Match Report and Pics - Season 2019-2020
Pre-Season Friendly:-
Blantyre Victoria 1 Ashfield 3 - Wed 17/7/2019 - 7pm
Ashfield`s next warm up game was a trip to the KG Stadium, previously Castle Park, to take on SuperLeague outfit Blantyre Vics and as Pre-Season Friendlies go this was a tremendous match which ebbed and flowed and saw both teams put on a very attack minded show with the home side catching the eye early on however were met by some clinical finishing by the Glasgow side in the 8th, 19th and 39th Minutes to go in 3-0 up at the interval despite some excellent play from the Vics side. The `field`s scorers were Graeme Hearton, robbing the Vics Centre back of the ball before rounding the Keeper to put the `field 1-0 up. Graeme then became provider crossing in for Callum Graham to drill home and to finish the scoring Callum Graham ran at the Vics full back before lashing the ball into the net five minutes before the interval.
HT:- BLANTYRE VICS 0 ASHFIELD 3
It was more `backs to the wall` in the second half for the`field and they can thank the woodwork, some excellent defending and goalkeeping from Ryan Dakhill to restrict the home side to a solitary effort from a corner in the 79th minute. The Referee was kept busy in this fiercely contested friendly however the `field played the perfect `away from home` performance against Superleague opponents inflicting the Vics first defeat in 11 games.
FT:- BLANTYRE VICS 1 ASHFIELD 3
Att:- 90
Ashfield`s Team:- Dakhill, Lynch, D Leverage, Amos, C Leverage, Crumlish, Cochrane, Giblin, Hearton, Graham and McManus. Subs:- Hepburn, McGladrigan, McQuilken and McMahon
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Sectional League Cup - Friday 26th July 2019:-
St Roch`s 2 Ashfield 1
The long awaited first competitive game of the season arrived on Friday night at a very busy James McGrory Stadium with over 400 in attendance to watch two good teams start their seasons. It had been a while since Ashfield last visited St Roch`s and we have to go back to April 2012 when Ashfield narrowly beat St Roch`s 2-1 in the West of Scotland Cup - Quarter Final, courtesy of goals from William Ferguson & Shaun Fraser. There was no players left from that encounter as the game started off at great pace with the `field pressing forward at every opportunity however after a good 10 minute opening period found themselves being hit on the break by a pacy St Roch`s outfit and Cammy Farquhar had to be alert on a couple of occasions. Callum Graham, Ashfield`s recent signing was looking menacing and on the 25 minute broke clear before cutting in however his shot hit the side netting to the relief of the home support. Next up was St Roch`s who were awarded a free-kick 20 yards out which was brilliantly taken however crashed off the bar and was cleared to safety. Not long after this and the home side were ahead, A mazy run from midfield saw Coogan, the St Roch`s No 7 break clear, and from 22 yards out drilled the ball low and hard past Cammy Farquhar to the roar of the home support. St Roch`s 1 Ashfield 0. Ashfield had a difficult 10 minute spell after that and struggled to cope with the home side and with 6 minutes to go until half time, the same player Coogan scored a spectacular second from 25 yards out which crashed in off the base of the post to put the `Candy` 2-0 up. St Roch`s 2 Ashfield 0. Ashfield regained their composure and had a number of corners and free-kicks before the Referee brought proceedings to a close.
HT:- ST ROCH`S 2 ASHFIELD 0
The second half started off at the same pace however it was the home side that looked the likelier in the opening exchanges, however after a 10 minute period where the `field had to defend well from some set-plays, the game began to change following a double substitution from the visitors. For the last half hour of the Match it was the visitors that began to get their passing going and were using the wings to good effect and this coupled with the Ashfield Captain Colin Leverage marshalling his troops well at the back. The Referee, who upset both teams with his display was keen on dishing out yellow cards and the St Roch`s McManus fell foul of a 2nd booking midway through the half and headed for an early bath. It was `backs to the wall` for the home side now however the `field had to wait until 6 minutes to go to get the breakthrough following a foul in the box. Callum Graham stepped up sending the Keeper the wrong way and it was game on. St Roch`s 2 Ashfield 1. That was the big striker`s 6th goal of the Season so far. As Ashfield continued to pour forward it was Paul McQuilken that was instrumental in finding any space and gaps in the Candy` rearguard. With 2 minutes to go a lovely move saw the ball played across the box by substitute McGladrigan and as Brian Hepburn drove the ball goalwards the St Roch`s defender threw himself in front of the ball to save a certain goal with the ball being deflected wide. The main talking point of the Match was the decision by the Referee in injury time not to award the visitors what looked like a certain penalty when Callum Graham got ahead of the St Roch`s Keeper for a cross and was brought down. Despite the Ashfield appeals the Referee played on and shortly after blew for time up.
It was a very good game for the start of the Season with both teams having spells on top. The home side on this performance will find that not many teams will come to the James McGrory Stadium and walk away with points and as for the `field this was certainly a `work in progress` performance and Paul Maxwell and his Staff look like they have strengthened in the right areas for the Season ahead.
FT:- ST ROCH`S 2 ASHFIELD 1
Attendance:- 420
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, W Gatiungt, D Leverage, J Crumlish, C Leveridge (Capt), R McMahon, P McQuilken, Graeme Hearton, Callum Graham, Alan Cairns and Brian Hepburn. Subs:- J Lynch, D MacKenzie, M McManus, M Giblin, L Cochrane, S McGladrigan
Sectional League Cup - Monday 29/07/2019
Ashfield 2 Petershill 4 and
Sectional League Cup - Wednesday 31/07/2019
Kirkintilloch Rob Roy 4 Ashfield 1
A disappointing and an uncharacteristic opening half hour for the `field saw our SuperLeague rivals take a 3-0 lead courtesy of some bad defending. Callum Graham managed to pull a goal back from the Penalty spot in the 44th Minute to change the game however it wasn`t enough as despite some intense pressure the `field were unable to claw themselves level and were hit by a sucker puch in the 90th minute. Callum Graham scored a wonderful second goal for Ashfield midway through the second half and with 2 minutes to Brian Hepburn got on the end of a Paul McQuilken cross only to see his glancing header hit the base of the post before being cleared to safety and it was the `peasy` that setled that Match with a well worked goal in the final minute to take the points.
FT:- ASHFIELD 2 PETERSHILL 4
Attendance:- 100
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, J Lynch, A Cairns, C Leverage, P Maxwell. D McKenzie, L Cochrane, M Giblin, C Graham, S McGladrigan and M McManus:- Subs - R McMahon, D Leverage, B Hepburn, G Hearton & S Doherty.
The heavy rain that had hit Cumbernauld earlier in the day had subsided and the Pitch was looking in good form as both teams went into the Match with differing agendas. The home side were on maximum points so far and were looking at progressing into the next round whereas Ashfield were looking to build on previous displays and get things right for the League launch on Saturday at Maybole. Both teams started off brightly with the home side confidently knocking the ball about and Ashfield were lively looking to achieve some success down the left flank which culminated in a couple of dangerous crosses and corners however in the 10th minute with the Roy`s firs attack they were gifted a goal by Ashfield. A corner on the right caused mayhem in the `field box as the Keeper ran into the Ashfield Centre half getting in the way of a potential clearance however left the goal open for a glancing header into the empty net. Rob Roy 1 Ashfield 0. A real blow for the visitors who had started brightly. Stephen McGladrigan was involved in a neat one-two midway inside the home half however his resultant shot went over the bar. Graeme Hearton had a mazy run before driving the ball low into the arms of the Roy Keeper. The home side`s movement around the box was excellent and in 17 minutes the home side increased their lead following a short passage of play with the Roy Centre breaking clear and got ahead of Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal to drill the ball under the Keeper. Rob Roy 2 Ashfield 0. Things got worse for the visitors as firstly Graeme Hearton had to off injured and was replaced by top scorer Callum Graham and then the home side were awarded a free-kick 22 yards out which was whipped into the top corner of Cammy Farquhar`s goal to effectively put the game out of sight for the `field. Rob Roy 3 Ashfield 0. The visitors held their own for the remainder of the half however were extremely conscious of the Roy attack.
HT:- ROB ROY 3 ASHFIELD 0
Whereas Ashfield can be disappointed with their first half showing, they more than made up for it in the second period following a couple of changes and held their own against their SuperLeague hosts however after an hour a slight defensive mix up culminated in a 4th goal for the home side with the Ashfield back ftwo failing to clear a wicked cross in with the ball falling to the Roy Winger who lobbed the ball over the advancing Ashfield Keeper to make it 4-0. Rob Roy 4 Ashfield 0. Young Dean Leverage was having a terrific game on the left flank linking up well with McManus and McQuilken with the latter almost pulling a goal back with a fierce shot which was saved by the Rabs Keeper only to see the ball break out to McGladrigan however his snap shot went agonisingly wide. Michael Giblin was next to test the home keeper as the `field began to work up a head of steam and were rewarded with 11 minutes to go when a lovely floated ball to the back post by Dean Leverage found its way into the top corner of the net. Rob Roy 4 Ashfield 1. As the Referee brought the sporting Match to an end it is Rob Roy who progress from Section 11 of the League Cup and will play local rivals Kilsyth Rangers in the next round. We wish them well. For the `field it is a trip now to South Ayrshire and some of the lads will require some treatment to nurse a few knocks & bruises picked up in the last 3 games.
FT:- ROB ROY 4 ASHFIELD 1
Attendance:- 75
Ashfield`s Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, R McMahon, A Amos, D. McKenzie , P McQuilken, M McManus, S McGladrigan, G Hearton and J Lynch. SubsL- M Giblin, C Graham, A Cairns, L Cochrane, R Dakhill
McBookie West Region Division 2
Maybole 3 Ashfield 7 - Saturday 03/08/2019
What an opening game to the Season with both teams going through the full emotions before the Match was finally won in the Second half by a rampant Ashfield side. It had been a while since the `field had been down at Maybole and within a minute of the Kick-Off were a goal up. Both teams were sporting their traditional strips as Paul McQuilken picked up the ball in Midfield before threading the ball through to Callum Graham with the big Ashfield Centre taking one touch before guiding the ball past the Maybole Keeper to the delight of the travelling support. Maybole 0 Ashfield 1. A great start for the `field and as they were still virtually congratualting themselves, the home side were awarded a free-kick on the far left. The ball was whipped in with the Maybole No 9 getting ahead of the Ashfield Keeper diverting a header across goal for a Maybole forward to head the ball home. Maybole 1 Ashfield 1. Straight from the Kick Off the `field lost possession with the ball being played through to the Maybole Centre who touched the ball past the onrushing Ashfield Keeper and within 3 minutes the home side were ahead 2-1. Maybole 2 Ashfield 1. Any latecomers would have missed the initial action as both teams began to settle down after a frantic start. Ashfield foraged forward at every opportunity to get on level terms and a lovely move on the right from Callum Graham found an onrushing Ross McMahon and the Ashfield Midfielders net bound strike was brilliantly tipped over the bar. Ashfield had to watch not to commit to many forward as the home side looked extremely dangerous every time they came forward and on the 22nd Minute found themselves further ahead. Ashfield appealed for Offside as the ball was played to the edge of the box and as Amos and Farquhar in the Ashfield goal were unable to reach the ball the Maybole No 9 again nipped in and lofted the ball high over their heads and into the empty net to the delight of the home fans. Maybole 3 Ashfield 1. The `field were up against it now and really had to work hard to try and win enough of the ball in Midfield to supply the forwards. With 5 minutes to go before the interval a tremendous run from Brian Hepburn on the left wing saw the ball delivered low and hard across the box with the home keeper failing to hold onto the ball and Callum Graham nipped in and placed the loose ball into the back of the net. Maybole 3 Ashfield 2. Ashfield tried hard to equalise before Half Time and the Maybole Team can thank their Keeper for pulling off a magnificent save. Ashfield won a free-kick 22 yards out just on Half time with young Brian Hepburn for Ashfield whipping in the Free-Kick with his effort heading for the top corner before being tipped over by the Maybole Keeper as the Referee brought proceedings to a halt.
HT:- MAYBOLE 3 ASHFIELD 2
It had been some first half and we can all look forward to another cracking League Season on this showing and within the first 10 minutes of the Second Half, the `field were level after a period of concerted pressure, initially with Brian Hepburn & Callum Graham putting pressure on the Maybole back four, the ball broke out to Mark McManus just inside the box. The Ashfield stalwart evaded one challenge before despatching a right foot shot into the top corner to the delight of the travelling support and it was now `game on`. Maybole 3 Ashfield 3. Ashfield started to build up a head of steam now and 6 minutes later , Paul McQuilken picked up the ball on the right wing before drilling a terrific cross into the path of Callum Graham who headed the ball into the far corner of the net as the players and fans went ecstatic as the big man celebrated his hat-trick. Maybole 3 Ashfield 4. The newly signed Centre Forward had scored 8 goals in Pre-Season and in the League Cup and was giving the Maybole back four a torrid time with his pace. As the home side pushed forward, Ashfield hit Maybole on the break and with 20 minutes to go, Callum Graham picked up the ball in his own half before driving at the Maybole rearguard and by the time he reached the edge of the box he cut in and drove a left foot effort into the back of the net with the aid of a deflection to put the `field further ahead. Maybole 3 Ashfield 5. It didn`t stop there as two minutes later the same player did the same thing on the left flank breaking clear of the home defence before lashing a left foot drive into the roof of the net to finish the contest. Maybole 3 Ashfield 6. Both teams made a couple of substitutions and Ashfield did not have long to wait before Stephen McGladrigan added to the `field`s score with an excellently taken goal from just inside the box. The Ex-Rossvale and Petershill striker will be an extremely valuable addition to the Ashfield squad this season. Maybole 3 Ashfield 7. The home side to their credit kept on going and should have pulled a goal back after a lovely move however the effort was dragged wide. The game was brought to a conclusion by the young Referee not before he took a bout of cramp in the humid conditions with the visitors being cheered off the park by their small and loyal band of supporters.
FT:- MAYBOLE 3 ASHFIELD 7
Attendance:- 60
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Crumlish, A Amos, R McMahon, M McManus, M Giblin, C Graham, P McQuilken and B Hepburn. Subs:- J Lynch, S McGladrigan, S Doherty, G Hearton
McBookie West Region Division 2
Thorniewood United 2 Ashfield 3 - Wed 21/08/2019
The afternoon deluge in North Lanarkshire had the game in doubt right up until Kick-Off in what would have been the `field`s third postponement of the Season.....in August. Alas it was not to be as Referee Bunting ensured the game went ahead and the fans who turned up were treated to another cracker of a Match with both teams going `hammer and tong` for the full 90 minutes. Ashfield seem to enjoy playing Thorniewood as the North Glasgow outfit secured another valuable 3 points against the Viewpark team to take back up the road despite the valiant attempt from the home side throughout the 90 minutes.
The first half was an end to end affair and the tone was set as early as the 2nd minute when a long ball was played into the home box and was headed down to an onrushing Mark McManus who volleyed inches past the post. Ashfield were linking up well and five minutes later the ball was played through to Callum Graham however after evading one tackle his net bound effort was brilliantly stopped by the wood Keeper. Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal was next up to be tested with two long ranged drives which were gathered well on the slippery surface. The home side then had an excellent 15 minutes pinning the visitors back, firstly after a lovely move the ball was played to the edge of the box where the ball was volleyed but brilliantly parried wide by the Ashfield Keeper. Next up for the home side was a similar move and shot which Farquhar tipped over the bar before an angled 20 yard drive went narrowly past the post. The home side then had a strong appeal for a penalty however Referee Bunting decided that the Wood forward simulated and he was booked accordingly. A real let-off for the `field as it was certainly a `good shout`. As the clock ticked towards the 45 minutes, the visitors made the breakthrough with the ball being played to Callum Graham on the edge of the box. The big striker drove past his marker before drilling the ball low and hard under the advancing wood keeper to put the `field ahead. Thorniewood Utd 0 Ashfield 1. A very good finish from Callum as the Referee then brought proceedings to a halt in the lashing rain.
HT:- THORNIEWOOD UTD 0 ASHFIELD 1
Unfortunately for the Crowd, the rain showed no sign of abating however the match itself certainly lived up to expectations. Within a minute of the restart the home side were level. A good old `stamash` in the penalty box following a corner saw the ball cleared against the arm of a Wood player and ricocheted into the net despite the claims from the visitors. Thorniewood Utd 1 Ashfield 1. Ashfield picked up the pace again to try and get ahead and the game became rather stretched for a while. On the hour mark, the visitors managed to get themselves ahead courtesy of a wonderful solo effort from Callum Graham. One of the Thorniewood defenders in the middle of the park lost his footing and the ball was picked up by Graham who ran at the Wood defence evading a couple of tackles before lashing the ball into the roof of the net to the delight of the travelling support. A tremendous effort from the Ashfield striker. Thorniewood Utd 1 Ashfield 2. Five minutes later and it was almost a carbon copy of the second goal when Callum Graham picked up the ball just inside the Thorniewood half and this time was crudely challenged just before he got inside the box. Unfortunately for the home side, the Centre Half who committed the foul was `last man` and was shown a straight `Red`. To make matters worst once the `dust had settled`, Michael Giblin took the Free-kick 20 yards out drilling the ball low and hard under the wall and into the corner of the net to put the `field 3-1 up. Thorniewood Utd 1 Ashfield 3. The game petered out slightly however fair credit to the home side who foraged forward at every opportunity with the `field dangerous on the break. Thorniewood pulled back a goal in the 92nd Minute following a corner with the Ashfield Keeper failing to hold onto the cross ball and the home side managed to force the loose ball home. Thorniewood Utd 2 Ashfield 3. The Referee brought proceedings to a close from Kick-Off and the `field can be delighted with this result against strong opponents.
FT:- THORNIEWOOD UTD 2 ASHFIELD 3
Attendance:- 60
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Crumlish, C Friel (Capt), A Amos, G Hearton, M Giblin, C Graham, M McManus, S McGladrigan. Subs:- P.Maxwell. P McQuilken, S Gordon, J Lynch,
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 4 Lugar Boswell Thistle 0 - Sat. 24/8/2019
After the deluge at Uddingston in midweek, it was a pleasant change for the teams to run out in sunny & warm conditions as the Old Saracen Park was looking in splendid condition. This was quite a momentous occasion as it was the first time the teams had ever met in Glasgow with their only other meeting being a Scottish Junior Cup tie in Lugar in 1984 when the `field ran out 3-1 winners. Both teams were in their traditional strips as the home side set about trying to get their` noses in front` early. The Ayrshire outfit, managed by a well known face from his Whitletts playing days Raymond Buchanan, were knocking the ball about well in the opening stages without troubling Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal however as soon as the `field went ahead in the 15th minute it looked like there was only going to be one winner. Ashfield`s opening goal came courtesy of a lovely solo effort from Stephen McGladrigan following an excellent cross field pass from Michael Giblin. The Ex-Petershill Striker cut inside immediately before drilling the ball low and hard to the keepers near post and into the net. Ashfield 1 Lugar Boswell 0. The home side got an immediate lift and started spreading the play well in the narrow confines of the playing pitch and a wonderful move down the right culminated in a cross from Colin Leverage with Graeme Hearton first to react steering the ball into the net to put the `field 2-0 up after 20 minutes. Ashfield 2 Lugar Boswell 0. The home side could see that the visitors were trying to forage forward at every opportunity and the `field then began to hit the Ayrshire team on the break and the third goal followed shortly after which was virtually a carbon copy of the 2nd with the ball being played across the six yard box with Graeme Hearton again getting in front of his markers to drill the ball home. Ashfield 3 Lugar Boswell 0. The visiting support must have feared the worst as following a corner in the 28th minute the ball was played to the edge of the six yard box where an onrushing Alex Amos was and the Ashfield defender prodded the ball home to put the `field further ahead. Ashfield 4 Lugar Boswell 0. Callum Graham, who had been Ashfield`s talisman in midweek had yet to find the net however a 20 yard volley narrowly missed the far post to the anguish of the big striker.
HT:- ASHFIELD 4 LUGAR BOSWELL 0
There was no changes in the line ups for the start of the second half however the pressure continued starting with an angled header from Graham which was well tipped over by the Lugar Keeper. Following the corner Mark McManus thought he had increased his tally for the season however his net bound effort was blocked on the line. Shortly after this and the home side were awarded a penalty which certainly can be badged under the `soft` variety with the new law about the ball hitting arm being put into force. Unfortunately Graeme Hearton was unable to complete his hat-trick as the Lugar Keeper saved with aplomb denying the `field a fifth. The game became rather subdued after this in the sweltering heat and came alive with 10 minutes to go when Alan Cairns, guilty of an earlier foul and shown the yellow card, was late with a tackle and was shown a Red and an automatic one match suspension. As the Referee brought proceeding to a close the `field can be delighted with their 4 days work - winning at Thorniewood and beating Lugar at home.
FT:- ASHFIELD 4 LUGAR BOSWELL 0
Attendance:- 55
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, C Leverage, A Cairns, A Amos, C Friel (Capt), j Crumlish, M McManus, M Giblin, C Graham, S McGladrigan , G Hearton. Subs:- R McMahon, B Hepburn, J Lynch, P McQuilken and S Doherty
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 5 Newmains United 1 - Saturday 7/9/2019
Ashfield welcomed Newmains Utd to Saracen Park in what was going to be an intrueging fixture following results from last Season. It was the Lanarkshire outfit that put an end to the `field`s unbeaten run at the start of last Season however the Glasgow Team won the return fixture comfortably. The crowd were just coming into the ground/setlling down when the home side opened the scoring. A lovely floated ball through to Callum Graham saw Ashfield`s big Centre find room in the box before guiding the ball into the net to put Ashfield ahead. Ashfield 1 Newmains United 0. A great start for the `field and they lay siege on the visitors defence for the next 15 minutes in a bid to try and kill the game off however found the visitors well marshalled at the back. Michael Giblin and Paul McQuilken were finding some room in midfield and were playing some lovely balls into the box. On 12 Minutes, the home side should have gone further ahead when an inch perfect cross from McQuilken found Graham however the prolific striker headed narrowly over. A great move down the right by Graeme Hearton saw the ball cut back from the bye line with Callum Graham getting a net bound touch only to see the ball deflect agonisingly wide. The visitors were showing a lot of grit and determination and a couple of corners had to be well defended however it was the `field that made a further breakthrough 10 minutes before half time. Michale Giblin played the ball over the top of the Newmains back four and was pounced upon by Callum Graham and the Ashfield forward dinked the ball over the Keeper and into the far corner of the net. Ashfield 2 Newmains Utd 0. The home side saw their chance to finish the game and within a few minutes Graham Hearton picked the ball up at the edge of the box before curling a shot with the outside of his right foot into the corner of the net to put the `field 3-0 up. Ashfield 3 Newmains Utd 0. This was a `body blow` to the visitors and would find it hard to come back against a very dangerous Ashfield team.
HALF TIME:- ASHFIELD 3 NEWMAINS UTD 0
The game followed a similar pattern to the first half however Newmains had a great chance 2 minutes from the restart to pull a goal back however the ball was blocked by Keeper Farquhar. The visitors were to pay for this miss as within five minutes the `field went further ahead courtesy of a tremendous strike from Callum Graham who completed his hat-trick. The big Striker picked the ball up on the edge of the box before evading a couple of challenges and lashed the ball into the top corner from 20 yards to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 4 Newmains United 0. The home side made a number of substitutions after this and were disappointed to concede a goal with 20 minutes left on the clock. Newmains were awarded a free-kick 35 yards out on the touchline and the ball was delivered into the box missing everyone including the Ashfield Keeper as it bounced up and found its way into the corner of the net. Ashfield 4 Newmains United 1. The home side picked up the pace again and the Newmains Keeper was kept busy. Ashfield scored their fifth with 10 minutes to go after a lovely move saw the ball floated into the box. Stephen McGladrigan was first to react and his header came back off the post into the path of an onrushing Michael Giblin who drilled the ball home from 10 yards. Ashfield 5 Newmains United 1. That was the end of the scoring and the game was played out in good spirit. Next up for the `field is a tricky away Match to Annbank Utd at New Pebble Park.
FULL TIME:- ASHFIELD 5 NEWMAINS UTD 1
Attendance:- 35
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, C Leverage, W Gatiungt, A Amos, R McMahon, J Crumlish, B Hepburn, M Giblin, C Graham, P McQuilken and G Hearton. Subs:- R Dakhill, P Maxwell, S McGladrigan, C Friel and D Leverage
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McBookie West Region Division 2
Annbank United 2 Ashfield 1 - Saturday 12th September 2019
The breeze from the Firth of Clyde was certainly going to make the game interesting as both teams entered the heavy surface at New Pebble Park. The visitors were on a rich vein of form scoring 9 goals in their last two games however were well aware of the current Annbank side who had already defeated the likes of Maybole and Vale of Clyde this season. It was the visitors that started the game well despite facing the wind with the ball holding up well with the forwards. Paul McQuilken was instrumental in spreading the ball to the wide areas of the park and a couple of last ditch tackles resulted in a number of corners for the `field. The Annbank side were well marshalled throughout by Lee Sloan who recently rejoined the Club from Girvan. Ashfield almost took the lead on 12 minutes with the ball breaking out firstly to Hepburn and then to McQuilken however his net bound effort was blocked by defenders. The home side were struggling at this stage to get out of their box as were guilty of over hitting the ball backed by the ferocious wind and it came as no surprise when Ashfield took the lead on 21 minutes. A corner was delivered into the box and Callum Graham was first to react to the knock down swivelling and knocking the ball into the far corner of the net. Annbank Utd 0 Ashfield 1. The big striker had to receive treatment shortly after for a nasty knock on the ankle and was struggling after this for a while. With half an hour on the clock the home side began to get their passing game together and started to hit Ashfield on the break. The `field were guilty of over passing the ball at the back in the treacherous conditions and as a result the game turned on its head on 40 minutes when a short pass back was blocked by the Annbank Centre forward. The ball broke out to the far side of the box with the Annbank winger coming on the blind side of Gatiungt and the Frenchman, who had a great game throughout, unfortunately giving away a penalty kick. This was finished with aplomb by No 9 Ryan to level the scores. Annbank Utd 1 Ashfield 1. This goal jolted Ashfield but they were unable to score before Referee Taylor brought proceedings to a halt.
HT:- ANNBANK UTD 1 ASHFIELD 1
The second half was more like a Cup tie with both teams going hard at it. The game was competitve however many of the players fell foul of Referee Taylor more for dissent than fouls and were yellow carded. Chances were at a premium as the `field adjusted to the wind behind them initially over hitting the ball as Annbank had in the first half. It was the `field that had the first big chance of the half when Callum Graham picked the ball up outside the box and after evading a couple of tackles drove the ball goalwards which took a slight deflection and missed the post by inches with the Bankies Keeper stranded. Both teams had adopted a very disciplined offside trap however with 22 minutes left on the clock the ball was played though to McLelland for Annbank with Referee Taylor playing on. As the Ashfield back four tried in vain to catch up, the Annbank winger drew out Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal before deftly lofting the ball over the Keeper and into the back of the net to the delight of the home support. Annbank Utd 2 Ashfield 1. This was a real blow to the `field who immediately changed things by bringing on Giblin and McManus and it was Giblin who almost got the `field back on level terms 5 minutes later. A lovely floated free-kick found Callum Graham in the box and the big Striker`s downward header missed the post by inches. Giblin again was instrumental in finding William Gatuingt at the far post and the young Fullback`s header across goal found no takers. The game became scrappy towards the end and Ashfield found themselves frustrated at the Referee`s decisions, no more than Paul McQuilken, who spoke out of turn and was given a straight `red`. The `field tried in vain for the equaliser however it wasn`t to be and the home side were delighted at the victory with the `field left to lick their wounds. A disappointing result for the Glasgow outfit however the games come thick and fast so they must `dust themselves` down for next week`s trip to Forth.
FT:- ANNBANK UTD 2 ASHFIELD 1
Attendance:- 70
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, W Gatiungt, D Leverage, A Amos, R McMahon, J Crumlish, G Hearton, P McQuilken, C Graham, S McGladrigan and B Hepburn. Subs:- M Giblin, M McManus, L Cochrane, R Dakhill and S Doherty
McBookie West Region Division 2
Forth Wanderers 0 Ashfield 1 - Saturday 21st September 2019
A big change in the weather following the `field`s last visit to Kingshill Park in April when both teams served up a cracking 2-2 draw, which unfortunately put a dent in Ashfield`s promotion bid. With the sun greeting the players as they entered the Kingshill turf It was good to see a couple of familiar faces in the opposing line up namely Billy Stevenson & Jordan Lynch, who both served Ashfield well. Both teams have started the season well and were desperate for the points in this competitive league. Ashfield, sporting their away strip of yellow & black were on the offensive in the opening stages with Callum Graham looking a handful again for the opposition back four linking up well down the left flank with Baz Hpeburn and young Dean Leverage and it was this trio that carved out the first real chance with the ball being played inside to Giblin who pushed the ball through to Callum Graham. The big striker looked odds on to scorehowever the Forth Keeper brought out a tremendous block and the ball was eventually cleared for a corner. Lee Cochrane was playing his first game of the Season and was holding the ball up well and just on the 20 minute mark, the visitors got the breakthrough when Callum Graham picked the ball upon the right hand side before cutting in/ Again his first effort was blocked by the Forth Keeper however the ball ended up in the middle of the box and Ashfield defender Colin Leverage was first to react evading one tackle and drilling the ball low and hard into the far corner of the net despite the valliant attempts of the Forth Keeper. Forth Wanderers 0 Ashfield 1. This goal gave the home side a jolt and it took them a wee while to regroup beforethey started to pressurise the visitors. The home side were beginning to get some joy from set peices and corners however found the Asahfield keeper Dakhill and the back four in resiliant form. The game was brought to a close by Referee Leghorn who had en excellent game throughout.
HT:- FORTH WANDERERS 0 ASHFIELD 1
Ashfield had certainly edged proceedings in the first half however it was the hosts who started the second half on the front foot pushing the `field back with the Forth No 9 certainly `catching the eye`. The `field however were dangerous on the break and had a couple of free-kicks which went narrowly over before Forth then mounted a couple of good attacks on the visitors goal. First up was young Jordan Lynch. The Ex-Ashfield player found some room in Midfield before despatching a low drive which looked like it was going to tuck itself in the far corner of the net until the wonderful interception of Ryan Dakhill in the Ashfield goal who managed to touch the ball round the post. Next up was the Forth No 9 who turned and swivelled on the edge of the box before delivering a shot which went narrowly wide. Ashfield made a couple of offensive subs bringing on Graeme Hearton & Stephen McGladrigan and it was from this source that the game was almost over. A nice move inside their own half found Graeme Hearton released on the right hand side and as he drew the last defender out he squared the ball to an onrushing Michael Giblin. The normally reliable `Gibby`unfortunately scuffed his shot agonisingly wide to the anguish of the visiting support. The `field were almost left to pay for this miss as in the 90th minute the Forth No 9 gathered the ball on the right hand side of the box before despatching a low drive which cannoned off the base of the post and was cleared to safety. A hard fought victory for Ashfield against a very good Forth side who will cause most teams trouble at their ground. It`s a break from League action to Scottish Junior Cup 2nd Round action next week when both teams are on their travels with Forth heading to Brig o`lea Park to play Neilston and the `field make the long trek up North to Inverurie to play Colony Park.
FT:- FORTH WANDERERS 0 ASHFIELD 1
Attendance:- 80
Ashfield`s Team:- R Dakhill, W Gatuingt, D Leverage, C Leverage, J Crumlish, R McMahon, M McManus, M Giblin, C Graham, L Cochrane and B Hepburn - Subs:- S McGladrigan, G Hearton, A Cairns, S Doherty
Macron Scottish Junior Cup 2nd Round
Colony Park 3 Ashfield 6 - Saturday 5th October 2019
The inclement weather continued where it had left off last Saturday as the Ashfield Coach rolled into the neat surroundings of Colony Park, Inverurie. The ground itself is immaculately kept and is situated next door to Highland League Team Inverurie Locos ground. With similar strip colours, the `field were forced into playing in their second strip of yellow and black and were greeted onto the park by their small band of supporters who did not have long to celebrate in the cold and damp weather. Straight from the Kick-off Ashfield made their intentions known and pressed forward. Callum Graham almost managed to wriggle free of his defenders before the ball was cleared to safety however the loose ball was played into the left hand side of the box. Brian Hepburn, Ashfield`s winger on that side gathered the ball before despatching a shot through a ruck of players into the corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Colony Bay 0 Ashfield 1. The visitors were rocked by this and almost equalised straight away with the ball bouncing about the Ashfield box before being despatched for a corner. That was it for a period for the home side as the Glasgow outfit stepped up a gear scoring three goals in 20 minutes to effectively win the tie. It was Baz Hepburn on the left hand side who drilled the ball into the box and it was Ross McMahon who was first to react and with the outside of his boot guided the ball into the top corner of the net giving the Park Keeper no chance. Colony Park 0 Ashfield 2. Next up was Callum Graham who shortly picked up the ball on the edge of the box. The `field striker evaded s couple of tackles before driving into the box and drilling the ball low and hard past the Colony Keeper to put the `field 3-0 up after 22 minutes. Colony Park 0 Ashfield 3. The rain was heavy now however the Glasgow team were winning the battle in midfield with Paul McQuilken spreading the play well. On the 34th minute, the ball was played out to the left where Baz Hepburn picked up the ball before driving into the edge of the box. The Ashfield winger evaded a couple of tackles before curling a shot which crashed off the underside of the bar with Ciaran Friel being first to react controlling the ball before placing the ball past the Colony Park Keeper to put the `field 4-0 up. Colony Park 0 Ashfield 4. This had been a terrific spell for Ashfield however their chances of a `clean sheet` were thwarted on the stoke of half time after a Colony Park corner on the right was only partially cleared and Douglas fired the ball into the net with the aid of a deflecton to ensure there was a glimmer of hope for the home side going into the Second Half. Colony Park 1 Ashfield 4.
HT:- COLONY PARK 1 ASHFIELD 4
The match continued to be hard fought and was more like a Junior Cup tie in the second half with the Referee having to earn his wages and a few players fell fall of the yellow card. However any chance that the home side could stage a fightback were dealt a blow on the 60th minute when after some nice play in and around the box, Ciaran Friel found some space and Ashfield`s joint top scorer last season drove the ball low and hard past the Colony Park Keeper to end the Match as a contest. Colony Park 1 Ashfield 5. A couple of niggling injuries to Ashfield players resulted in the hard working Ross McMahon having to go off with 15 minutes to go and it was a first competitve debut for Sean Doherty who had been out of Football for a considerable time following a serious injury. The Ex-Rossvale Captain slotting into a back three now and to cap everthing off for Sean the `field were awarded a corner 10 minutes to go. The ball was swept in by Hepburn and the Big Defender got in front of his marker to drive the ball under the Keeper to put Ashfield 6-1 up and his smile after scoring needed no explanation. Colony Park 1 Ashfield 6. To their credit the home side had made a couple of substitutes with one player `catching the eye`and following a mix up in defence where the Ashfield Keeper had thought the ball was out of play, Strachan drove the ball into the net to reduce the deficit. Colony Park 2 Ashfield 6. With 2 minutes left on the clock and to Ashfield`s disappointment, they allowed Colony Park`s MacKay some room 20 yards out and his curling shot found the corner of the net to put a more respectable scoreline on the tie. Colony Bay 3 Ashfield 6. As Referee Stephen Nicol brought proceedings to a close it is the name of Ashfield that will go into the hat for the draw on Monday 7th October 2019. Well done the `field !
FT:- COLONY PARK 3 ASHFIELD 6
Attendance:- 60
Ashfield`s Team:- D Johnson, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Amos, J Crumlish, R McMahon, M McManus, P McQuilken, C Graham, C Friel and B Hepburn. Subs:- P Maxwell, S Doherty
Further Pics on `Match Photos 2019/20` Section
Macron Scottish Junior Cup 3rd Round
Ashfield 4 Lugar Boswell Thistle 1 - Saturday 26th October 2019
The teams had waited 25 years to play each other following a Scottish Junior Cup Tie in 1984 and have now met each other twice in the last 6 weeks in Glasgow. The home side were keen to get back playing as had not kicked a competitive ball since their excellent away performance in Inverurie in the last round. Lugar themselves had not been in much action so both term entered the soggy surface playing in their respective home strips. It was the home side that went on the offensive straight from the Kick-off however the Ashfield front line were being well marshalled, so the initial threats for the `field came from right back Gatuingt and on the left side Hepburn and Dean Leverage. The `field should have gone ahead in the 10th minute when Callum Graham peeled away from his marker however was unable to hit the target with his header. A series of corners followed and despite pressure, the visitors defended well. Cammy Farquhar was not called much into action and this was due to the Central Pairing of Sean Doherty and Jack Crumlish winning most of the `through traffic`. At last for the home side the deadlock was broken after 22 minutes from the simplest of goals. A lovely floated free-kick from Michael Giblin saw Ashfield`s big Centre Half Sean Doherty `ghost` in at the back post to guide the ball into the back of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Lugar Boswell 0. The home side suddenly upped the pace and within 2 minutes were further ahead after a terrific move involving Hearton, Leverage and McQuilken before Baz Hepburn was released down the left flank before cutting in and drawing the Keeper out. The Ex-Crookston Amateur player still had a lot to do however drove the ball in the far corner of the net for his 3rd goal of the Season. Ashfield 2 Lugar Boswell 0. Ashfield did their best to effectively `put the game to bed` however found the Lugar Keeper in excellent form coupled with the defending. Callum Graham was desperate to break his duck and eventually broke free of his markers however his low driven shot came back off the inside of the post. As the Referee brought proceedings to a halt, the field knew that they perhaps should have been further ahead as there was enough on show from the visitors to know that they could still be extremely awkward opponents.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 LUGAR BOSWELL TH. 0
The game started off at the same pace and Graeme Hearton followed by Callum Graham had shots which went over the bar. Graeme Hearton was having a great match picking the ball up and running at the Lugar back four. As the half wore on the game became a bit tousy with some late tackles which kept the Referee busy. Ashfield`s Centre Forward was next up for a Card after breaking through the Lugar back four only to fall as he was going around the Keeper. The Referee booked Graham for simulation. Midway through the half, the game changed following a lovely goal from the visitors. A whipped in free-kick to the far post was met by the Lugar forward and his guided header found an onrushing forward who poked the ball into the net to give the Ayrshire men a lifeline. Ashfield 2 Lugar Boswell 1. Ashfield had to keep things tight for the next 10 minutes as the Cup Tie came to life with the game swinging from end to end and were given a break when Callum Graham again found space in the Lugar box and from our angle was well but firmly tackled. The Referee saw things differently and awarded the `field a penalty deeming that the tackle was from behind. The Big Centre stroked in his 28th Goal of the Season and we are not at November yet. Ashfield 3 Lugar Boswell 1. The `field then swarmed forward at every opportunity and with 8 minutes left got the `icing on the cake` when Graeme Hearton ran from virtually his own half before driving the ball low and hard and in off the far post to cap a memorable display. Ashfield 4 Lugar Boswell 1. A good performance from the `field against a much improved Lugar side and it is Ashfield`s name that goes into the hat for the 4trh Round for the third year running.
FT:- ASHFIELD 4 LUGAR BOSWELL TH. 1
Attendance:- 50
Ashfield`s Team - C Farquhar, W Gatuingt, D Leverage, S Doherty, J Crumlish, M Giblin, M McManus, P McQuilken, C Graham, G Hearton and B Hepburn. Subs:- C Friel, A Cairns, C Leverage, D Johnson & L Cochrane
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 4 Ardeer Thistle 4 - Saturday 2nd November 2019
An early morning Pitch inspection ensured the Match went ahead as the `field welcomed Ardeer Thistle to Saracen Park. Ardeer are no strangers to the Ground and after today`s visit will count this as one of their favourite away venues. The Thistle famously put the `field out of the Scottish Junior Cup when Ashfield were a Super League Premier Side in 2012/13 Season & that result is fondly remembered by their support. The Match started slightly subdued with the home side desperate to make up for lost time and to start and peg back the early front runners in the League. The visitors were under new Management and their results had improved compared to the start of the Season.
Ashfield were using the flanks well as there was not much room in Midfield and William Gatuingt was ably backing up the front line. A couple of excellent crosses were almost met by Callum Graham early on however after 18 minutes the big striker should have put the `field ahead. A lovely ball was played into the 6 yard box and the normally reliable Striker glanced his header inches past the post to the anguish of the home support. Next up was Baz Hepburn who cut in well from the left before despatching a net bound effort which was pushed away by the Thistle Keeper. Ashfield`s French right back was next up to try and break the deadlock against a well organised Ardeer Team however his 25 yard shot crashed off the top of the bar. The `field were becoming a bit frustrated with some of the Offside decisions & Alan Cairns was booked for dissent. The visitors had been lively going forward and looked extremely dangerous from set pieces with the Thistle right back possessing a tremendous long throw in. As it was the `field had to settle with a 0-0 scoreline at Half time as the Referee brought proceedings to a halt. The `field knew they would require to `up the tempo` in the Second Half in order to break down this stubborn Thistle back four.
HALF TIME:- ASHFIELD 0 ARDEER TH. 0
The Crowd could not have expected what was to unfurl in the next 45 minutes with 8 Goals being scored and a host of further missed chances. Ashfield almost opened the scoring seconds into the half with the visiting Keeper struggling with a cross ball. On the 54th Minute however after a rather tousy start to the half, the game was turned on its head following a long throw in on the right. The Ardeer No 2 launched the ball into the penalty spot area and an onrushing Thistle Player bulleted a header past Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 0 Ardeer Thistle 1. Ashfield immediately put the visitors under pressure and despite the onslaught, chances were at a premium and to make matters worse, the visitors secured another long throw in on the hour mark and similar to the first goal the delivery picked out a Thistle player on the edge of the box and his guider header squeezed in at the near post to put Ardeer 2-0 up. Ashfield 0 Ardeer Thistle 2. The management Team of Ardeer would have wanted a period of consolidation after this however Callum Graham used his pace inside the box to `rob` the visiting right back and was then pulled down in the process. The big striker stepped up and drilled his penalty into the corner to provide a lifeline for the `field. Ashfield 1 Ardeer Thistle 2. This goal settled Ashfield down and also brought on Paul McQuilken to add his talent to the Midfield area. A couple of minutes later and it was game on when a lovely through ball found the ball picked up by Baz Hepburn who evaded a tackle and was straight through on goal. As the Keeper advanced the Ashfield Winger drove the ball into the far corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 2 Ardeer Thistle 2. Ashfield could smell victory with 16 minutes remaining and shortly after a lovely move down the right was picked up by Graeme Hearton and his cross found Callum Graham who took one touch before lashing the ball into the corner of the net. Ashfield 3 Ardeer Thistle 2. The comeback was complete, or that`s what Ashfield thought as within 2 minutes it was all level. A long throw in from the right hand side caused mayhem in the Ashfield box as the Ashfield Keeper seemed to get lost in a ruck of players with the ball ending up in the back of the net. Ashfield 3 Ardeer Thstle 3. This was great entertainment for the neutrals as the clock ticked towards the 90th minute it was Ashfield that thought they had won the game over again. A ball was played up to Jack Crumlish and with the visitors appealing for offside he played the ball through to Callum Graham. The big striker drove towards goal and as the Keeper tried to narrow the angle, Callum placed the ball past him and into the back of the net as the Ashfield players, Managerment Team and Support went crazy. Another hat-trick for Callum and , including friendlies, has found the back of the net 31 times this season so far. Ashfield 4 Ardeer Thistle 3. Fair credit to Ardeer as they did not let this set back affect them and drove forward in search of an equaliser and as Referee Andrew Bryson looked at his watch hit 90 minutes Ashfield`s left back Alan Cairns conceded a throw in. The Visitors threw everyone up and as the ball was launched into the 6 yard box, the Ashfield Keeper attempted to punch the ball clear however the ball went back the way and trickled over the line to the anguish of the home support. Ashfield 4 Ardeer Thistle 4. As said it was a tremendous game for the neutral however the `field will be kicking themselves after doing the `hard part` by clawing themselves back to a winning position after being 2-0 down only to lose two points in injury time. Ardeer, on this performance, have made large strides forward under their new Management Team. It`s back to Cup action next week with the `field heading to Newlandsfield Park to take on Pollok in the West of Scotland Cup.
FULL TIME:- ASHFIELD 4 ARDEER TH. 4
Attendance:- 90
Ashfield`s Team:- C Farquhar, W Gatuingt, A Cairns, C Leverage, J Crumlish, C Friel, L Cochrane, M Giblin, C Graham, G Hearton and B Hepburn. Subs:- P McQuilken, A Amos, S Doherty, D Leverage & D Johnson
Some Photo`s below however more photo`s can be seen on `Match Photos 2019/20`
West of Scotland Cup First Round
Pollok 4 Ashfield 1 - Saturday 9th November 2019
This was the first time since 2013 that the teams had `locked horns` and on that day it was the Central League Cup Final where a certain Carlo Monti ensured the trophy went to the South Side of Glasgow. Nowadays there are 52 League places between the teams however Paul Maxwell is building an excellent group of players and the `field will be challenging for promotion this Season for that I`m sure. As the Crowd poured in the `field entered the Newlandsfield turf in an attacking formation and were playing in their 3rd strip of all Red. The game started off at a great pace with the home side keen to stamp their authority on the Match. It was the visitors that were extremely organised and were seeing a good deal of the ball down the left flank where Baz Hepburn was `catching the eye`. Despite a couple of whipped in corners the `field were holding their own however just as they began to venture forward a lovely move on the 16th minute saw a corner to the `Lok. McLauchlan, Pollok`s 6ft + Centre half managed to get above the `field back four and power his header downwards which was pushed aside by Ryan Dakhill and a minute later the home side went ahead after a cute back heel inside the box found Ex-Ashfield Midfielder Shaun Fraser who was first to react as he `dinked` the ball over the advancing Ashfield Keeper to put the home side 1-0 up. Pollok 1 Ashfield 0. The visitors needed to concentrate for the next period and this they did restricting Pollok to some long range shots however on the 20th minute Adam Forde thought he had increased Pollok`s lead when his 20 yard curling shot evaded the top corner by inches. Ashfield managed to find their rhythm in midfield and were knocking the ball about well. Paul McQuilken was having a great game against his old team. On 25 minutes Ashfield started to put a bit of pressure on the home side, firstly after a lovely drilled corner from Michael Giblin on the left found Sean Doherty however the big Centre half`s header went agonisingly past the far post. This was a `wake up`call for the home side and Callum Graham who was beginning to give the `Lok back two a hard time was crudely brought down by McLauchlan who was the first to go into Referee Scott Anderson`s book.
The game almost turned on its head after a lovely move saw Callum Graham break clear of his markers only to be brought down on the edge of the box by Jordan Longmuir in the `lok Goal. The Pollok Goalkeeper was the last man however was there any intention was the Referee`s decision to make, if so it would be Red. To the relief of the home support only a yellow card was produced and the visitors felt a bit hard done by. The resultant free-kick was drilled around the ball by Baz Hepburn however the Keeper was well positioned and gathered comfortably, The game ebbed and flowed after this as Referee Anderson brought first half proceedings to a close.
HT:- POLLOK 1 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield were buoyed by their closing spell in the first half and the game again started off at a great pace with the visitors utilising the flanks again. The `field had not had much to deal with in the opening exchanges however Ryan Dakhill had to pick the ball out of the net on the 53rd Minute when after determined play down the left flank, the ball was played to the Lok Left back Mark Sideserf and the Ex-Meadow player delivered a wicked cross to the far post which sailed over the Ashfield Keeper`s head and in off the underside of the crossbar to the delight of the home support. Pollok 2 Ashfield 0. This gave the home side a bit more breathing space and a couple of long range efforts went narrowly past Dakhill`s goal however in the 65th Minute the `field pulled a goal back. Excellent link up play down the left flank saw Colin Leverage gather the ball from Paul McQuilken and his low cross found Callum Graham peel away from his markers to drive the ball home to the delight of the away support. Pollok 2 Ashfield 1. It was game on now and no more than the visitors had deserved with their work rate. Ashfield brought on Alan Cairns and pushed Dean Leverage up on left wing and the youngster acquitted himself well. Callum Graham again was causing bother in the Pollok defence and managed to get a shot away which was well taken by Longmuir. With 5 minutes left to go the `field almost levelled the scores. A lovely cross into the box was met by Baz Hepburn and his looping header brought out a tremendous save by Longmuir as he touched the ball over the bar. However within 60 seconds the game was over. A nice build up from the home side saw them awarded with a Free-Kick 22 yards out. The wall was well positioned however that did not deter Adam Forde as the Pollok forward curled the ball into the roof of the net to the roar of the home support. Pollok 3 Ashfield 1. There seemed no way back for Ashfield now and a cross on the right from Gary McCann was met by a Pollok forward and his glancing header came back off the far post. As the clock ticked onto the 90th Minute, the home side were awarded another free-kick which was well delivered with the `field clearing the ball however Referee Anderson had spotted an infringement and pointed to the spot. A very soft decision and as Shaun Fraser lashed the ball past Ryan Dakhill to put the home side further ahead, the result seemed a bit harsh on the visitors. Pollok 4 Ashfield 1. It had been a tremendous Match and a great learning curve for the `field who can go into their next tranche of fixtures with confidence - Home to Maybole in the League then a Scottish Junior Cup 4th Round tie in Aberdeen against Stoneywood Parkvale FC.
It was also great to see Ex-Ashfield players Gary McCann & Shaun Fraser together with Ex-Assistant Manager Murdie McKinnon & Coach Billy Kerr and we wish Pollok all the best for the remainder of the Season.
FT:- POLLOK 4 ASHFIELD 1
Attendance:- 484
Ashfield`s Team:- R Dakhill, W Gatuingt, D Leverage, S Doherty, J Crumlish, C Leverage, G Hearton, M Giblin, C Graham, P McQuilken & B Hepburn. Subs:- D Johnson, L Cochrane, A Cairns, A Amos and P Maxwell
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 6 Maybole 5 - 16/11/2019
Ashfield welcomed Maybole to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium for the first time since 2013 and knew they would be in for a tough game against opponents who had scored 17 goals in their last 3 games. It was a tremendous Match on the opening day of the Season at Ladywell Stadium when Ashfield came back from 3-1 down to win 7-3 however surely there wouldn`t be as many goals this time ?
Ashfield made 2 changes to the team that performed so well against Pollok last Saturday and started off the game really well linking up down the flanks coupled with some crisp passing. The Maybole back four had to deal with some excellent wing play however managed to defend well. Virtually with their first foray up the park a lovely sweeping move saw a left foot drive hit the back of Dan Johnston`s net without a move from the Keeper. An excellent strike from the `bole striker. Ashfield 0 Maybole 1. The `field set about trying to get an immediate response and Baz Hepburn was unlucky with a couple of crosses into the box which were scrambled to safety. Maybole`s 9 & 10 were linking up well and looked extremely dangerous on the break and this was a concern when Ashfield were attacking. However eventually after 25 minutes, Ashfield drew level. The `field were awarded a free-kick 25 yards out following a crude challenge against Callum Graham and young Dean Leverage stepped up and rifled in a left foot shot into the bottom corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Maybole 1. The `field had upped their tempo and within a couple of minutes were ahead following a lovely curling corner from Paul McQuilken to the edge of the six yard box finding Sean Doherty who outjumped his markers bulleting a header into the net. Ashfield 2 Maybole 1. The game became rather tousy and there were a few individual battles going on which kept Referee James McCluskey busy. Just as the `field thought they were going to go in ahead the visitors had other ideas. A lofted ball into the box broke out to the Maybole No 9 who acrobatically volleyed a right foot shot in off the base of the post to level the scores. The Ashfield Keeper may have got a slight touch to it however was unable to stop the ball going over the line. Ashfield 2 Maybole 2.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 MAYBOLE 2
A very competitive first half was had and the `field will be disappointed that they didn`t manage to hold onto the lead before half time however nobody in the ground could have foreseen a further 7 goals in the second period. Within two minutes of the restart , the Maybole striker managed to get clear of his markers and lashed the ball past the advancing Ashfield Keeper to put the `bole ahead. Ashfield 2 Maybole 3. A real blow for Ashfield however worse was to follow when Maybole broke down an Ashfield attack and the ball was played out to the right winger who despatched the ball into the box and the chance was finished with aplomb driving the ball low and hard under Johnson to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 2 Maybole 4. Ashfield made a couple of immediate changes and Paul Maxwell brought himself on following an injury to Graeme Hearton and all of a sudden the pendulum started to shift Ashfield`s way. Ciaran Friel had been brought on to replace William Gatuingt and on the 65th Minute pulled a goal back. A lovely floated corner from Paul McQuilken was met `full on ` by Ciaran and his header hit the roof of the net. Ashfield 3 Maybole 4. Callum Graham and Brian Hepburn on the wing were causing the Maybole back four some concern now and Callum was on the end of some heavy tackling however as the game entered the last 20 minutes, Ashfield equalised. Again it was Paul McQuilken who was the master behind, as he delivered a terrific ball into the box and Paul Maxwell rose above everyone else to head the ball into the net for something like his 137th Goal for Ashfield (will have to check the Stats). Ashfield 4 Maybole 4. It was `game on` as Ashfield swarmed forward and Callum Graham was brought down on the edge of the box which also injured the Maybole defender and as he received treatment was given a 2nd Yellow Card. The effort from Hepburn was blocked however with 10 minutes left on the clock, Ciaran Friel found Brian Hepburn at the edge of the box and the Ashfield left winger took one touch before driving the ball into the top corner of the net with the aid of the crossbar. Ashfield 5 Maybole 4. The visitors were now struggling to cope with the` field`s attack and with a few minutes remaining , Callum Graham , who had been marked well throughout managed to break clear of his markers and lash the ball into the roof of the net with his left foot to ensure the points were staying in Glasgow or were they ? Ashfield 6 Maybole 4. The visitors deserve a lot of credit as they kept pressing forward and a speculative ball into the box found an onrushing full back who clipped the ball into the net with the Ashfield Keeper appealing for offside. Ashfield 6 Maybole 5. A further few minutes were played before the Referee brought proceedings to a halt and the valuable three points pushed Ashfield a further place up the League. There is a huge amount of Football still to be played however this could be an extremely importnat 3 points as we enter Winter.
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 MAYBOLE 5
Attendance:- 45
Ashfield`s Team:- D Johnson, W Gatuingt, D Leverage, S Doherty. J Crumlish, C Leverage, L Cochrane, P McQuilken, C Graham. G Hearton & B Hepburn Subs:- M Giblin, A Amos, C Friel, P Maxwell & M McManus
Stoneywood Parkvale 4 Ashfield 1
Macron Scottish Junior Cup 4th Round - Saturday 23rd November 2019
Ashfield`s dream of Scottish Cup glory disappeared into the mist and drizzle over Aberdeenshire yesterday afternoon as the North Region Side took advantage of excellent first half goals & some horrific Refereeing decisions to cement themselves into the last 16. I thought that I had seen it all in Junior Football spanning over 50 years of attending Ashfield games but the performance from the Referee in my opinion completely spoiled this Junior Cup tie. I do not wish this to sound like `sour grapes`as Stoneywood Parkvale were a really hard working and organised team but some of the decisions left the travelling support and Management baffled. Anyway to the Match itself which was played in torrential rain throughout was a typical Junior Cup tie. It was the visitors that started off on the front foot trying extremely hard to gain control of Midfield but were up against a physical presence which disrupted Ashfield`s flow. The `field had a couple of early corners which were defended by the home side however in the 12th Minute a lovely break found the `wood winger who evaded a couple of tackles before driving the ball low and hard into the far corner of the net. A great start for the home side with the visitors appealing for an infringement from No 8 who blocked the path of a tackle. Stoneywood Parkvale 1 Ashfield 0. The `field dusted themselves down and should have been level shortly after when a flick on inside the box found Callum Graham and the big striker headed the ball over the bar from six yards out. The game turned on its head shortly after this when Mark McManus was crudely tackled near the touchline as as Mark pushed his opponent away, the Referee produced a straight Red for the Ashfield player. The visitors could hardly believe this and for the next 20 minutes found themselves on the back of Bookings mostly complaining about some of the treatment received especially when Ryan Dakhill found himself fouled after claiming the ball. Amos, Giblin, Graham and Hepburn all found themselves into the book with the latter being booked for after being fouled. However back to the Match and the home side were proving very dangerous on the break and on the half hour mark went further ahead when the `wood striker picked up the ball 20 years out and despite the attention of the Ashfield back two he managed to swivel and curl a shot into the far corner of the net to put the home side further ahead. Stoneywood Parkvale 2 Ashfield 0. The `field were up against it now but despite being down to 10 were still making the passes and creating some chances which all augured well for the second half. As the teams went into the Pavilion, No 8 for the home side continued where he had left off on the park and had words aimed at the Ashfield Management which sparked a melee with the visiting support.
HT:- STONEYWOOD PARKVALE 2 ASHFIELD 0
The Ashfield Management Team were booked at the start of the second half before the Match started however Paul Maxwell & Ryan Cairley made no changes to the formation at this stage. For the next 30 minutes it was the visitors that stepped up a gear and after `knocking on the door` a couple of times, pulled a goal back on the 64th minute. A lovely ball was played into the box by the impressive McQuilken and Baz Hepburn found space in the box and guided his header past the despairing arms of the `wood keeper to reduce the deficit. Stoneywood Parkvale 2 Ashfield 1. It was `game on` now and Callum Graham was beginning to torment their back four and on the 72nd Minute almost equalised. A through ball found Graham out run the `Wood back 4 and as he went past the advancing Keeper he looked odds on to score however his effort trickled an inch past the far post. Another couple of decisions did not go the `field`s way and following one of the decisions, the Referee sent off Callum Graham with 10 minutes to go to the angst of the visiting support. This effectively made things extremely hard and Ashfield threw caution the wind bringing on Paul Maxwell and John Gaynor who went up front. The home side also brought on a couple of pacy forwards to maximise their numbers superiority and got their reward with a couple of minutes left after a sweeping move down the right saw the ball cannon off a couple of defenders before being driven home. Stoneywood Parkvale 3 Ashfield 1. Strange happening after this as while the Stoneywood team celebrated the `field took a quick centre which eventually led to Paul Maxwell knocking the ball into the empty net however the Referee disallowed the attempt with the `field claiming a recent change to the rules. Anyway the goal didn`t stand and to `rub salt into the wound` the home side scored a 4th in injury time after a good old `stramash` inside the box. Stoneywood Parkvale 4 Ashfield 1. An eventful and sore day at the office for Ashfield and certainly were left to lick their wounds as they made the long trip back to Glasgow edged with disappointment and annoyance.
FT:- STONEYWOOD PARKVALE 4 ASHFIELD 1
Attendance:- 40
Ashfield`s Team:- R Dakhill, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Amos, J Crumlish, P McQuilken, M McManus, M Giblin, C Graham, P McQuilken and B Hepburn - Subs:- P Maxwell, D Johnson, A Cairns, L Cochrane and J Gaynor.
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Ashfield 6 Vale of Clyde 1
McBookie West Region Division 2 - Sat 28/12/2019
Ashfield started the decade following some inclement weather on the 8th February 2010 with a home victory against Neilston by 2-1. Goals from Paul Maxwell & Shaun Fraser ensured victory at a Match, although a home game, which was played at Petershill Park due to burst pipes at the Old Saracen Park. 10 years on and it was the `field who finished off the decade with a tremendous victory against fellow promotion hopefuls in Vale of Clyde.
Ashfield knew that they would be in for a tough encounter against the `tin pail` who last week put 6 goals past Ardeer Thistle and the initial stages of the Match confirmed that with the visitors going ahead with their first attack on the 5th minute. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 1. Ashfield were `rocked` by the early opener and it took the `field a further 10 minutes to get fully into their stride. Chris Prior was back in goals for Ashfield after a `decade`and looked assured with his kicking however almost came unstuck trying to play the ball out and was booked for a foul. As the game began to open out the decent sized crowd were treated to some good football on a sticky pitch with the `field beginning to take control of midfield as the half wore on. The `field had been restricted to half chances with a number of shots from outside the box coupled with further shots from Graham and Hepburn which narrowly missed the uprights.
On the half hour mark, the first real chance fell to Ashfield and the normally prolific Graham missed a header from six yards out following a wicked corner from McQuilken. The big striker had peeled away from his markers only to see his downward header flash wide of the far post. New signing Luke Crerand almost pulled Ashfield level on the 40th minute after a wonderful solo effort but again the `field were up against an inspired Keeper who blocked the net bound effort. Ashfield were also conscious of the breakaway prowess of the visitors however following a shaky start the `field`s defence looked good with Sean Doherty marshalling the troops well and the full backs `bombing` forward at every opportunity. The `field had a number of free-kicks which failed to trouble the Vale Keeper however on the 43rd Minute the `field finally equalised. Callum Graham had been brought down on the edge of the box and despite Baz Hepburn`s effort hitting the wall the ball broke out to Jack Crumlish who drilled a low shot into the far corner of the net from 20 yards to the delight of the home fans. Ashfield 1 Vale of Clyde 1. This was Jack Crumlish`s first goal for Ashfield and could not have come at a better time as Referee brough first half proceedings to a close.
HT:- ASHFIELD 1 VALE OF CLYDE 1
Anyone late back to their seat would have missed a game-changing 7 minutes from the home side as they set about the visitors straight from the Kick-Off with firstly Graeme Hearton being brought down in the box in the 46th Minute. The Referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot and up stepped Callum Graham to drill in his 34th Goal of the Season despite a valiant effort from the Keeper. Ashfield 2 Vale of Clyde 1. The visitors looked shocked and within 2 minutes found themselves further behind following a wonderful solo effort from Callum Graham. All of a sudden the `field had found some room which wasn`t there in the first half and the big striker finished with aplomb. Ashfield 3 Vale of Clyde 1. The `field did not stop there and within 2 minutes the game was effectively over with Callum Graham turning to provider as he played the ball low and hard into the box finding an onrushing Graeme Hearton who drilled home Ashfield`s 4th. Ashfield 4 Vale of Clyde 1. An unbelievable start to the second half from Ashfield and they started to compound Vale`s misery by playing some excellent football starting with the Leverage brothers at full back. Both brothers drove relentlessly at the Vale back four producing good crosses into the box. Manager Paul Maxwell made a couple of changes to personnel bringing on firstly Michael Giblin for Jack Crumlish and then Stevie Dymock for Graeme Hearton. With 11 minutes to go, the `field increased their lead followng a corner on the right with the ball breaking to Sean Doherty in the packed box however the big Centre half poked the ball through a ruck of players and into the corner of the net for his 4th goal of the Season and Ashfield`s 5th on the day. Ashfield 5 Vale of Clyde 1. Shortly after Sean Doherty had the ball in the net again however the Referee `chalked` the goal off for an infringement. As the clock ticked towards full time, the `field produced a goal to add the `icing on the cake` as the ball was played up into the Vale half. Callum Graham`s pace allowed the ball to drop before powering his way past the last defender and delicately chipping the ball over the advancing keeper to complete the scoring. Ashfield 6 Vale of Clyde 1. A very good performance from Ashfield against strong opponents and if the `field play to this level week by week, then the second half to the season could be an extremely enjoyable one.
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 VALE OF CLYDE 1
Attendance:- 85
Ashfield`s Team:- C Prior, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Cairns, S Doherty, J Crumlish, B Hepburn, P McQuilken, C Graham, G Hearton and L Crerand. Subs:- P Maxwell, M Giblin and S Dymock
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 3 Yoker Athletic 0 - Saturday 4/1/2020
Ashfield welcomed `first footers` Yoker Athletic to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadiujm yesterday and also the first game of the decade to be played. Both teams have been in a rich vein of form recently and albeit Ashfield have played a number of games less than the Holm Park outfit nevertheless this was seen as a crucial encounter. Both teams graced the damp surface with the `field in their traditional Black and White Hoops with the visitors in an orange and black changed strip. The game started off at a good pace with both teams starting the game cautiously on the tricky surface and chances were at a premium in the early stages. The visitors probably had more of the ball however the `field looked extremely dangerous with Graeme Hearton and Callum Graham catching the eye early on. Ashfield were being tested down the left flank and Centre Half Sean Doherty had to put in a couple of timely interventions in the first half hour however as the teams began to get into their stride it was the `field who broke the deadlock and in some style. Ashfield had been linking well down the right hand side with Colin Leverage and Baz Hepburn working well together. A lovely cross was played into the box with Graeme Hearton first to react as the Ashfield striker pulled the ball back before going around a Yoker defender and despatching a low drive in off the far post to the delight of the home support. A tremendous goal from Hearton in what was his 7th goal of the Season. Ashfield 1 Yoker Athletic 0. The visitors were stung by this goal as the `field poured forward at every opportunity however the game was turned on its head on the half hour mark when the home side were reduced to 10 men. The game had been competitive and both Jack Crumlish and Bissland for the visitors went in for a 50-50 with the ball breaking free however the Ashfield midfielder was guilty of a petulant kick and was given his marching orders. A trifle harsh on Crumlish however he made the Referee think about the decision and in the end can have no complaints. The `field then rearranged their line up with Callum Graham going as lone striker and it was Callum who almost increased Ashfield`s lead following a terrific breakaway. The big Ashfield striker managed to race clear of his markers before despatching a chip which clattered off the bar and was cleared to safety. A real let-off for the `whey ho` and as the Referee brought first half proceedings to a halt the crowd knew they would be in for a dramatic second half.
HT:- ASHFIELD 1 YOKER ATHLETIC 0
The rain was never far away from the day as both teams made no changes to their line ups for the start of the 2nd half. The `field knew that they would have to defend well and for the most part of the first half had achieved that keeping Ex-Ashfield winger Chris Moulangou relatively quiet apart from a couple of wicked cross balls. It was the `field, with 10 men that started the stronger and McQuilken and Crerand were beginning to assert themselves similarly to last week`s win over Vale of Clyde. Callum Graham was proving a handful to the impressive back two of Yoker who tried their best to keep the big Ashfield striker at bay however 10 minutes into the second half could do nothing about Graham`s goal. The Ashfield striker received a ball over the top of the back four and as he raced for the ball managed the win the race and as the Keeper advanced, the Ashfield striker managed to get the break of the ball from the 50-50 and walked the ball into the empty net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 2 Yoker Athletic 0. A real blow for the visitors who were struggling to break down the Ashfield 10 men and found themselves on the receiving end of a number of yellow cards which proved costly. With 22 mins of the half remaining Callum Graham managed to drive at the visiting defence only to be upended on the edge of the box and the Yoker defender was shown a second yellow and both teams were now playing with 10 men. The resulting free kick saw the Yoker Keeper pull off a tremendous save to keep the score at 2-0 however didn`t have long to wait before he was picking the ball out of the net again as Callum Graham netted his 27th competitive goal of the season. Ashfield 3 Yoker Athletic 0. With 8 minutes to go the visitors who never stopped trying to play Football were awarded a penalty after some trickery from Chris Moulangou resulted in the winger being brought down just inside the box. Up stepped the Yoker forward however found Chris Prior in top form as the Ashfield Keeper dived to his right to save the kick and ensured a clean sheet for the home side. Things became a wee bit bad tempered on occasions however it was no more than both sides trying their utmost to get the upper hand. The Referee controlled the game however was perhaps a bit guilty of flashing the Cards so early. A great victory for Ashfield against fellow promotion hopefuls in Yoker and the `field are now on their travels with an away match at Ardeer next Saturday.
FT:- ASHFIELD 3 YOKER ATHLETIC 0
Attendance:- 65
Ashfield`s Team - C Prior, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Cairns, S Doherty, J Crumlish, B Haepburn, P McQuilken, C Graham, G Hearton and L Crerand. Subs:- M McManus, D McKenzie, R McMahon, S Dymock and M Giblin
McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 3 Saltcoats Victoria 1 - Saturday 18th January 2020
Ashfield welcomed a much improved Saltcoats Team to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium in what was a crucial encounter for the home team. The `field have really impressed in recent weeks beating promotion hopefuls Vale of Clyde and Yoker Athletic and scoring 9 goals into the bargain. This was a different proposition today as Saltcoats squeezed every bit of a room on the tight Saracen Park ensuring the `field could not get into their rythymn and therefore chances were at a premium. It was easy to see early on that the Ayrshire Team were very comfortable hitting Ashfield on the break and they did so with pace and energy. A couple of early corners for the home side resulted in with swift breakaways from the Vics and Sean Doherty and Co at the back for Ashfield had to concentrate hard. As mentioned chances were at a premium and a couple of blocked shots were the closest the `field came to in the opening half hour. Callum Graham was well marked by the Vics back four however the big Ashfield striker almost got on the end of a whipped in cross however the Referee blew for an infringement. The game was played in good spirit and although tackles were fierce, the game did not merit the number of bookings being dished out. As the minutes ticked away before the interval, the home side knew they would have to be patient to secure the points.
HT:- ASHFIELD 0 SALTCOATS VICS 0
Ashfield Manager Paul Maxwell did not make any half time changes however within the first 5 minutes of the half, the game began to open out and Ashfield had their first major chance. A lovely move saw the ball threaded through to Luke Crerand on the left hand side and the Ashfield winger cut in before advancing on the Vics Keeper. I think Luke was in two minds whether to go himself or cross and the result was a chipped effort which the Keeper blocked and rebound off Crerand and off the outside of the post. A real chance which was almost costly as the Vics following a corner despatched a couple of shots into the box which were blocked however the 2nd shot careered to the edge of the six yard box and a turn and shot from Lyons hit the base of the post before being cleared to safety. Ashfield stepped up the pace after this and were beginning to find joy down the flanks. Mark McManus was introduced and Baz Hepburn moved to the left wing and were ably backed by the Ashfield full backs in delivering crosses into the box. Just as Player-Manager started to get himself stripped for the Match, Ashfield made the breakthrough on 65 minutes. Callum Graham had been kept relatively quiet during the opening spell however he turned in a tremendous last 25 minutes effectively securing the points. Ashfield`s opener on 65 minutes was a corker with Graham picking the ball midway inside the Vics half before driving down the left and despatching a ball into the far top corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Saltcoats Vics 0. Whether it was a cross-come shot it was hard to tell however the Vics Keeper was left with no chance. All of a sudden the Vics back four looked shaky and the No4 who had been immense throughout the game turned and played the ball back to his Keeper without seeing Baz Hepburn lurking behind him. The Ashfield Winger used his pace to pick up the loose ball and round the advancing keeper and squeeze the ball in from a tight angle. Ashfield 2 Saltcoats Vics 0. The visitors tried hard to get back into the Match and had a couple of efforts from Free-Kicks which were well saved by Chris Prior. With 10 minutes to go, the game was ended as a contest as a lovely through ball from Michael Giblin found Callum Graham latching on first to the ball and as the keeper advanced he lobbed the ball over his head and into the net for his 40th Goal of a remarkable season. Ashfield 3 Saltcoats Vics 0. The game was played out from end to end and in the 2nd minute of injury time, Saltcoats pulled a goal back courtesy of a goalkeeping error from Chris Prior who had been terrific throughout. A hard driven ball from the edge of the box seemed initially to have been saved by the Ashfield Keeper however the ball was hit with some force and squeezed through his hands and over the line. Ashfield 3 Saltcoats Vics 1. A very hard working performance from Ashfield against a team who will cause many teams problems this Season and it is now onto McKenna Park next Saturday to meet our old friends at St Anthony`s.
FT:- ASHFIELD 3 SALTCOATS VICS 1
Attendance:- 60
Ashfield`s Team: - C Prior, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Cairns, S Doherty, J Gaynor, B Hepburn, P McQuiken, C Graham, G Hearton and L Crerand. Subs:- P Maxwell, M McManus, R McMahon, and M Giblin.
McBookie West Region Division 2
St Anthony`s 0 Ashfield 6 - Saturday 25th January 2020
Ashfield made the trip to the `other side` of the River Clyde to take on a talented St Anthony`s side who they had not beaten since December 2007 at McKenna Park despite coming close on a couple of occasions. With this in mind the `field were determined to continue their 3 game winning streak after last week`s win against Saltcoats and Manager Paul Maxwell only made small changes, bringing Michael Giblin into the middle of the park and welcoming new Spanish Goalkeeper Inigo Berho to the bench. From Referee`s whistle it was the home side that made their intentions known with two great chances, firstly a shot through a packed Ashfield defence took a deflection and somehow Chris Prior managed to react and touch the net bound effort around the post and following that a 20 yard piledriver from the Ants No 3 found Chris Prior in excellent form as the Ashfield Keeper finger-tipped the ball over the bar. The Ants looked really up for the Match and it took Ashfield around 10 minutes to get into their stride with their passing game with both fullbacks and Paul McQuilken and Luke Crerand catching the eye. Callum Graham was well marked initially however the big Ashfield striker is not quiet for very long and in the 12th minute managed to break through the Ants rearguard and as the Ants Keeper advanced he drove the ball low and hard into the net to the delight of the travelling supporters. St Anthony`s 0 Ashfield 1. It was tough on the Ants after such a bright opening however before `dusting` themselves down the `field went further ahead. Some lovely play down the right hand side saw the ball gathered by Baz Hepburn and as the Ashfield winger went past the left back he was brought down with the Referee having no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Callum Graham stepped up and drilled the ball home to put the `field 2-0 ahead after 15 minutes. St Anthony`s 0 Ashfield 2. Ashfield were now using the flanks well and after 20 minutes the game was effectively over when following a corner the ball broke out to Graham in the six yard box and the Ashfield striker lashed the ball into the net to put the `field 3-0 ahead. St Anthony`s 0 Ashfield 3. The game will still played openly at this stage and swung from end to end before the Referee brought first half proceedings to a close.
HT:- ST ANTHONY`S 0 ASHFIELD 3
The second half started off in similar vein to the first with the home side putting the `field under pressure however the visitors back four were immense throughout and hardly gave a very talented Ants front line much room and as the half wore on it was the `field that began to look more and more dangerous and finished the game as a contest in the 62nd minute after a wonderful solo goal from Luke Crerand. The Ashfield left winger picked the ball up on the left cutting in a couple of times before a quick pass and go at the edge of the box found the Ex-Petershill Man on the right hand side of the box and he curled the ball into the far corner with the ball crashing over the line after hitting the cross bar. A wonderful effort and goal. St Anthony`s 0 Ashfield 4. Worse was to follow for the home side as they pressed forward as the ball was played through to Callum Graham 45 yards out with the big Ashfield striker breaking clear of the defence with his pace before drilling the ball home for his 4th goal of the game. St Anthony`s 0 Ashfield 5. Mark McManus had been brought on to replace Michael Giblin and was right in the thick of the action working hard and causing problems to the home side down the right flank with a couple of wicked crosses and it was not long until the Ex-Ants man heaped further misery on his old team when the ball broke to him around the penalty spot and he clipped the ball into the corner of the net for Ashfield`s 6th. St Anthony`s 0 Ashfield 6. The home side were delighted to hear the final whistle as the visitors celebrated this excellent victory. That`s now 4 victories in a row for the `field scoring 18 goals and losing 2 and the `bandwagon`goes on next Saturday as the `field welcome a very good Forth Wanderers Team to Ashfield.
FT:- ST ANTHONY`S 0 ASHFIELD 6
Attendance:- 51
Ashfield`s Team:- C Prior, C Leverage (Capt), D Leverage, A Cairns, S Doherty, M Giblin, B Hepburn, P McQuilken, C Graham, G Hearton and Luke Crerand, Subs:- M McManus, P Maxwell and I Berho.
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McBookie West Region Division 2
Yoker Athletic 1 Ashfield 4 - Saturday 8th February 2020 - K.O. 2pm
A Crunch Match in terms of League positions were fought for at a blustery Holm Park yesterday where it was `Storm Callum` that arrived ahead of `Storm Ciara` to ensure the three vital points were heading along the road to Saracen Park. This was the `field`s fifth straight win in a row scoring 22 goals in these games and now sets the North Glasgow outfit up for a real go at Promotion. You will not hear the `P` word uttered from Paul Maxwell and his Management Team as there are still 13 games to go in this tough League however yesterday`s result against one of the fellow contenders certainly laid down a mark. It started however extremely brightly for the home side, who dominated early proceedings, adapting to the conditions and the surface and were knocking the ball about well with the No 11 catching the eye with his pacy runs down the left flank. The Ashfield back four struggled to cope with the swirling wind and were guilty of conceding a couple of `silly` free-kicks within shooting range. Chris Prior in the Ashfield Goal was lively and alert pushing a net bound effort out in the 8th minute however 2 minutes later he was picking the ball out of the net following a corner which was held up in the wind and with the `field defence struggling to clear the ball, the Yoker No 8 David McGrath stabbed the ball through a ruck of players and into the corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Yoker Athletic 1 Ashfield 0. This goal gave the visitors a `jolt` and as the Home side surged forward at every opportunity the `field defence was beginning to cope with the danger with Sean Doherty and Colin Leverage marshalling the `troops` well. The Referee was kept busy in the opening exchanges and was guilty of brandishing Cards early on however was determined to `keep a lid` on things as both teams were certainly fully committed in the swirling wind. Doherty, Hepburn and Hearton were all yellow carded in the first half for the visitors. As the half wore on the conditions seemed to deteriorate however Ashfield were beginning to find success with the ball played over the back four instead of the use of the flanks and after a couple of last ditch tackles by the Keeper and Centre half for Yoker, the field equalised in the 38th minute courtesy of an opportunist goal from Callum Graham. The ball was flicked over the back four by Michael Giblin where Callum Graham utilised his pace however the Yoker man just got a touch back to his Keeper which was slightly short and the richochet clearance broke kindly to the Ashfield forward and the big striker had the easiest tasks of slipping the ball into the empty net to square things. Yoker Athletic 1 Ashfield 1. The match then flowed from end to end before Referee McCluskey brought proceedings to a halt and a welcome half time cup of tea.
HT:- YOKER ATHLETIC 1 ASHFIELD 1
The 100+ Crowd which had turned up at a much improved Holm Park certainly knew they would have to `brave the elements` as the weather seemed to worsen for the start of the second half with the rain beginning to come on however both sides put on an excellent show in the second period with Ashfield `stepping up a gear` to ensure victory. It was certainly 50/50 until the hour mark with both sides foraging forward at every opportnity. Chris Prior had again to look lively blocking a shot with his legs from the right hand side however it was Ashfield that came closest with a couple of free-kicks following some hefty challenges on the edge of the box. Ashfield began to take control of midfield with McQuilken, Giblin and Crerand producing some excellent service to the now front three after Baz Hepburn had moved to the left hand side for a while and with 18 minutes left on the clock the visitors made the all important breakthrough. A ball was flicked through the Callum Graham on the edge of the box and the big Ashfield striker evaded a couple of challenges before depatching a right foot shot into the far corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Yoker Athletic 1 Ashfield 2. Yoker were beginning to struggle with the pace of the Ashfield forwards and within 5 minutes the `field went further ahead. Michael Giblin drove at the Yoker defence and with everyone awaiting his shot he cutely cut the ball into the path of Callum Graham again and the Ashfield Centre finished his hat-trick off with aplomb leaving the Yoker Keeper with no chance. Yoker Athletic 1 Ashfield 3. Ashfield had their `tails up` now and on the 83rd Minute Callum Graham picked up the ball midway inside the Yoker half before driving at the back four and despatching a right foot drive past the despairing arms of the Yoker Keeper to ensure victory for the `field in their changed strip of yellow and black. Yoker Athletic 1 Ashfield 4. A wonderful four goal salvo from Callum Graham, his 2nd 4 Goal performance in a row and as Referee McCluskey brought proceedings to a close, thoughts turned to next week`s visit to League Leaders Vale of Leven. However it certainly is worth enjoying yesterday`s performance first at a notoriously difficult ground to obtain points at.
FT:- YOKER ATHLETIC 1 ASHFIELD 4
Attendance:- 105
Ashfield`s Team:- C Prior, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Cairns, S Doherty, P McQuilken, B Hepburn, M Giblin, C Graham, G Hearton and L Crerand. Subs:- I Berhas, P Maxwell, J Crumlish, B Rodden and M McManus.
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McBookie West Region Division 2
Vale of Leven 3 Ashfield 2 - Saturday 15/02/2020 - Kick Off 2pm
For the second week running, the `field had to overcome severe overhead conditions whilst playing teams in 2nd and 1st positions in the League respectively and after 30 minutes at Millbank yesterday it looked like they were going to come away with the 6 points from the two matches, however the home side had something to say about it yesterday and ensured a real cup tie of a Match which had chances right up until the 93rd minute.
Firstly it must be said that the Ground Staff at Millburn deserve a huge amount of credit for ensuring the game went ahead however it also must be said that the overhead conditions were as bad as it gets and both sets of players deserve huge credit for putting on such a good show.
The game started with Ashfield Keeper Chris Prior launching a couple of kick-outs which barely got any distance before he started to drive the ball low and hard to obtain distance. The Vale looked lively in the early stages and were utilising the flanks to good effect however after 10 minutes, with the visitors first real foray upfield, Callum Graham came within an inch of putting Ashfield ahead after finding some space in the box and dispatching a shot with the outside of his foot which narrowly missed the post. This was a warning for the Vale however with five minutes of that chance, Ashfield went ahead. Graeme Hearton was everywhere for Ashfield in the early exchanges and won the ball midway inside the Vale half before driving at the home defence and finding Callum Graham who drove past the last defender and despatched a left foot drive into the roof of the net for his 38th competitive goal of a remarkable season. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 1. The Vale responded well and brought out a good couple of saves from Chris Prior who was marshalling his back four well especially from inswinging corners. The home side had the benefit of the ferocious wind behind them in the first half however sometimes this can be a disadvantage and it was Ashfield, up until the half hour mark that were benefitting from their usual passing game and in the 28th minute were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box. Michael Giblin whipped the ball into the penalty spot and Ashfield`s Centre Callum Graham hovered in the air beating the Vale Keeper to the ball and guiding his header into the net to the delight of the travelling support. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 2. The Vale through caution to the wind if you pardon the pun and pushed forward strongly in the last 10 minutes of the first half to try and pull a goal back before the interval and after a series of corners got their reward with 6 minutes left in the half. An inswinging corner was partially cleared by the `field defence however the ball landed just inside the box with the Vale No 3 Jackson first to react and volleyed an unstoppable shot past Chris Prior into the roof of the net. Vale of Leven 1 Ashfield 2. It was `game on` now and this was the lift that the home side needed who almost equalised on the stroke of half time with a header, however it was not to be as Referee Kieran O`Reilly brought first half proceedings to a halt.
HT:- VALE OF LEVEN 1 ASHFIELD 2
The wind had died down slightly at the start of the second half however the rain became heavier and for a while it was absolutely torrential with some of the players beginning to struggle. It was the home side that made a couple of changes and were now playing with virtually four up front and utilising two wingers and Ashfield were caught on their heels a couple of times after losing possession when attacking. Chris Prior has to be at his best on a couple of occasions and on the hour mark made a terrific double save from the Vale forwards however this only prolonged what was coming as on the 66th minute Scott Arthur made a terrific run down the left flank before despatching a low cross into the path of Lewis King who drove the ball past Chris Prior to the roar of the vociferous home support. Vale of Leven 2 Ashfield 2. Ashfield made a couple of changes to freshen things up with recent signing from Livingston Bradley Rodden coming on together with John Gaynor as the`field tried to get back in the game however at this point the home side had their `tails up` and were relentless foraging forward and after a defensive mix up with Luke Crerand mis-kicking his clearance the ball broke to Ross Leyden who had the simple task of drilling the ball into virtually an empty net. Vale of Leven 3 Ashfield 2. A bad goal for the `field to lose however to be fair they brought on Ross McMahon who began to win a fair share of midfield balls and alleviate the other visiting Midfielders and for the last 10 minutes it was Ashfield that began to have the upper hand. Despite pressure, chances were at a premium until the 89th minute when the Vale Keeper pulled off a save pushing the ball out and a typical `tramash` then ensued before the Referee blew for an infringement. As the clock ticked towards the final minutes of injury time, Ashfield had a number of corners and Chris Prior in the Ashfield goal joined the attack and with seconds left the `field were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box. This was `last chance saloon` for the `field as Bradley Rodden whipped the ball around the wall only to see the Vale Keeper at full stretch touch the ball past the post and that was it. The Vale move onto 44 points with the `field 10 points behind them with 7 games in hand. I have a feeling that this years Promotion race, like last year, will go to the `wire`. Ashfield head to the seaside next Saturday and a trip to Saltcoats in what will be another tough away fixture with the Vale having a week off before travelling to Muirkirk on the 29th.
FT:- VALE OF LEVEN 3 ASHFIELD 2
Attendance:- 100
Ashfield`s Team:- C.Prior, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Cairns, J Crumlish, P McQuilken, B Hepburn, M Giblin, C Graham., G Hearton and L Crerand. Subs:- B Rodden, J Gaynor, R McMahon, P Maxwell & R Dakhill
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McBookie West Region Division 2
Ashfield 6 Annbank United 3 - Saturday 29/02/2020 - K.O. 2pm
(Match played at Renfrew F C )
Firstly a big `thank you` to everyone at Renfrew Football Club for allowing us to utilise facilities due to the drainage work being carried out at our Home ground. Despite the excellent facilities at New Western Park, the weather did not welcome both sides onto the pristine 4G surface as the crowd came in late due to the traffic problems around Braehead. Both teams took a while to adjust in a very competitive start to the Match. The visitors No 7 and No 10 were `catching the eye` early on utilising their pace to drive at the Ashfield back four. Chances however were at a premium and just as the visitors were getting a head of steam up the `field went ahead with their first chance of the Match. A wicked corner from Luke Crerand on the left found Callum Graham in the box and as the ball was played in after being initially blocked the big Ashfield striker guided the ball in with his knee into the roof of the net to the delight of the Ashfield support. Ashfield 1 Annbank Utd 0. Ashfield didn`t get a chance to enjoy the lead as within 2 minutes Annbank were level. A foul was awarded to Annbank on the edge of the Ashfield box and the ball was whipped into the far post where Dunlop ghosted in and the ball ended up in the net via a deflection from Callum Graham. Ashfield 1 Annbank Utd 1. It was `game on` and six minutes later the visitors were awarded a free kick following a challenge by Bradley Rodden which sparked a melee midway inside the Ashfield half. The free kick again was drilled well into the box and it was the unfortunate Sean Doherty for Ashfield who put his head on the ball only to see it deflect past Chris Prior in the Ashfield Goal to put the Ayrshire men ahead. Ashfield 1 Annbank Utd 2. Annbank then suffered the same fate as Ashfield had earlier, as within a couple of minutes the game was level after a lovely through ball found Baz Hepburn break clear before rounding the keeper and drilling the ball into the empty net to pull the` field level. Ashfield 2 Annbank Utd 2. The game became rather tousy after this as the rain lashed down and both teams were happy to see the half time whistle as the support headed for the warmth of the catering facilities.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 ANNBANK UTD 2
Whatever was said at Half time had a galvanising effect on Ashfield, as similar to the game at Yoker 3 weeks earlier, the `field `stepped up a gear` and dominated the next 45 minutes scoring some wonderful goals and hoisting themselves up to 4th in the League and within touching distance of a promotion place. Ashfield went ahead in the 52nd Minute following a lovely move with the ball being played out to Baz Hepburn just outside the box The Ashfield winger steadied himself before volleying a shot into the far corner of the net to put the `field ahead. Ashfield 3 Annbank Utd 2. This was an excellent effort from a player that is improving with every game and shortly after the `home side` were further celebrating as Brad Rodden picked up the ball on the edge of the box before evading a couple of tackles and then despatching an effort which took a deflection on its way into the back of the net for the winger`s first Ashfield goal following his signing from Livingston FC. Ashfield 4 Annbank Utd 2. The `field continued to attack at every opportunity as the game again became rather tousy and after a couple of incidents, the Annbank No 10, who had been terrific throughout the Match fell foul of the Referee and was given two yellow cards for speaking out of turn. The `field thought the match had been tidied up however the Ayrshire men had different ideas and a cross into the box found Ashfield right back Colin Leverage guide his header past Chris Prior in the Ashfield goal to bring the game alive again. Ashfield 4 Annbank Utd 3. The visitors momentum only lasted a few minutes as the `field picked up again scoring two goals in as many minutes. Firstly from the penalty spot as a Baz Hepburn shot came off the arm of an Annbank defender with the Referee pointing to the spot. Callum Graham stepped up to score for Ashfield for his 41st Goal of the Season. Ashfield 5 Annbank Utd 3. Shortly after Callum Graham broke clear of the Annbank defence and as the Annbank Keeper tried to narrow the angle, the Ashfield striker chipped the ball over the keeper and into the back of the net to put the `field 6-3 ahead. Ashfield 6 Annbank Utd 3. The rain did not let up as the `field finished on top and can be pleased with their performance against a very hard working Annbank Team. Next up is a trip down the Ayrshire Coast to play Ardeer Thistle with fingers crossed for a change in the weather.
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 ANNBANK UTD 3
Attendance:- 40
Ashfield`s Team:- C Prior, C Leverage, D Leverage, A Cairns, S Doherty, J Crumlish, B Hepburn, B Rodden, C Graham, G Hearton and L Crerand. Subs:- R Halliday, I Berhas, P Maxwell and P McQuilken
