the team’s play.

Iain Howard’s shot was deflected wide, Richmond denied Ian Bennett, while Deegan fired just too high before Ashton’s superiority was rewarded 20 minutes from time when Canning pounced on a loose ball to volley past Richmond.

Bennett curled an effort just past the upright and Howard’s shot was deflected just wide as the pressure mounted on the Matlock goal.

There was a scare when Wiggins-Thomas broke clear, only for Damien Rooney to touch his chip onto the bar, but Fitzpatrick sealed a vital victory by netting from close range.

Attendance: 184