Report: Colls 2-0 Ashton United

Atherton Collieries bounced back from a shock midweek result against Marine with a resounding display against title challenging Ashton United. The hosts started the better of the two teams, with captain Danny Lafferty heading narrowly over in the opening moments, whilst Scott Bakkor was narrowly intercepted following a quick counter attack to prevent a goal fifteen minutes later. Ashton provided regular physicality from set-pieces throughout, though the Colls defence remained alert to limit any potential opportunities from arising, recording only one shot against their goal throughout the match. The Stripes were eventually good value to take the lead. The counter attacking threat of Scott Bakkor has become a highlight of recent performances, and it was indeed the combination of Bakkor and Aaron Smith who combined with an intense press to open the scoring, Bakkor setting up for Smith to fire the ball past Greg Hartley for the opening goal. Whilst the Colls built momentum throughout the first half, Ashton spent the second half in the ascendancy as they chased an equalising goal. Blocks from Danny Lafferty and Nico Defreitas-Hansen were vital for the Collieries to retain their lead, as the game was slowly reduced to a frustrating sequence of set pieces for both sides. The game was settled in the final minute. A clear foul from former Colls player Ben Hardcastle on Ollie Brown in the penalty box was awarded, and captain Danny Lafferty stepped up to convert to secure an important win for the Collieries. Man of the Match: Arran Pettifer, selected by Match Sponsors BB Construction Colls:Nico Defreitas-Hansen, Clive Smith, Gaz Peet, Joel Amado, Danny Lafferty ©, Luca Defreitas-Hansen, Arran Pettifer, Oli Brown, Scott Bakkor, Aaron Smith, Marcus Cusani Subs: J. Fitzmartin, J. Lenehan, E. Kershaw, A. Rooney, J. Ebosele