Match Report and Pics - Season 2021-2022
Maryhill 0 Ashfield 3 - Pre-Season Friendly - Saturday 5th June 2021 - 2pm (Match played at Springburn Park, Glasgow)
It was tremendous to get back to watching live Football this afternoon again as the `field entered the Astro-Turf at Springburn Park in North Glasgow for their first match since a 3-3 draw at the Penny Cars Stadium, Airdrie against Glasgow University on the 19th December 202o. Maryhill were infact Ashfield`s first opponents in a stop-start season last year and both teams were eager to put on a good performance after the long break and this was emphasised with the fast pace start to the game. Ashfield had a new front line following Callum Graham`s departure to Pollok in the close Season however his replacement made the Ashfield faithful quickly move on after seeing Ben Dailly run the `hill defence ragged in the opening 25 minutes. Ben joined the `field from Lowland Outfit Caledonian Braves and immediately linked up well with his two wide forwards, Brad Rodden and young Nicky McLaughlin as the `field produced a very impressive opening to the game which had the Maryhill Team on the back foot. Early efforts from Dean Leverage on the left hand side of Midfield and new signing Darren Burns almost opened the Ashfield account however it took until the 18th minute before going ahead courtesy of a handball decision in the box following an Ashfield corner. Ashfield`s new Striker stepped up and sent the `hill keeper the wrong way to put the `field ahead. Maryhill 0 Ashfield 1. The `field continued pressing and a lovely move involving Rodden, Dailly and Chris McLaughlin saw young Nicky McLaughlin bullet a header narrowly wide. This would have capped off an impressive move however a couple of minutes later and Dailly was played through from midfield and as the `hill keeper advanced the Ashfield striker lashed the ball home to put the `field 2-0 up. Maryhill 0 Ashfield 2. The Maryhill team began to `find their feet` after this and there were some good tussles in Midfield however the `hill found the Ashfield defence in good form and chances were at a premium. A couple of corners and cross balls were well delivered into the Ashfield box but were well cleared apart from a far post effort which caused a `stramash` inside the Ashfield 6 yard box. On the half hour mark, the hill were given a lifeline after a rash tackle from Dean Leverage in the box resulting in a spot kick award. The resultant penalty crashed off the top of the bar and was well gathered by Ryan Dakhil before being fouled which then brought out a couple of bookings for both teams. To make matters worst for the `hill was Ashfield picking up a loose ball in the `hill half with the ball being controlled by Brad Rodden before despatching a magnificent left foot drive into the corner of the net to the delight of the Ashfield support. Maryhill 0 Ashfield 3. This capped off a fine first half display from the `field.
HT:- Maryhill 0 Ashfield 3
The second half started off at great pace however did not have the same intensity as the first with both teams cancelling out each other in midfield and this was followed by a succession of substitutes. The game ebbed and flowed for a while and Ashfield`s best attempts came more from long range and from the excellent crossing on the left hand side from Dean Leverage. Maryhill themselves made a number of alterations to their line up however were unable to test Ashfield`s young Keeper Reece McLean who came on after an hour replacing Dakhill `between the sticks`. As the Referee brought proceedings to a halt both teams will be delighted at getting back to playing again and from the `field`s point of view will be delighted at the win and some impressive individual displays.
FT:- Maryhill 0 Ashfield 3
Ashfield`s Team:- R Dakhill, J Barr, A Cairns, C Beedham, C Leverage (Capt), D Leverage, D Burns, C McLaughlin, B Rodden, N McLaughlin & B Dailly. Subs:- J Howat, A Byrne, D Maguire, S Doherty, J Crumlish, R McManus and R McLean
Attendance:- 100 Approx.
Man of the Match:- Ben Dailly
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Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 3 - Pre-Season Friendly - Saturday 12th June 2021 - 12 Noon - Springburn Park, Glasgow
Ashfield continued their Pre-Season preparation against our old friends from McKenna Park however this `friendly` turned out to be a rather feisty affair as both teams gave 110% but were not helped by some erratic refereeing which added to the player`s frustrations.
Another nice early afternoon of Sunshine ensured a punishing 90 minutes of Pre-Season workout and the crowd in attendance were treated to a very competitive game. It really was the proverbial game of two halves however both teams squandered good chances in both halves. Both teams started brightly and chances were initially at a premium before the `field began to get some joy down the flanks causing a couple of half chances for the lively Hepburn and Daily up front for Ashfield. The Ants foraged forward at every opportunity also and young Ben Quate in the Ashfield goal had to make an excellent save on the 20 minute mark blocking the 2nd effort with his legs. On the 25 minute mark Ashfield found themselves ahead courtesy of an error from Berhas in the Ants goal. A cross come shot from Ashfield`s Captain Colin Leverage saw the big Spanish Keeper gather the ball however took a step back and carried the ball over the line to put the `field 1-0 up. Ashfield 1 St Anthony`s 0. A couple of niggling fouls ensued with the Referee being kept busy as both teams were determined to make their mark. The `field were on top now and after a couple of corners managed to stretch their lead following a lovely move which saw the Ashfield striker Ben Daily pounce on a loose ball from 8 yards out to leave Berhas with no chance. Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 0. That was the Ashfield striker`s 4th goal in 3 games. As mentioned earlier there were a couple of niggling fouls which unfortunately developed into an altercation with one of the Ants players being substituted following an off the ball incident. As Referee blew for Half time the crowd knew the game was far from finished.
HT: - Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 0
The game continued at a fierce pace and the midfield area competitive. The Ants were looking livelier in the 2nd half and had the Ashfield back four working hard. On the hour mark, the `field made seven substitutes to look at different formations. Brad Rodden made an immediate impact and was spraying the ball well about the park. Baz Hepburn had a left foot drive saved by Berhas and another 20 yard effort which sailed just wide. Midway through the half however and the game turned on it`s head after a lovely move down the right from the Ants saw the ball driven low and hard past Ben Quate from a tight angle to bring the Ants right back in it. Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 1. Ashfield had a big appeal for a penalty with 12 minutes to go when Baz Hepburn was pushed to the ground however the Referee was having none of it and Baz was booked . Another penalty claim was waived aside before the Ants were awarded a spot-kick after some nice play on the edge of the box with 7 minutes to go The Ants Midfielder (No 6) who had an impressive game throughout drove the ball just out of Quate`s reach to bring the game level. Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 2. The game then swung from end to end with both teams searching for the winner and as the game went into injury time the Ants sealed it when the ball was played to the far post with the ball driven past the Ashfield Keeper to win the game for the Govan men. Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 3. The Ants were delighted , with the `field despairing at letting a 2-goal lead slip however it was a really good work out for both Teams in preparation for the Season start on 17th July 2021.
FT:- Ashfield 2 St Anthony`s 3
Ashfield`s Team:- B Quale, S Doherty, Trialist, A Cairns, C Leverage (Capt), D Leverage, C McLaughlin, J Howat, D Maguire, B Daily and B Hepburn. Subs:- C Beedham, D Burns, A Byrne, B Daly, B Rodden, J Crumlish, J Barr and R McManus
Attendance:- 80
Man of the Match:- S Doherty
Blantyre Vics 2 Ashfield 1, Pre-Season Friendly - KG Stadium, Blantyre - Wednesday 16th June 2021 - K.O. 6.45pm
An eagerly awaited Friendly at the KG Stadium, Blantyre with Ashfield looking to continue their preparations with a test against higher League opposition in the Vics. This was only the home side`s second Match of the Pre-Season following a visit to Broadwood last Saturday against Cumbernauld Colts. A lovely evening ensured a good turn out and the Match itself was excellent with the game swinging from end to end. The home side started the brightest and were working the flanks well however Sean Doherty was marshalling his defence extremely well and the visitors only scare was a tremendous effort from the Vics left winger who had his shot brilliantly tipped over the bar by Ryan Dakhill in the Ashfield goal. At the other end, Ashfield were looking really dangerous and the pace of Rodden and Daily was causing concerns in the home defence. A brilliant `double save` from the home keeper from Burns and Rodden kept the score level before the home keeper produced a brilliant stop on the half hour mark following a piledriver from Ben Daily which the Keeper managed to get a hand to it and divert around the post. Following a couple of corners, Ashfield defender John Barr managed to get his head to the ball and his looping header crashed off the bar and was cleared to safety. Both teams were having a `go` at each other as the Match swung from end to end in the latter period of the first half before the Referee brought proceedings to a halt. The crowd inside the ground waited with expectation as what the second half would bring as they `swatted` the midges which were prevalent throughout the balmy evening.
HT:- BLANTYRE VICS 0 ASHFIELD 0
Again it was the home side that started the brightest to the half and this time got their reward three minutes after the break following a lovely move down the right hand side which saw the ball cut back into the path of Sam McKenzie and the Vics Midfielder lashed the ball into the net despite the valiant attempt of Dakhill in the Ashfield Goal. Blantyre Vics 1 Ashfield 0. Ashfield struggled for the next 10 minutes as the home side upped the tempo and just as Ashfield thought they had `weathered the storm` an uncharacteristic mistake from Dakhill whilst playing the ball out from goal gave the Vics forwards the easy task of tapping the ball into the empty net. Blantyre Vics 2 Ashfield 0. After this point the `field dusted themselves down, made a couple of substitutes and went onto dominate the latter part of the Match, A header from Sean Doherty missed the post by inches before another couple of snap shots went over the bar. With 6 Minutes left on the clock a lovely move down the right saw Colin Leverage whip in a tremendous ball to the far post where an onrushing Brad Rodden bulleted the ball into the net the reduce the deficit. Blantyre Vics 2 Ashfield 1. Ashfield pushed forward at every opportunity and were rewarded with a free kick in the last minute on the edge of the box however the Vics Keeper `read` the flight of Ben Daily`s shot and held onto the ball comfortably. That was it - an excellent `work-out` for both teams and on this showing Blantyre and Ashfield can go into their next games with confidence,
FT:- BLANTYRE VICS 2 ASHFIELD 1
Ashfield`s Team:- R Dakhill, S Doherty (Capt), J Barr, A Cairns, A Byrne, B Daly, J Crumlish, D Burns, B Rodden, B Daily and B Hepburn. Subs:- B Quate, M McManus, D Maguire, D Leverage, C Leverage and J Marr.
Attendance:-170
Man of the Match:-Brad Rodden
St Roch`s 5 Ashfield 4, Saturday 19th June 2021 - Springburn Park, Glasgow - K.O. 12 Noon.
A really disappointing end to the Match from an Ashfield perspective as the young Team lost 2 goals in the final 2 minutes to lose the game from a winning position in what had been a terrific friendly for the sizeable crowd. Following a very hard and impressive 90 minutes in midweek against Blantyre Vics, the Ashfield Management Team made 7 changes to the line up bringing in 3 of Ashfield`s U20 Academy Team and a trialist Centre forward to line up alongside the prolific Ben Daily. As in most of the friendlies so far this season, the game started off at a terrific pace with both teams trying to get a strangehold early on however the opening exchanges were pretty even and it wasn`t until the half hour mark that the chances began to fall. Following a long throw in on the left hand side from St Roch`s the ball was played across goal finding the `Candy Rock` Centre forward who prodded the ball past Ben Quate to put St Roch`s ahead. St Roch`s 1 Ashfield 0. It didn`t however take much time for the `field, who had been working extremely hard, to level and the equaliser was an absolute screamer. Ben Daily picked up the ball fully 25 yards out before evading a couple of tackles and unleashing an unstoppable drive into the top corner of the net to the delight of the Ashfield bench and supporters. St Roch`s 1 Ashfield 1. The game now swung from end to end and Daily was foiled by the `Rock` Keeper when through on goal and this was followed up by a tremendous effort from an Ashfield `trialist who saw his 20 yard effort cannon back of the post before the `Candy` went ahead again courtesy of a penalty, with the young Ashfield defender getting on the wrong side of the St Roch`s striker, who stepped up and sent the Keeper the wrong way. St Roch`s 2 Ashfield 1. With 5 minutes to go in the half and it was `game on` again when Ben Daily broke clear of the Candy rearguard and drilled the ball low and hard under the keeper to level the scores. St Roch`s 2 Ashfield 2. Two minutes later and the Ashfield Striker completed his hat-trick this time placing a right foot shot past the advancing keeper who was left with no chance as Ashfield headed into the interval ahead. St Roch`s 2 Ashfield 3.
HT:- ST ROCH`S 2 ASHFIELD 3
Ashfield were determined to get a bigger lead and despite having a couple of efforts were unable to stretch the scoreline and as the half wore on with a number of substitutes being made from both sides it was the team in Green that made the next breakthrough with 20 minutes left on the clock, A lovely move on the right saw the ball played through to a St Roch`s striker who made room for himself before despatching a shot into the roof of the net leaving Ben Quate with no chance. St Roch`s 3 Ashfield 3. The `field however hit back shortly after in this `topsy turvy` Match it was Ben Daily again breaking through the Rock defence to drill the ball home for his 4th goal of the game. This had been striking of the highest quality from the Ashfield striker who has taken his tally to 8 in 5 games. St Roch`s 3 Ashfield 4. The game continued to swing from end to end and Mark McManus had a free-kick for the `field which went narrowly over as the clock ticked towards the 90th minute. As the `field support were looking at their watches the `Candy Rock`were given a lifeline with a throw in level with the Ashfield box. The throw-in caused a `stramash` in the Ashfield box before the ball broke to a green and white jersey and the ball was hooked into the net to the delight of the large St Roch`s support. St Roch`s 4 Ashfield 4. Before the `field had a chance to `dust themselves` down they were confronted by an onrushing St Roch`s player who drove into the box and was upended by an Ashfield defender with the Referee having no hesitation in pointing to the spot. The Ashfield players protested stating that the defender got a touch to the ball. Up stepped the Candy No 9 and he drove the ball straight down the middle to win the game for St Roch`s. St Roch`s 5 Ashfield 4. A sore one and a learning one for the young team however it is all about `game Management` and seeing out a game from a winning positon.
FT:- ST ROCH`S 5 ASHFIELD 4
Ashfield`s Team :- B Quate, C Leverage, J Marr, Trialist, Trialist, J Crumlish, B Hepburn, Trialist, B Dale, Trialist, Trialist and B Daily. Subs:- A Cairns, J Howat, Trialist, R Dakhill, McManus.
Attendance:- 158
Man of the Match:- B Daily
Ardrossan Winton Rovers 2 Ashfield 0 - Pre-Season Friendly - Saturday 10th July 2021 - Kick-Off 2pm
Both teams entered the lush pitch at Winton Park looking to `finely tune` their preparations ahead of next week`s opening Conference League Fixtures against Vale of Leven and Glasgow United respectively and the good sized Crowd were certainly treated to a competitive Match in the glorious Ayrshire sunshine. Some `old acquaintances` were met Pre-Match and it was good to see Ex-Ashfield Captain Kyle Lochhead marshalling his new troops at Ardrossan. The Match itself started off at great pace with the Ashfield front two of McManus and Daily looking extremely lively. The `field were certainly having the best of the opening exchanges however as sometimes happens it was the home side who took the lead with their first serious foray up the park. Jack Crumlish was guilty of a late tackle 22 yards out and up stepped the Ex-Ashfield player Lochhead who lashed the ball around the wall and into the far corner of the net to the delight of the home support. A tremendous effort leaving MacGuire in the Ashfield Goal with no chance. Ardrossan W.R. 1 Ashfield 0. Ashfield sprung into action and a lovely move saw Darren Burns break free of the Ardrossan rearguard only to see his lob gathered well by the Rovers Keeper. Next up for Ashfield as they pursued an equaliser was a lovely one-two on the edge of the box which saw Brogan Daly drive a left foot shot inches past the post with the Keeper beaten. This was Ashfield`s best part of the Match now and a sweeping move down the right hand side started by Ryan McManus saw Colin Leverage drive the ball across the box to an onrushing Ben Daily however the ball took a bump and the prolific Ashfield striker did not make proper contact with the Rovers Keeper pushing the ball away for a corner. The sun was draining and following an injury to a Rovers player who unfortunately had to be stretchered off - we wish him well - a must needed drinks break was had. The `field struggled after that to keep the pressure up and it was the home side who finished off the stronger side with a succession of corners and a volley which the new Ashfield Keeper Thomas McGuire did well to block.
HT:- ARDROSSAN W.R. 1 ASHFIELD 0
There was only one change to either side initially as both teams tried to take control. It was beginning to become a bit of a midfield tussle and chances were at a premium for the first 15 minutes of the half. The Referee was also kept bust with a number of crunching tackles and a quick `melee` to deal with however things settled down after that. The home side then began to have some joy down the right hand side and in the 66th Minute reaped their reward following another free-kick. A wicked curling ball in-between the back four and the Ashfield Keeper saw a Rovers Midfielder `ghost` in at the far post to place his header out of the reach of McGuire to put the home side further ahead. Ardrossan W.R. 2 Ashfield 0. This was a real blow for Ashfield as they made positive substitutions to try and claw their way back into the Match bringing on Dean Leverage and young Nicky McLaughlin who`s pace immediately caused the Rovers back four a problem however the young winger didn`t last too long and unfortunately picked up an ankle knock and was replaced by a Trialist. As the `field pushed forward they began to get hit on the break by an organised Ardrossan team who kept their shape well throughout the 90 minutes and a couple of last ditch tackles prevented the scoreline increasing and it was the `field who were delighted to hear the final whistle. It was a great work-out for both teams and the `field must take all of the positives from their last 7 Friendlies, scoring an average of 3 a game, into next week`s Conference B encounter with Glasgow United (Shettleston) at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium - KO 2pm.
FT:- ARDROSSAN W R 2 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield`s Team:- T MacGuire, J Barr, B Daly, S Doherty, J Marr, C Leveridge, M McManus, R McManus, B Daily, D Burns and J Crumlish. Subs:- N McLaughlin, A Cairns, C Beedham, D Leverage, Trialist and R McLean.
Man of the Match:- Thomas MacGuire
Attendance:- 174
Ashfield 3 Glasgow United 3, West of Scotland Football League Conference B - Saturday 17th July 2021 - Kick-Off 2pm - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium
With the Pre-Season training and games all complete the `field welcomed Glasgow United for the first time in many years. The visitors have been in existence since 1903 however made the decision during the close season break to rename from Shettleston to Glasgow United. This was an eagerly awaited Match and both teams entered the Saracen Park turf in the sweltering heat in their traditional strips and the good sized crowd were treated to an exciting Match albeit an `emotional rollercoaster` as the pendulum swung from one side to another right until the last kick of the ball.
As the opening exchanges proved, both sides were determined to start their season off with a victory and despite a lively start chances were at a premium due to the competitiveness in the Midfield area and the number of stops. In the 14th Minute this all changed when the visitors went ahead. United were given a free-kick fully 25 yards out and up stepped No 7 Steffan Graham who curled the ball into the corner of the net despite the attempt of the Ashfield Keeper. Ashfield 0 Glasgow United 1. The `field had to dust themselves down and get back into the Match however within a minute were 2-0 down and the source was from the same format as the first. Glasgow United received a free-kick 22 yards out to the right of the Ashfield box, up stepped Steffan Graham and this time he whipped the ball over the wall and right into the corner of the net leaving Thomas McGuire in the Ashfield goal with no chance. The celebrations from the United team knew that this was a `big start` for them and the `field were up against it now. Ashfield 0 Glasgow United 2.
The home side began to make inroads and started utilising the flanks well with Baz Hepburn and Colin Leverage trying the link in with the front two. The `field began to exert some pressure backed by a strong wind and almost pulled a goal back following another free-kick. Brogan Daly took the award and his left foot curler missed the upright by inches. Shortly after and the `field reduced the deficit in the 27th minute following a defensive mix up in the United defence. Ben Daily was applying pressure to the United back four and the ball was played out to the side of the park by the Keeper however Baz Hepburn picked the ball up before it ran out for a throw-in and lofted the ball from fully 25 yards over the United Keeper and into the far corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Glasgow United 2. It was `game on` now and the `field saw their chance to get back into the game and forced the play right up until half time however had to be careful as the visitors broke quickly and a couple of breakaways caused alarm in the `field box. As the fans looked at their watches for Half time, the `field conjured up an equaliser following a corner on the right hand side. Baz Hepburn drove the ball into the box and found the head of John Barr and his powerful header was saved by the United Keeper however the ball broke out to Darren Burns who made space for himself and drove the ball in through a ruck of players. Ashfield 2 Glasgow United 2. The home support were delighted and as the Referee blew for half time the expectant support knew that this Match had a few twists and turns left in it.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 GLASGOW UNITED 2
The temperature gauge was tipping 80f at the start of the Second Half and it was certainly going to be a grueling half in the heat as both teams started in the same determined fashion. The game was never far away from `boiling point` and a couple of altercations kept the Referee busy in the early stages of the half. That man Steffan Graham again drove a free-kick, this time backed by a strong wind, from 25 yards out with the ball missing the bar by inches. Ryan McManus was beginning to look like himself again following injury and a lovely move saw the ball played through to Ben Daily on the edge of the box, with the Ashfield Centre Forward`s driven effort brilliantly palmed to safety by the United Keeper. Ashfield began to exert pressure and in the 65th minute got their rewards following a sweeping move down the right. Ben Daily drove at the United defence and his driven cross was back-heeled into the net by Ryan McManus to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 3 Glasgow United 2. What a tremendous comeback from the `field however this was almost undone a couple of minutes later when the ball bobbled about the Ashfield box only to see the ball come back off the far post with the resultant driven effort into the side netting to the relief of the`field. Both teams made a number of substitutes in the sweltering heat as the game ebbed and flowed .
As the game approached the 90th Minute, the visitors were awarded another free-kick again around 25 yards out. Yes, up stepped Graham again and his net-bound free-kick was brilliantly tipped round the post by McGuire in the Ashfield goal. It was last chance now for the the visitors as the corner was played in with the ball only being partially cleared and after one block it was Josh McCulloch who lashed the ball into the roof of the net to the delight of the travelling support. A real blow for Ashfield as the players sank to the ground. Ashfield 3 Glasgow United 3. The Referee just had time to centre the ball before bringing proceedings to a close as both teams got their breaths back. A sore one for the `field to lose a goal so late but credit to United for pressing right up until injury time. The `field will `dust themselves` down and prepare now for their trip to Cambuslang Rangers next Saturday.
FT:- ASHFIELD 3 GLASGOW UNITED 3
Ashfield`s Team: - T MacGuire, C Leverage, B Daly, A Cairns, J Barr, J Howat, B Hepburn, A Byrne, B Daily, R McManus and D Burns. Subs:- N McLaughlin, M McManus, B Quate (GK), A Marenghi, D Leverage, J Marr
Attendance:- 89
Man of the Match:- Darren Burns
Cambuslang Rangers 2 Ashfield 0- Somervell Park, Cambuslang - K.O. 2pm - Saturday 24th July 2021 - West of Scotland Football League - Conference B
The excellent weather continued as both teams warmed up in the scorching sunshine at Somervell Park ahead of this eagerly awaited League Match. The visitors were sporting for the first time, their new 135th Anniversary strip with the home side in their traditional blue. The healthy crowd poured into this traditional Football ground as both teams set off at great pace with neither team giving `an inch` in the opening exchanges. Sean Doherty at the back for Ashfield and John Gemmell at the back for Cambuslang were prominent figures in the early stages winning their fair share of headers and possession. Ashfield, playing in a 4-3-3 formation, were keen to get the wide players into the game and from a Cambuslang attack in the 15th minute broke well with Darren Burns playing in Sean Maguire on the left hand side. The Ashfield forward quickly reverse passed the ball into the path of Ben Daily who went through one on one with the Rangers Keeper. Unfortunately for the visitors the Ashfield striker`s effort was blocked by the advancing keeper. A big chance for the `field and they were made to rue that miss 5 minutes later when young Ben Quate in the Ashfield goal let a passback from Brogan Daly slip under his foot and the ball trickled into the net to the anguish of the Ashfield support. A bizarre goal in what had been Ben`s first involvement and the Ashfield Under 20`s Keeper was distraught. Cambuslang Rangers 1 Ashfield 0. The home side seized on the opporunity that the `field Keeper might be feeling the after effects of the goal and had a terrific 25 yard effort which bounced up before reaching the Ashfield Keeper. Quate managed to deal with the bounce and diverted it onto the bar and over for a Rangers corner. The home side put the visitors under a bit of pressure for the next 10 minutes however Sean Doherty`s well marshalled defence dealt well with it and it was Ashfield that finished the stronger side with a succession of corners before the half time whistle.
HT:- CAMBUSLANG RANGERS 1 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield made a couple of changes at the start of the second half, changing their formation to a 3-4-3 bringing on Chris McLaughlin and Alan Cairns and the match started off at a great pace again despite the enormous heat. It was the home side that started to carve the chances and the `field got a warning when a lovely move saw Williamson break through to slot it past Quate however the Referee blew for offside. Shortly after and Ashfield did find themselves further behind as the ball was lofted over the back four to find an onrushing Williamson again and the Rangers forward drove the ball under the advancing Quate to put the home side 2-0 up. Cambuslang Rangers 2 Ashfield 0. A real blow for Ashfield however they still had time in their hands as they set about trying to get themselves back in the game. Chris McLaughlin was offering a steady influence in the middle of park and after some good passing play from the visitors it was McLaughlin who curled the ball inches over the bar from 20 yards out followed by another shot from Baz Hepburn which the Keeper tipped over. As the Referee enforced another water break, the home side almost increased their lead further with a couple of efforts which went over the bar however as the clock began to tick down it was the `field that had a glorious chance on the 86th minute which would have ensured a grandstand finish after Ben Daily drove at the Rangers defence cutting in before playing the ball across the box and with the goal gaping Jack Crumlish, who had been one of Ashfield`s top performers today, drove his effort past the post. As Referee brought proceedings to a close shortly after
the home side were delighted with the result following their 5-1 win in Midweek. The `field will `dust themselves` down for a midweek home fixture against high flying Greenock knowing that they will need to be more clinical with their chances when presented.
FT:- CAMBUSLANG RANGERS 2 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield`s Team:- B Quate, C Leverage, B Daly, J Marr, S Doherty, J Crumlish, B Hepburn, S Macguire, B Daily, D Burns and A Byrne.Subs:- A Cairns, T McGuire, R McManus, D Leverage, J Howat, C McLaughlin and J Barr
Attendance:- 181
Man of the Match:- Jack Crumlish ran this week`s winner close however Sean Doherty was immense in the first half and nudges the award.
Ashfield 4 Greenock 4 - West of Scotland League Conference B - Wednesday 28th July 2021 - KO 7.30pm - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium, Glasgow .
The continual summer weather was beginning to `take its toll` on the look of the pitches and it was fair to say that there were more patches of light brown than green on Saracen Park however it did not affect the game in any way as both these teams served up a feast of football last night and it was a shame that there was not a full house in to see it as both teams produced some excellent football and some terrific goals, this coupled with some erratic refereeing and it certainly made for an interesting evening`s entertainment. Where do we start ? Ashfield welcomed back their full strike force back following injury and suspension and certainly give the Greenock rearguard probably their hardest 90 minutes so far of an impressive opening to their season. Ashfield started off on the front foot but were fully aware of the potent strike force of Greenock and the guile and strength of their Midfield area. The Referee upset the Ashfield support as early as 20 seconds as he awarded a very soft foul on the edge of the box to the visitors however Ryan Dakhill back in goals for the `field was delighted to see the effort go narrowly over. Brad Rodden was back from suspension following his ordering off at the Penny Cars Stadium last Season v Glasgow University and certainly `caught the eye` in the early stages with his his pace and non-stop running which brought so many other players into the game and after a bright opening for the home side, they got their reward on the 12th minute. Chris McLaughlin was having an excellent Match in Midfield for the `field and was linking up well with his team mates & Ben Daily who was also looking lively picked the ball up midway inside the Greenock half and after evading a couple of tackles drove the ball into the far corner of the net from 25 yards to the delight of the home support. An excellent strike from the Ashfield Centre. Ashfield 1 Greenock 0. The visitors were sprung into action and drove at the `field defence and McLaughlin of Ashfield was the first player in the book for a tug of the jersey. The `field had to withstand a couple of free kicks again which on the whole were well defended however on the 25th minute the Greenock Centre managed to drift away from his marker and his net-bound header was brilliantly palmed to safety by Ryan Dakhill. The visitors were made to pay for this miss as shortly after Ben Daily found room on the left hand side and drove at the `nock defence before driving the ball low and hard across the box for an onrushing Brad Rodden, who lashed the ball into the net to the delight of the Ashfield support. Ashfield 2 Greenock 0. It was end to end stuff now following the goal with Ashfield trying to put the game `to bed` whereas the visitors were desperate to pull a goal back and in the 41st minute they did just that albeit in controversial circumstances. A free-kick to the far post saw Ryan Dakhill collide with James Mark with the ball breaking to Adam Houlihan who drove the ball into the back of the net to bring the Renfrewshire outfit back in the game. Ashfield 2 Greenock 1. The `field appealed in vain for a foul on the Keeper and the Referee brought proceedings shortly after to a halt and the half time interval.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 GREENOCK 1
The half time refreshments were going down well from the `Ashfield Cafe` as the game restarted and it was much the same with the visitors having the slight edge due to the long throwing expert of their No 3. This initially caused Ashfield problems however as the Ashfield Keeper Dakhill got his eye in then the `field managed to cope better. It appeared that the visitors would be the team most likely to make the breakthrough in the 2nd however a lovely move on the right flank saw the ball break to Ryan McManus and as he did in the last home game prodded the ball home from close range. Ashfield 3 Greenock 1. The visitors flooded forward at every opportunity in order to salvage the game and after a series of thrown-ins and corners they got their reward in the 65th minute as the ball was played to the far post the ball was volleyed through a ruck of players and into the net. It was `game on` again`. Ashfield 3 Greenock 2. Surely the `field would not let another lead slip following the anguish of their last home game however with 15 minutes to go that is what happened and it was a carbon copy of the 2nd goal with the ball being driven through a ruck of players and into the net. Ashfield 3 Greenock 3. This time Ashfield set about searching for the winner and following a couple of changes in personnel managed to get their noses ahead again. Ben Daily again picked the ball up on the left flank before cutting in and drilling the ball past the `nock Keeper with the aid of a bounce to the roar from the Main Stand at Saracen Park. Ashfield 4 Greenock 3. Another great goal Ben and I am sure that tally will be added to as the Season unfolds. There was still 10 minutes to go and the visitors through caution to the wind in a bid to snatch a point and the Match was really competitve in Midfield with the Referee brandishing Cards on a regular basis. On the 89th Minute the visitors were awarded a free-kick 22 yards out. The Ashfield wall looked ok however it was unable to block Dylan McLaughlin`s curling shot into the corner of the net to deny Ashfield their first victory in the League this Season however it was probably merited as the `nock fought back on three occasions. Ashfield 4 Greenock 4. Chris McLaughlin`s last minute 2nd booking for kicking the ball away failed to dampen the spirits on what had been a decent performance from himself and from the Ashfield Team against a good Greenock outfit. It`s back down to Ayrshire this Saturday (31/07/2021) and a visit to Merksworth Park, Dalry for the first time in many years.
FT:- ASHFIELD 4 GREENOCK 4
Ashfield`s Team:- R Dakhill, J Barr, A Byrne, J Marr, S Doherty, J Crumlish, B Rodden, J Howat, B Daily, C McLaughlin and Ryan McManus
Subs:- D Macguire, A Cairns, C Leverage, D Leverage, B Daly, D Burns, B Hepburn, C Beedham, N McLaughlin and B Quate
Man of the Match:- A few candidates in the Black and White Hoops. Brad Rodden had an outstanding first half however for the full 90 minutes Ben Daily wins the Man of the Match scoring two terrific goals.
Attendance:- 65
Dalry Thistle 2 Ashfield 10 - West of Scotland Football League Conference B, Merksworth Park, Dalry, Ayrshire - 2pm k.o.
Ashfield headed down to Dalry for the first time since 2007/08 Season when a last minute equaliser by the current Ashfield Manager, Paul Maxwell ensured a share of the spoils in a 3-3 thriller. As the crowd drifted in to the neat and tidy surroundings of Merksworth Park, no one could have predicted the final scoreline although the `field`s overall play so far in the League had merited more than the 2 points from 3 games gained losing 2 late goals to deny them victory in their 2 home games. The North Glasgow outfit were sporting again their 135 year old Centenary Strip with the home side wearing all red as the Referee let proceedings begin and it was the visitors who for the first 10 minutes, and shooting down the slight slope, took control and after a couple of narrow escapes managed to get their noses ahead in the 7th minute following a lovely through ball from John Barr. Brad Rodden was first to react however was closed quickly by the last defender and Keeper however managed to get a touch to guide the ball into the corner of the net to put the `field 1-0 up. Dalry Thistle 0 Ashfield 1. The visitors continued to test the Thistle back four and the Keeper had to produce another excellent save to deny Rodden again. The home side then began to come into the game and their Midfield were beginning to show some promising signs. Ashfield got a warning on the 15 minute mark when Thistle were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box however the effort was blocked and cleared to safety however only 2 minutes later and the game was all-square. A lovely through ball from the impressive Thistle No 7 Ashe saw Mugwanda break clear of his marker only to see his effort brilliantly blocked by Dakhill in the Ashfield goal. The ball broke out and was gathered again by the Thistle Centre who took his time before lashing the ball into the net from 18 yards to the delight of the home support. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 1. This goal gave Ashfield a jolt especially after their bright opening however within 10 minutes were ahead again. Again a lovely ball through to Rodden on the right hand flank by John Barr saw the Ashfield Forward glide past his marker and as he raced in on goal drove the ball low and hard past the advancing keeper to put the `field ahead again. An excellent finish. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 2. Brad Rodden wasn`t stopping there as within 2 minutes he picked up a cross ball on the other flank before evading a couple of tackles and lashed the ball into the roof of the net from 18 yards out to complete his hat-trick. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 3. The home side rocked for a while and despite pushing forward at every opportunity to get back in the game it was Ashfield that continued to break with pace and purpose and on the 35th minute Ben Daily picked the ball up midway inside the Thistle half before driving at the home defence and unleashing a 25 yard effort which sailed into the top corner of the net leaving King in the home goal helpless. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 4. The home side were now struggling with the pressure from the visitors and just on the stroke of half time, Ashfield were awarded a free-kick on the right hand side. Brad Rodden whipped the ball in to the 6 yard box however a home defender seemed to divert the ball into his own net before the Keeper could gather the ball to put the `field 5-1 up at Half time. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 5.
HT:- DALRY THISTLE 1 ASHFIELD 5
The home side had a lot to contemplate as they started the second half off with neither teams making any changes. Dalry were keen to put the `field under pressure in the second half however the visitors had other ideas and within 2 minutes of the restart Brad Rodden picked the ball up on the edge of box on the right hand side before cutting in and drilling a left foot shot in at the post to the delight of the travelling support. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 6. The pressure continued and after a succession of dangerous corners the ball was played across the 6 yard box for an onrushing Darren Burns who made no mistake for his 2nd Goal of the Season. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 7. There was no rest-bite for the home side despite a water break in the scorching sunshine as it was Ashfield, after making a number of substitutes, that continued to put pressure on the Thistle back four. A further corner was delivered by Brad Rodden and this time the ball was met by the Ashfield Captain Sean Doherty who bulleted a header past the Thistle Keeper for No 8. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 8. Colin Leverage who came on for the injured John Barr was having a lot of success down the right hand side and from this area a floated ball was played to the far post for an onrushing Baz Hepburn to guide to ball into the net despite the close attention of the Thistle defenders. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 9. Ashfield were in no mood to let up and Ben Daily was brought down 22 yards out with the Referee having no hesitation in awarding the free-kick. Baz Hepburn stepped up and placed the ball into the bottom corner of the net to ensure the visitors had reached double figures. Dalry Thistle 1 Ashfield 10. It had been a long afternoon for the home side however they never stopped playing Football and the Ashfield back four had to be on their toes throughout the 90 minutes. This was highlighted by a wicked curling corner in the 89th Minute which caught out Jonny Howat and Ryan Dakill at the front post as the ball ended up in the net. Dalry Thistle 2 Ashfield 10. Shortly after the Referee brought proceedings to a close and the `field headed back up the B737 delighted with their performance and goal tally.
This was the first time Ashfield had scored 10 since a Scottish Junior Cup 2nd Round tie in 2008 against Whitehills (10-0) however we have to go away back to 2004/05 Season for the `field`s last 10 goal haul away from home and that came in the Central League Division 2 at Coltness United (Newmains). Prior to that Ashfield also scored 10 in the Scottish Junior Cup 2nd Round in 1990 away at Scone Thistle (10-0) and in the Scottish Junior Cup 1st Round in 1952 away at Whitletts Victoria.
FT:- DALRY THISTLE 2 ASHFIELD 10
Ashfield`s Team:- R Dakhill, J Barr, D Leverage, J Marr, S Doherty, D Burns, B Hepburn, R McManus, B Daily, D Maguire and B Rodden. Subs:- C Leverage, A Cairns, T MacGuire (GK), J Howat, C McLaughlin, J Crumlish, A Byrne and M McManus
Man of the Match:- Fantastic Team performance form the `field with everyone on top form however Brad Rodden was simply unplayable at times today scoring and linking up with his fellow forwards.
Attendance:-78
Kello Rovers 2 Ashfield 3 , Nithsdale Park, Kirkconnel, Dumfriesshire - West of Scotland Football League - Conference B - Kick-Off 7.30pm
Ashfield made their first trip down to Kirkconnel for over 50 years and put in a real workmanlike performance to come back up to North Glasgow with a vital 3 points. The `field buoyed by their tremendous display at Dalry last Saturday made one change to the Team with Colin Leverage coming in for Baz Hepburn as the visitors , sporting their away strip of Red and Grey, started the game on the front foot. As the crowd were still coming into the ground the `field carved an early opportunity which was blocked for a corner. Daily and Rodden were utilising their pace well in the early stages and the home side were having to work hard to keep the visitors at bay. On the 14th minute, the `field made the breakthrough courtesy of a wonderful goal from Sean Doherty. Ashfield were awarded a corner at the far corner and a lovely curling delivery from Rodden found an onrushing Doherty who bulleted his header into the net to the delight of the travelling support. Kello Rovers 0 Ashfield 1. A great start for the visitors and more was to come shortly after. Kello were forcing the game at every opportunity also and were utilising the flanks well however were struggling to find their Centre forward and as such Dakhill in the Ashfield Goal was kept quiet in the early stages. Another move carved out of Ben Daily`s pace saw the Ashfield Centre break clear on the right and both McManus and Rodden narrowly missed getting the final touch. Rodden was up next and a weaving run on the right saw him drive into the box only to see his shot cannon off the base of the post and was cleared to safety. It wasn`t long before the `field increased their lead and Ryan McManus does what he does well and picked up a loose ball in the box and after evading a couple of tackles drilled the ball low and hard into the net. Kello Rovers 0 Ashfield 2. The home side knew they had to stop the way the game was going and rolled up their sleeves and started to make inroads into the Ashfield back four. A number of corners were won however were dealt well by the Ashfield defence and chances were at a premium. As the half headed towards the interval the Referee was kept busy with some hard tackling however as the clock approached the 45th minute the game turned on its head following a long clearance by a Kello defender. The Rovers No 9 went up for the ball and the Referee deemed that the advancing Ashfield Keeper had infringed and pointed to the spot. The home side sent Dakhill the wrong way from 12 yards to pull a goal back and it was `game on`. Kello Rovers 1 Ashfield 2. The `field would have been disappointed only going in 1 goal ahead at the interval with everything to play for in the Second half.
HT:- KELLO ROVERS 1 ASHFIELD 2
The home side were buoyed by their late first half goal and were the better team in the first 15 minutes of the half testing the Ashfield back four at every opportunity however were up against a defence playing well with Doherty commanding in the air and Barr and Marr holding onto possession . Even although the home side were pressurising, chances were still not prevalent and Dakhill on the whole was kept remarkably quiet. The `field did not have the same cohesion going forward and a couple of substitutes were made to try and win the Midfield area. Daily was really unlucky on a couple of occasions with narrow offside decisions not going the way of the Ashfield Centre. With 20 minutes to go the game changed and the move started with Ashfield attacking. The ball was lost in the Rovers half and a lovely diagonal ball was played to the Kello No 9 on the left flank. The Rovers forward drove forward evading a last ditch tackle and as Ryan Dakhill in the Ashfield Goal advanced the forward drilled the ball into the far corner of the net to the roar of the home support. Kello Rovers 2 Ashfield 2. A blow for the `field as they were quite comfortable at that stage however the goal rocked them and they set about trying to get ahead again and within 5 minutes did that. The `field earned a number of corners with one of them bouncing off a couple of players before reaching John Barr on the edge of the six yard box and with quick feet, the Ashfield defender lashed the ball through a ruck of players and in off the post to put the `field ahead again. Kello Rovers 2 Ashfield 3. The home side threw everything at Ashfield in the last 10 minutes with the Rovers being slightly guilty of overplaying the long ball which more often than not was dealt with by Doherty and Barr in the heart of the Ashfield defence. The Referee played an additional 6 minutes of injury time before the `field could celebrate a terrific three points at a difficult venue.
The Matches are coming quickly and Ashfield welcome high flying Ardeer Thistle on Saturday (7th). Please note due to a Glasgow Tigers Speedway event, this Match has been switched to Lochburn Park, home of Maryhill with a 2pm Kick-Off.
FT:- KELLO ROVERS 2 ASHFIELD 3
Ashfield`s Team:- R Dakhill, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Marr, J Barr, S Doherty, D Macguire, D Burns, B Daily, R McManus and B Rodden. Subs:- T MacGuire (GK), J Crumlish, A Cairns, J Howat, N McLaughlin and M McManus
Man of the Match:- Some good performances in a tough encounter this evening, however Sean Doherty led by example, scoring the first goal and winning most 50/50 balls throughout the evening.
Attendance:- 100
Ashfield 1 Ardeer Thistle 1, Lochburn Park, Maryhill - West of Scotland League Conference B, Saturday 7th August 2021 - Kick Off 2pm.
This was an eagerly awaited Match between two teams in a rich vein on form with Ardeer Thistle sitting proudly at the top of Conference B. The Match was switched to Lochburn Park, Maryhill due to a Glasgow Tigers Speedway Event at the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium however it is always an enjoyable ground to watch a Match. Ardeer, backed by a large and vociferous crowd entered the Lochburn pitch sporting their all Red strip with the `field in their traditional Black & White hoops and straight from the kick-off both teams set their stall out to play fast attacking Football. Ashfield were enforced to make 4 changes to the team who won down at Kirkconnel in midweek and were playing in a 4-3-3 formation with the front three looking to carry on there they left off. Ashfield started brightly however were hit on the break a couple of times with the pace of the front two of Ardeer and in particular the No 9 Ryan Wilson was certainly catching the eye and in 12 minutes the visitors went ahead. The goal started from an Ashfield attack however the ball was lost and played through to Wilson who used his pace running at the Ashfield back four and from 18 yards out managed to get a shot away which unfortunately McGuire failed to hold and the ball went in off the far post to put Thistle ahead. Ashfield 0 Ardeer Thistle 1. An early blow for the `field however they recovered well and started to find their feet after 20 minutes following a number of corners. A couple of half efforts were well gathered by the impressive Thistle Goalkeeper and the `field got another warning in the 22nd minute when the Thistle No 6 found room on the edge of the box and despatched a left foot drive inches past McGuire`s post. The Ashfield front three had found it difficult to hold up the play and were guilty of being caught offside by a well marshalled defence however on the half hour mark, the `field should have been level. A lovely move involving Darren Burns and Ryan McManus saw the latter make room for himself on the edge of the box and he curled a right foot shot past the Thistle Keeper only to see the ball cannon back off the post to the anguish of the home support. Next up was a tremendous volley from McLaughlin which missed the crossbar by inches and then a moment of controversy when Ashfield were denied from our angle a stonewall penalty. Darren Burns again played the ball through to Ryan McManus and as the Ashfield forward got ahead of his marker was brought down. The Referee decided to bring back play for a foul on Burns to the dismay of the home support. The game ebbed and flowed from one end to another with the home side going onto hit woodwork again following a corner which saw Jonny Howat`s header cannon back off the crossbar and as the Referee brought proceeding to a close the Crowd knew they were in for another pulsating 45 minutes.
HT:- ASHFIELD 0 ARDEER THISTLE 1
If the first half was `all action`, the second half did not disappoint however this time the home side took more of a grip of proceedings and taking in all their efforts in the second period were unlucky not to take all three points. However they had to work so hard against a very good Ardeer side. Ashfield did have a lot of pressure however it really was not until the last 20 minutes of the Match that the chances began to happen. Another penalty shout was waved away by the Referee for Ashfield however on the 66th Minute another major talking point was the awarding of a penalty to the visitors with firstly no real appeals from Thistle players however the Referee deemed that James Marr infringed a Thistle player and up stepped the Ardeer No 3, who had been impressive throughout, however to the frustrations of the travelling support he drove the ball wide from 12 yards out. As the clock ticked down towards the last 10 minutes, Ashfield finally got their equaliser and an excellent goal it was. Nicky McLaughlin picked up the ball inside the Thistle half, finding Darren Burns whose dipping cross found Ryan McManus at the edge of the box and the Ashfield striker took one touch before clipping the ball into the top corner of the net to the delight of the home support. A really good finish and had to be to beat the Thistle Keeper. Ashfield 1 Ardeer Thistle 1. Baz Hepburn came on as substitute and made an immediate impact, firstly clipping a free kick narrowly over however with 5 minutes to go Baz broke down the left and after evading a couple of tackles played the ball into the 6 yard box finding Ben Daily who somehow missed the target by inches. As the game went into injury time, Baz Hepburn again picked the ball up midway inside the Thistle half and again started on one of his mazy runs and as he reached the edge of the box let fly with a dipping shot which crashed off the bar as the Ashfield support held their heads. A minute later and the Referee brought the Match to a close. A terrific match was had between two determined and skilful teams and on this display it could be a good season for both if they can maintain this standard. The `field will be slightly disappointed at not picking up full points however were behind for over an hour and survived a penalty scare . The games are coming thick and fast and both teams will have to recuperate ahead of important fixtures against Renfrew and Cambuslang Rangers respectively.
FT:- ASHFIELD 1 ARDEER THISTLE 1
Ashfield`s Team:- T McGuire, C Leverage, B Daly, J Marr, S Doherty, D Burns, B Rodden, C McLaughlin, B Daily, J Howat and R McManus Subs:- B Quale, N McLaughlin, A Byrne, B Hepburn, and M McManus.
Man of the Match:- There were some tremendous individual performances from Ashfield today infact there was not a failure at all and the substitutes also made a huge impact to the game however Ryan McManus held the ball up extremely well today bringing his colleagues into the game and capped his display off with a wonderful effort into the top left hand corner.
Attendance:- 100
Goals from today`s game on attached:- https://youtu.be/FcgoYnBTFpE
Many thanks to Davie Brown
Ashfield 6 Newmains United 2 , Saturday 14th August 2021 - 2pm - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium, Glasgow. West of Scotland League Conference B
The dust had settled and the `post mortem` had been carried out following the `field`s uncharacteristic collapse in the second half at Renfrew last Wednesday as the Management Team`shuffled` around the pack. The start of the Season has been`full on` with every team playing Saturday/Wednesday since the 17th July and as such this is where a strong squad comes into play. As the teams entered the pitch to initially heavy rain, which cleared, the `field knew this was an important game and started the Match against a determined Newmains Team who were looking to get more points on the board with the goal-scoring stalwart Kris Jarvie leading the line up front for them. It was the home side however who forced the early pace and the Newmains Keeper was in top form saving at least three net-bound efforts and it wasn`t until the 26th Minute before Ashfield got their `noses` in front. Ashfield were `shooting down`to the Springburn end in the first half and the swirling wind was not helping either team however the breakthrough came from a long throw in from Brad Rodden on the left hand side with Sean Doherty rising above the advancing Keeper to nod the ball over his head and into the net to put the `field ahead. Ashfield 1 Newmains Utd 0. It was one way traffic at this stage with Rodden and McManus linking up well and within 10 minutes the `field went further ahead. Again a long throw-in from Brad Rodden this time on the right clearly hit the Newmains defender`s hand in the box with the Referee having no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Brad Rodden stepped and lashed the Penalty into the roof of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 2 Newmains Utd 0. This goal seemed to galvanise the visitors and a number of attacking moves almost brought success , one in particular bringing out a tremendous one handed save from McGuire in the Ashfield goal however Newmains were not to be denied and 4 minutes before half time a low shot was saved by the Ashfield Keeper however he failed to hold onto the shot and as a `stramash` ensued Mark Fitzpatrick drilled the loose ball into the corner of the net to reduce the deficit. Ashfield 2 Newmains Utd 1. It was `game on `now and as the Referee brought proceedings to a close shortly after with the `field knowing they would have to work extremely hard in the second half.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 NEWMAINS UTD 1
The home side started the half well with Chris McLaughlin linking up well with the front two and also Baz Hepburn was beginning to get some joy down the left hand side delivering a number of crosses into the box. Newmains were also pushing forward at every opportunity with the `field having a scare on the hour mark with the ball being cleared off the line following a corner however it was from a Newmains attack that the home side increased their lead. After breaking a Newmains attack down Chris McLaughlin played a lovely through ball to Brad Rodden who evaded the tight offside trap which the visitors had been adopting and drove in on goal glidding past the Newmains Keeper and drilling the ball into the net from a narrow angle. An excellent finish. Ashfield 3 Newmains United 1. The game then swung from end to end and after picking up a loose ball on the edge of the box, a Newmains midfielder lashed the ball goalwards only to see it crash down off the underside of the bar as the ball was cleared to safety. Shortly after and it was `game over`. Chris McLaughlin picked up the ball just inside the Newmains half and after evading a number of tackles cut in and made room for himself before despatching a low shot in at the Keepers near post to the delight of the Players, fans and Management. An excellent solo goal Chris. Ashfield 4 Newmains United 1. Ashfield began to turn on the style and after making a couple of substitutes went further ahead following the introduction of the pacey youngster Nicky McLaughlin. The young winger picked up a through ball with 10 minutes to go and as the Newmains Keeper advanced he placed the ball underneath him and into the net for his first Ashfield goal. Ashfield 5 Newmains Utd 1. The home support were still celebrating when the visitors from kick-off broke down the right hand side before Jamie Henderson drilled a 22 yard shot into the far corner of McGuire`s net to reduce the deficit. Ashfield 5 Newmains United 2. Certainly the crowd were getting their money`s worth as shortly after Baz Hepburn picked up the ball on the left before finding an onrushing Nicky McLaughlin at the far post with the young winger finishing with aplomb with a shot inside the near post. Ashfield 6 Newmains United 2. The game continued to ebb and flow and chances were had however there were no more scoring and this victory was a welcome one for the `field ahead of their League Match at Carluke Rovers on Wednesday night and the First Round Scottish Junior Cup tie next Saturday at home to Islavale next Saturday.
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 NEWMAINS UTD 2
Ashfield`s Team - T McGuire, J Crumlish, B Daly, A Cairns, S Doherty, M McManus, D Maguire, R McManus, B Rodden, C McLaughlin and B Hepburn. Subs:- J Howat, B Daily, C Leverage, D Leverage, B Quate (GK), J Marr and J Barr.
Man of the Match:- Chris McLaughlin. An excellent and versatile performance in Midfield winning most of the 50/50`s and linking up well with the front three and capped it off with a wonderful solo goal.
Attendance:- 70
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Carluke Rovers 2 Ashfield 3, John Cumming Stadium, Carluke - West of Scotland League - Conference B - Wednesday 18th August 2021 - Kick Off 8.30pm
The light was beginning to fade as both teams headed onto the 4G pitch at the John Cumming Stadium with both teams determined to take the valuable League points at stake. The 8.30pm Kick-Off seemed to effect the size of the gate as both teams started the Match wearing their traditional strips as the game started off at a frenetic pace. The No 10 trialist for Carluke was looking lively in the early stages and tested McGuire in the Ashfield goal within the first two minutes with a left foot drive. Next up it was Ashfield who foraged forward and a lovely move down the left flank saw Baz Hepburn cut in and drive the ball off the base of the post with the ball eventually being scrambled to safety. A tremendous effort which I think was touched onto the post by the Rovers Keeper. The game went from end to end however it was the home side that were carving out the best of the chances with the Rovers No 7 causing problems. In the 7th minute a shot from the Rovers winger brought out a good save from McGuire and a couple of cross balls caused alarm in the Ashfield back four and from a corner the ball broke to the No 10 for Carluke who picked up the 2nd ball from a header before lashing the ball high past McGuire to the delight of the home support. A good finish however a soft goal to lose from an Ashfield point of view. Carluke Rovers 1 Ashfield 0. The `field set up a chance for Ben Daily shortly after however the Ashfield strikers effort was saved by the Rovers Keeper. Carluke were adopting a tight offside trap and Ashfield`s front three were caught out on a number of occasions , some were very tight decisions indeed . In the 16th Minute the visitors had it all to do as the No 10 again for Rovers drilled a shot which was well saved by McGuire however the ball broke out to the edge of the six yard box and from an acute angle the Rovers No 9 clipped the ball into the net to put the home side 2-0 up. Carluke Rovers 2 Ashfield 0. This was a real blow for Ashfield however within 30 seconds they had pulled a goal back as a lovely through ball saw Ryan McManus break clear of his markers and lobbed the ball over the advancing Keeper to bring Ashfield back in it. Carluke Rovers 2 Ashfield 1. It was `game on` again and Ashfield had a good spell of concerted pressure. Ashfield almost levelled the Match with a headed opportunity before Brad Rodden almost broke through on the right hand side with his shot being blocked however on the half hour mark, Ashfield pulled level , again from Ryan McManus who found room outside the box and drove a terrific right foot shot past the arms of the Carluke Keeper to square the Match. Carluke Rovers 2 Ashfield 2. It was end to end stuff for the remainder of the half with both Managers going in at the break slightly concerned at the amount of chances given to the opposition.
HT:- CARLUKE ROVERS 2 ASHFIELD 2
The second half did not live up to the excitement of the first half until the latter stages of the Match when both teams had a real `go` at each other. Before that the game became rather bogged down in Midfield with a lot of injuries stopping the flow of the Match. Chances were also at a premium with defences more in control this half. The home side were given a scare with 20 minutes to go when the Keeper picked up a pass-back however as usually is the case the effort from 10 yards out was blocked by a host of defenders. As the game approached the last 5 minutes, Carluke managed to carve out an opening which saw a deflected effort miss McGuire`s post by inches.The `field then had a couple of corners which caused alarm however as the game went into injury time the `field were given one last chance following the awarding of a corner kick. The ball was whipped in at great pace and it was Sean Doherty who managed to glance a header into the top corner of the net to spark celebrations amongst the players, management and supporters of Ashfield as the home side had barely time to centre the ball before the Referee brought proceedings to a close. Carluke Rovers 2 Ashfield 3. It is never easy to lose a goal in injury time however this has happened to the `field twice this season at home to Glasgow United and Greenock respectively. The Conference B League is put into storage for Carluke and Ashfield this coming Saturday as both teams welcome Teams from the North Region with the Rovers welcoming Aberdeen Sunnybank and Ashfield welcoming Islavale from Keith.
FT:- CARLUKE ROVERS 2 ASHFIELD 3
Ashfield`s Team:- T McGuire, J Marr, A Cairns, S Doherty, J Crumlish, J Howat, B Hepburn, C McLaughlin, B Daily, R McManus and B Rodden. Subs:- J Barr, B Quate (GK), D Maguire, C Leverage, D Leverage, N McLaughlin and Mark McManus
Man of the Match:- Some excellent performances for the `field this evening against difficult and dangerous opponents, however Sean Doherty hardly put a foot wrong all night culminating in the 90th minute winner.
Attendance:- 40
Ashfield 5 Islavale 0, Macron Scottish Junior Cup First Round - K.O. 2.30pm - Saturday 21st August 2021 - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium
This is the third time in the last three Scottish Junior Cup draws that Ashfield have drawn North Region opposition in the First Round. Visits to Aberdeen Sunnybank and Colony Park in Inverurie resulted in good victories for the `field (6-1 & 6-3 respectively) and this time Islavale from Keith were warmly welcomed. The only history between the Clubs was the recent Goalkeeper link of Cammy Farquhar who spent over a season at Saracen Park from Islavale. Cammy now plys his trade at Newmains United.
Both teams were sporting their traditional strips as the Referee got things underway and from early on it was evident the `field were playing with confidence from their recent string of results stretching the North Region side in the early stages however found the `vale Keeper in excellent form. The `field had made a number of changes to personnel due to injuries and the recent toll of games and the Leverage brothers were foraging forward at every opportunity on the flanks and the pace of Daily and Rodden up front causing the `vale defence problems. It took until the 18th minute before the `field make the breakthrough with Baz Hepburn getting on the end of a low driven ball across the six yard line. Ashfield 1 Islavale 0. The visitors then made a real `go` of it working tremendously hard in Midfield with the `field being unable to stretch their lead. Colin Leverage on the right was the instigator of many of the attacks and on the 37th Minute the ball was played through to young Nicky McLaughlin who in turn played in Brad Rodden who rounded the Keeper and cut the ball back for Nicky McLaughlin to get a touch ahead of a number of defenders to put the `field 2-0 up. Ashfield 2 Islavale 0. Ben Daily should have made it three before the interval when he was put through and despite the Keeper tipping the ball over it was debatable if the effort would have gone in following a deflection. As the rain continued to fall in North Glasgow, the Referee brought proceedings to a close.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 ISLAVALE 0
The second half was rather more one sided with the `field turning on the screw early on with wave after wave of attacks. To the `vale`s credit they defended well and the Keeper had a number of excellent saves before Ashfield increased their lead further on the hour mark. A lovely whipped in corner from Brad Rodden on the right found the head of John Barr and the big Ashfield Central Defender`s header gave the Keeper no chance. Ashfield 3 Islavale 0. Darren Macguire was also linking up well playing slightly ahead of Midfield and he got his reward for a very good performance by picking up a loose ball on the edge of the box on the 70th Minute before firing the ball into the top corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 4 Islavale 0. The `field went in search of further goals and made a couple of substitutions. A couple of great saves from the `vale keeper firstly from a Baz Hepburn Free-Kick and then a tip round the post from a left footed drive from Ben Daily. Ben Daily had been everywhere on the Pitch in search of a goal and had come close on many occasions however the Ashfield Centre eventually got his name on the scoresheet and it was worth waiting for. A tremendous delivery from the right hand side by Colin Leverage sailed over the Islavale defence and was met by Ben Daily who`s diving header bulleted into the far corner of the net to put the `field 5-0 up. Ashfield 5 Islavale 0. The match was played out in good spirits and the Referee did not have to produce a Card during the Match. A good performance from Ashfield who never really let Islavale into the game at all and the 2nd Round Draw is a tricky one away to our old friends St Anthony`s in Govan.
FT:- ASHFIELD 5 ISLAVALE 0
Ashfield`s Team - T McGuire, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Marr, J Barr, M McManus, B Hepburn, D Macguire, B Daily, B Rodden and N McLaughlin. Subs:- S Doherty, A Cairns, D Burns, B Quate, J Crumlish, A Byrne and J Howat.
Man of the Match:-Ben Daily and Brad Rodden terrorised the Islavale defence throughout the 90 minutes however Colin Leverage won every ball today and started many attacks so edges the award this week.
Attendance:-73
Royal Albert 0 Ashfield 4 - Saturday 28th August 2021 - K.O. 2pm - West of Scotland League - Conference B - Tilework Park, Stonehouse, Lanarkshire.
The usual football `jargon` could be attributed to this Conference B Fixture - `a game of two halves` however there is probably not any other way to describe this game. The visitors were terrific in the first half , pacy and full of good inventive attacking football and how they only went in 2-0 up at half time left the crowd rather bemused, as it was a different game in the second half as the home side really `rolled up their sleeves` and it wasn`t until some second half substitutes were made that the `field managed to get control of the game again.
Ashfield graced the Tilework Park surface wearing their away strip of Red and Grey and the crowd were still drifting into the ground when the `field scored in 10 seconds. A ball was played across the park by an Albert defender and was intercepted by Brad Rodden who drove in on goal and as the Albert Keeper narrowed the angle, Brad `dinked` the ball over him and into the corner of the net to put the `field ahead. Royal Albert 0 Ashfield 1. The home side looked rather `shell shocked` as the visitors lay siege on the Albert goal for the next 30 mins. Shortly after a 25 yard curler shot crashed off the bar before the Albert Keeper brought off a host of saves from Ben Daily and Baz Hepburn. On the 20th minute a sweeping move down the right, following an Albert forage up the field, saw Jonny Howat break clear of his marker before playing the ball across the goal with no takers. Brad Rodden`s pace was causing the home side`s defence a problem and the Ashfield forward broke free of the defence before rounding the Keeper and cutting the ball back to Baz Hepburn who perhaps had too much time before the Keeper blocked his net bound effort from 8 yards with this foot. It wasn`t too much longer before Ashfield increased their lead. A driving run down the left from Dean Leverage found the ball being delivered with pace to the far post finding Brad Rodden who bulleted a diving header into the back of the net for his 9th goal of the season and giving the Keeper no chance. Royal Albert 0 Ashfield 2. The same pattern followed for the remainder of the half with the Albert side trying to make progress towards Ben Quate`s goal but were hit on the counter attack with pace from the visitors.
HT:- ROYAL ALBERT 0 ASHFIELD 2
A few tactical changes were made to the home side and all of a sudden there was no space in the midfield area with the `field struggling to assert themselves. The temperature also rose in the game too which matched the weather with the Referee kept busy with the dishing out of a number of yellow cards, some merited and some not. Chances were at a premium for both teams however as the half wore on the home side started getting some success from corner kicks and throw in`s into the box. John Barr & Sean Doherty were excellent throughout however & had to deal with a few `stramash`s`in the box before clearing the ball. The best chance for the Albert fell to their No 9 who managed to find space inside the box from a corner however his header flew by the post. The visitors made their full allocation of substitutes shortly after and all of a sudden the `field began to start making the chances again. Ryan McManus returning from injury was bringing people into the game with his hold up play and Darren Burns and Baz Hepburn had a couple of efforts well saved by the Albert Keeper. Darren Macguire almost weaved his way into a goal scoring position before being denied with a last gasp tackle however in the 81st Minute the game was over when Colin Leverage delivered a wicked cross from the right only to see the ball cannon off an Albert defender and into the corner of the net. Royal Albert 0 Ashfield 3. As the game approached `time up` the `field had one last chance and a lovely move saw the ball played through to Ryan McManus who evaded the offside trap before placing the ball into the corner of the net to the delight of the Ashfield Management and support. Royal Albert 0 Ashfield 4. An excellent finish and a good result for the `field which hoists them further up the table . The `field now have three home games ( 2 League and 1 Cup) before heading off on their travels to St Anthony`s on the 25th September in the 2nd Round of the Scottish Cup.
FT:- ROYAL ALBERT 0 ASHFIELD 4
Ashfield`s Team - B Quate, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Barr, S Doherty, J Howat, B Hepburn, D Burns, B Daily, J Crumlish and B Rodden. Subs:- M McManus, D Maguire, R McManus, N McLaughlin, A Cairns, C Beedham and J Marr.
Man of the Match:- A tremendous first half from Ashfield and only scoring two was to hinder them later in the game.Some notable performances from Brad Rodden & Ben Daily for the first 30 minutes & the back four did not give anything away however Jack Crumlish & Darren Burns bossed the Midfield throughout the game with Jack also contributing late on with some tremendous tackling.
Attendance:- 50
Photographs by:- Inga
Ashfield 2 Thorniewood United 4, Peugeot Ashfield Stadium - 2pm KO. West of Scotland League - Conference B
A `big game` yesterday between two teams who have made a good start to the Season and only a point separated them. The `field were hoping to make it 4 League wins in a row whilst the visitors were looking to `bounce`back from defeat at the hands of Glasgow United last week. It was the home side that made the `dream start` again following last week`s goal in 10 secs, this time it took a little longer - 1 minute and 52 seconds to be precise when Dean Leverage was played in on the edge of the box and after evading a tackle drove the ball goalwards only to see the Keeper block his initial shot however `Deano` followed up steering the ball into the far corner of the net. Ashfield 1 Thorniewood Utd 0. A great start and it took the visitors a while to properly `find their feet`. Next chance fell to Ben Daily when Ashfield were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box. Ben took the kick and missed the far upright by inches. The Midfield area was extremely competitive and the game began to swing from one end to another. Thorniewood looked dangerous coming forward and the Ashfield back three had to be on their toes together with young Ben Quate in goals. The visitors began to find some space coming forward and after a couple of corners drew level on the 26th minute . There was a shout for a penalty as John Barr tussled with the `wood forward however the ball broke out to the left half Small who took one stride forward before lashing the ball in at Ben Quate`s near post to level the game. Ashfield 1 Thorniewood Utd 1. Both teams pushed forward at every opportunity and were probably slightly guilty of playing the long ball in the tight confines of Saracen Park and as Referee Douglas brought proceedings to a halt both sets of fans knew that there would be more talking points in the second half.
HT:- ASHFIELD 1 THORNIEWOOD UTD 1
The second half started the same way as the first however this time it was Thorniewood that were on the `front foot` and lay siege on the Ashfield goal for the first 10 minutes of the half and by that time found themselves 3-1 ahead. For some reason it took Ashfield a while to start getting their passing game into gear with moves breaking down as a result of good play from the visitors . In the 51st Minute a guided pass into the box found Brown free of his marker and the `wood striker drove the ball with pace into the far corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 1 Thorniewood Utd 2. Ashfield tried to get back into the game but found openings difficult and in the 55th Minute a lovely breakaway from Thorniewood resulted in the ball being cut back from the bye line to the onrushing Brown who netted his 2nd within five minutes. Ashfield 1 Thorniewood United 3. It was `game on` after this as Ashfield certainly rolled up their sleeves in a bid to salvage the Match. A terrific move on the hour mark should have brought a goal when Brad Rodden cut the ball back to Ben Daily who was lurking around the penalty spot however the Ashfield Centre failed to make proper contact and the Keeper gathered well. A number of half chances fell Ashfield`s way however the back two of Thorniewood were commanding in the air. Both teams made a number of substitutes and as the game went into the latter period, Ashfield pulled back a goal which was similar to one from last week with the ball being driven in from the right and was met by an unfortunate `wood defender who steered the ball past his own keeper to ensure a nail biting finish. Ashfield 2 Thorniewood Utd 3. Try as they did chances were at a premium for the home side and the `wood defended well and were dangerous on the break. Centre Half Sean Doherty went up front for Ashfield to try and win our share of headers and this he did without troubling the Wood Keeper and just as the home support thought that they might nick a last minute equaliser it was the visitors who broke and from a suspiciously looking offside position Bowie was played through one on one with Ben Quate on the 90th Minute and as the Keeper advanced Bowie drilled the ball low and hard and into the back of the net to spark wild celebrations on the visitors bench. Ashfield 2 Thorniewood United 4. Ashfield should have pulled a goal back virtually straight from kick off when the ball was cut back into Sean Doherty`s path however his effort from 12 yards out sailed over the bar to sum up Ashfield`s day. A bad defeat for Ashfield however credit goes to Thorniewood for some clinical finishing and good defending.
FT:- ASHFIELD 2 THORNIEWOOD UTD 4
Ashfield`s Team:- B Quate, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Barr, S Doherty, J Marr, D Maguire, J Crumlish, B Daily, D Burns and B Rodden. Subs:- R Dakhill, M McManus, B Daly, J Howat, C Beedham, and J Dixon.
Man of the Match:- A disappointing result for the `field and halts a good run of results. A victory would have hoisted Ashfield into 4th place and they made a dream start yesterday. A difficult decision this week however Darren Maguire kept on pushing the `field forward at every opportunity.
Attendance:- 58
Ashfield 4 Greenock 6 , South Challenge Cup 1st Round - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium - Saturday 11th September 2021 - Kick -Off 2pm.
A welcome break from the intensity of the current Conference B West of Scotland League as Ashfield welcomed Greenock to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium on Cup Duty. Both teams have made good starts to the Season and if Ashfield had not lost their first home League game of the Season last week they would have joined Greenock in 4th place. On to today`s encounter and both teams were taking the game seriously fielding full strength teams albeit the home side had a number of injuries which gave Paul Maxwell the chance to name three of the Ashfield U20`s Team that have been performing well.
The game started openly as in the previous encounter between the Teams a few weeks ago and although it was the home side that started the brightest they found themselves a goal down on 12 Minutes following a corner kick with the `nock defender reacting quicker to the second ball. Ashfield 0 Greenock 1. The Ashfield front three continued to look lively with the visitors breaking quickly also in what was an entertaining opening. Ashfield pulled themselves level just before the half hour mark following a lovely move which saw Ryan McManus find some room in the box before deftly flicking the ball into the far corner of the net. Ashfield 1 Greenock 1. More was to come from Ryan and as the game approached half time, which had seen an upturn in hefty challenges, Ryan picked up the ball on the edge of the box before taking a stride forward and unleashing an unstoppable drive into the corner of the net to the delight of the home support. An excellent finish ! Ashfield 2 Greenock 1. Tempers flared shortly after following a dreadful tackle on James Marr and the ensuing `melee`saw Referee Craven book a further 2 players to add to his growing list and as the Referee blew for Half time you knew that there was going to be more twists and turns before the 90 minutes were played.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 GREENOCK 1
It was important for the home side to keep things tight in the early part of the second half and as the crowd were finding their seats for the half and the catering queue had subsided the `field again conceded a soft goal from a corner kick, with again opponents not being picked up. Ashfield 2 Greenock 2. It was `game on` again as both teams had a real go at each other for the remainder of the Match. The visitors, buoyed by the equaliser, were on top in the early stages with the `field unable to hold things up front and the traffic was all down towards the Springburn end of the ground however as the visitors applied the pressure it was Ashfield that took the lead in the 66th Minute. Darren Burns took the initiative, linking up with Brogan Daly, before evading a number of defenders on the left wing with the Ashfield midfielder then drilling the ball towards the Greenock Keeper`s front post however his cross was not gathered properly by the `nock Keeper as he allowed the ball to squirm under his body and into the net. Ashfield 3 Greenock 2. A period of consolidation was required for the home side however within 5 minutes their lead evaporated following an own goal. A lovely cross field pass was played to the dangerous James Marks however before the prolific `nock Striker could receive the ball, Sean Doherty intercepted the pass at full stretch diverting the ball past McGuire in the Ashfield goal to level the scores. Ashfield 3 Greenock 3. The next period of the game saw the `field capitulate with some dreadful defending and Goalkeeping to completely lose a grip of the Cup tie. This was not before an excellent chance fell to Brad Rodden however his powerful shot grazed the outside of the post. Greenock`s 4th Goal followed a bad error from the Ashfield Keeper who thought the ball was going out for a bye kick only to see the `nock forward nip in and steer the ball into the far corner of the net. Ashfield 3 Greenock 4. A minute later and it was 5-3. A corner kick on the left was played to the Ashfield front post and was met by the smallest player on the park who guided his header into the roof of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 3 Greenock 5. Ashfield made a couple of substitutions to try and salvage the tie and were unlucky when a lovely move on the left found the stretched leg of young Nicholas Dickson who knocked the ball just over the cross bar. The visitors next foray up the park resulted in the Greenock`s best goal of the day with the `nock No 6 picking the ball up 25 yards out and curling a left foot shot into the top corner of the net leaving McGuire with no chance. Ashfield 3 Greenock 6. A bizarre moment happened with 5 minutes to go - as the ball was cleared from well inside the visitors own half the clearance sailed over the Ashfield Keeper only for the ball to cannon off the post, trickle along the goal line and hit the other post and stay out. As it was the `field kept plugging away and on the 89th Minute Ryan McManus picked up the ball on the edge of the box and after evading a couple of tackles drove the ball into the corner of the net despite the valiant attempt of the `nock Keeper to complete an impressive hat-trick. Ashfield 4 Greenock 6. The Referee brought proceedings to a close shortly after and Greenock will now go onto play Johnstone Burgh at Keanie Park in the 2nd Round. As for the `field they will need to work on why they have lost 10 goals in the last 2 home games before welcoming Port Glasgow in a crucial League encounter next Saturday.
FT:- ASHFIELD 4 GREENOCK 6
Ashfield`s Team:- T McGuire, J Marr, J Barr, S Doherty, J Howat, B Daly, B Rodden, D Burns, B Daily, J Crumlish and R McManus. Subs:- D Leverage, B Quate (GK), D Maguire, JP Newton, G CHalmers, and N Dickson.
Man of the Match:- Ryan McManus produced a terrific all round display both up front and helping out his defence at set-piece`s going onto complete a hat-trick.
Attendance:-55
Ashfield 6 Port Glasgow 1 - West of Scotland League - Conference B - Saturday 18th September 2021 - Kick-Off 2pm.
It had been a good number of Seasons since both teams had `locked horns`, when over a decade ago they were regularly competing with each other for the Central Division title with Port and Ashfield gaining promotions within a year of each other. At start of play today only three points separated the sides and a close encounter was expected based on current form however that went `out the window` as the home side blew the visitors away in the first 26 minutes with the `field then 4-0 ahead.
As the crowd were still coming into the Ground, some nice passing play in midfield found Jack Crumlish gain a couple of yards and as the Ashfield midfielder strode forward he unleashed a shot from 22 yards which flew past the Port Keeper to put the `field ahead. Ashfield 1 Port Glasgow 0 . The joy was there to see from Jack & his team mates as he celebrated his first goal of the Season. Ashfield had brought in a `trialist` goalkeeper and he was tested early on as the visitors tried to hit back however in the 10th Minute a ball was played through the Port defence which the Port Keeper seemed to gather however lost control and Darren Maguire was quick to pounce and steered the ball into the empty net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 2 Port Glasgow 0. Worse was to follow for the visitors when a lovely move down the right by Ashfield saw the ball whipped across the 6 yard line and was diverted past his own Goalkeeper by the Port Centre Half. Ashfield 3 Port Glasgow 0. Ashfield had their `tails up` and were swarming forward at every opportunity and before the half hour mark a long throw from Dean Leverage was met by the head of Ryan McManus who guided his header into the far corner of the net to increase the home side`s lead. Ashfield 4 Port Glasgow 0. The visitors tried in vain during the next 15 minutes to try and salvage something from the first half and had a number of free-kicks in good positions however their attempts did not trouble the Ashfield Keeper with the home side coming close before the interval when a Ryan McManus shot cannoned off the crossbar and as Referee Jim Burns brought proceedings to a close it was a long way back for the visitors to salvage something from the Match.
HT:- ASHFIELD 4 PORT GLASGOW 0
Sunshine greeted the players back onto the park and the second half started in a real competitive fashion with both teams surging forward at every opportunity and just as the visitors were beginning to put Ashfield under pressure, the home side went further ahead on the 51st Minute in what was a terrific goal from Ashfield. Lovely link up play between Dean Leverage and Chris McLaughlin who threaded the ball through to Ryan McManus and from 22 yards out the Ashfield Centre made space for himself before drilling an unstoppable drive past the Port Keeper to increase the `field`s lead. Ashfield 5 Port Glasgow 0. Chances became few and far between and both teams made a number of substitutions in the September heat. The `undertakers`had a spell of pressure which was well dealt with by Sean Doherty and his defenders however with 20 minutes to go a cross from Coyle to the far post saw the Port Centre `ghost` in and his diving header found the corner of the net. Ashfield 5 Port Glasgow 1. The visitors threw players forward at every opportunity and were playing a tight offside trap at the back which had caught out the Ashfield forwards on a number of occasions however with 9 minutes on the clock, Darren Maguire broke through one on one with the Keeper however as he advanced he was upended in the box with Referee Burns having no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Ryan McManus took the penalty drilling the ball into the net to complete his 2nd Hat-trick in two weeks - a great achievement. Ashfield 6 Port Glasgow 1. That was the end of the scoring and this result hoist`s the `field up to 7th with a game in hand on most teams above . A very good performance from Ashfield who played extremely well - It`s on to Scottish Cup 2nd Round action next week when the `field make the short trip over to Govan to meet St Anthony`s in what will be a tough match.
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 PORT GLASGOW 1
Ashfield`s Team:- Trialist, J Marr, J Barr, S Doherty, C Leverage (Capt), B Daly, D Leverage, C McLaughlin, D Maguire, J Crumlish and R McManus Subs:- D Burns, R McLean (GK), S Flanagan, Trialist, M McManus, B Daily and Trialist.
Man of the Match:- Ashfield were good today and up against a team that had been on excellent form however the `field swept the visitors aside with a whirlwind start. Some excellent hold up play coupled with a superb hat-trick for the 2nd week running earns Ryan McManus the award.
Attendance: 50
Video Coverage of Ashfield-Port Glasgow on attached Link - https://youtu.be/CW1ZU9-WOW0
Many thanks again to Davie Brown
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St Anthony`s 1 Ashfield 1 (Ashfield won 4-2 on Penalties), McKenna Park, Govan, Glasgow - K.O. 2.30pm - Scottish Junior Cup 2nd Round
A `muggy` afternoon greeted both Teams and supporters to McKenna Park, which must be one of the best playing surfaces in Non-League Football. A slightly disappointing size of Crowd for the 2nd Round of the Scottish Junior Cup as the `field not only changed to their away strip of Red and Grey but were also enforced to change the Team that played so well against Port Glasgow last week due to a number of injuries. Ashfield had their new signing James Gilmartin on the Bench who last played for the `field in the 2013-14 Season. The game started at a frantic pace and certainly had a `cup tie` feel to it with both sides not holding back and the Referee was kept busy in the early stages quelling some `over-enthusiastic` challenges. Chances were at a premium with the `field only playing with Ben Daily up front however this all changed in the 20th Minute when the home side were awarded a free kick 22 yards out. The Ants left back, who was very impressive throughout the Match, delivered a fierce shot which was punched clear by Chris Prior in the Ashfield goal to the edge of the box however the ball was picked up by Martin Mulraney who drilled a left foot shot through a ruck of players and into the corner of the net to the delight of the home support. St Anthony`s 1 Ashfield 0. A blow for the `field and shortly after Ashfield`s right back John Marr pulled up and was replaced by a forward in James Gilmartin and suddenly the pendulum swung Ashfield`s way as the big Centre forward certainly made his presence felt initially getting involved in a number of challenges however looked dangerous and just after the half hour mark a lovely delivered corner saw Gilmartin outjump the Ants defence and bullet a header into the roof of the net to the delight of the Ashfield support. St Anthony`s 1 Ashfield 1. The game really opened up after this and both sides foraged forward at every opportunity and as the Referee brought proceedings to a close the crowd knew they were in for an interesting second half.
HT:- ST ANTHONY`S 1 ASHFIELD 1
There were no changes to the personnel as the teams kicked off and it was the visitors that took control early on with a number of forays into the Ant`s box. The Ants defence stood resiliant though and kept chances to a minimum. Ashfield thought they had scored a second when Gilmartin was played through and his left foot shot hit the top corner of the net before the Referee chalked it off for hand ball. A `let off` for the Ants and the Ants Keeper had to perform heroics shortly after as the `field had a number of chances with Ben Daily wondering what he had to do to beat the Keeper. A good old `stramash` on the hour mark saw the ball blocked on the line by an Ants defender before being blocked again by the Keeper as the `field tried in vain to get ahead. Sean Doherty and his fellow defenders were keeping the lively Ants attack at bay during the second half and the home side were restricted to long range shots at this stage. As the Match went into the final stages you could see both teams were aware of the penalties looming and had a real go at each other. The Ants had a wonderful opportunity in the 82nd Minute when a lovely through ball saw the Ants forward get ahead of the Ashfield Keeper who forced the player wide however a lovely cut back to Evariste Ebembo saw his netbound effort headed off the line by John Barr to the relief of the travelling support. Ashfield forward Ben Daily was next up as he broke clear of the Ants defence however his shot was blocked by the legs of the impressive Ants Keeper. A full 5 minutes of injury time was played before the Referee brought the game to a halt and onto the `dreaded` penalties.
Ashfield went on to win the tie 4-2 on Penalties:-
St Anthony`s Scorers:- Crawford and Mulraney
Ashfield Scorers:- Gilmartin, Burns, Barr and Daily
FT:- ST ANTHONY`S 1 ASHFIELD 1 (Ashfield won 4-2 on Penalties)
Ashfield`s Team - C Prior, J Marr, J Barr, C Leverage, S Doherty, D Leverage, D Burns, C McLaughlin, B Daily, J Crumlish and B Daly. Subs:- T MacGuire (GK), J Gilmartin, J Howat, M McManus, S Bryson and A Byrne.
Man of the Match:- Some excellent performances for Ashfield today with special mention to Sean Doherty and Jack Crumlish however the Ashfield substitute James Gilmartin, making his first appearance for the Club since 2013-14 Season where he scored 7 goals, was tremendous, not only scoring the equaliser & converting one of the penalties but his overall play ensured he game the Ants defence a torrid afternoon.
Attendance:- 70
St Cadoc`s 4 Ashfield 2 , West of Scotland League - Conference B - Saturday 2nd October 2021 - 2pm KO - McKenna Park, Govan, Glasgow.
This was the first ever meeting between the Teams and it was more than disappointing that the weather was horrendous before, during and after the Match. St Cadocs had made an excellent start to the League and were sitting proudly in 3rd Place having only lost one Match. The `field were pursuing 4th place and had a number of games `in hand` against the teams above. The Ashfield Management Team did not have the best of preparations due to a lengthy injury list , however they did have new signing James Gilmartin in the starting line up following his impressive display in the Cup victory last week.
It was the `field that started off the brightest and were foraging forward at every opportunity. Ryan McManus was holding the ball up well and in the 6th minute following some intricate play on the edge of the box the Ashfield striker broke free of his marker however his placed shot was blocked by the Cadocs Keeper. The ball did break out to the edge of the box where Gilmartin was first to react and his acrobatic volley crashed off the crossbar to the relief of the home support. Dean Leverage was having success down the left hand side and a couple of crosses just missed the Ashfield front two. The home side came into the Match after 15 minutes and some of their Midfield play was `easy on the eye` with Howat and Crumlish for Ashfield closing down where possible. The Match was pretty even at this stage however it suddenly changed following a wonderful delivery into the Ashfield box. Dykes picked the ball up midway inside the `field`s half and his curling cross evaded the Ashfield back two with Dallas bulleting a header past McGuire to put St Cadocs ahead. St Cadocs 1 Ashfield 0. A blow for Ashfield as they hadn`t done much wrong as they set about trying to get the equaliser. The home side were dangerous when Ashfield were on attack and Sean Doherty had to marshall his troops accordingly. Jim Gilmartin was making his presence felt again this week ably backed up Ryan McManus and a couple of shots from the Striker failed to trouble the Cadocs Keeper however on the half hour mark the ball broke to Gilmartin at the edge of the box and as he was about to be closed down the Ashfield striker took once stride forward and drove the ball low and hard into the back of the net to the delight of the rain soaked travelling fans. A great finish from Gilmartin. St Cadocs 1 Ashfield 1. The game swung from end to end with the Referee guilty of being rather `Card happy` when the game was played in good spirits. Ashfield were keen to keep things tight at the back however in the 39th minute went behind. A Corner on the left was whipped into virtually the 6 yard box with the Ashfield Keeper and defence being unable to stop the momentum of Dallas`s run as the Cadocs forward bundled the ball home to the delight of the home support. St Cadocs 2 Ashfield 1. A really disappointing goal from the `field`s point of view and you could see the home side gain confidence from this as they went into the Second half a goal ahead.
HT:- ST CADOC`S 2 ASHFIELD 1
The home side were buoyed by scoring late on in the first half and started the half well without troubling the Ashfield Keeper too much. The Referee continued to upset both benches and both were given yellow cards for complaining about decisions. Just as it looked as if Ashfield had weathered the early storm, it was the home side that stretched their lead on the hour mark. Again the problems came from an inswinging corner which was only half cleared with the ball breaking out to Dallas who took one touch before lashing the ball high into the net to give the home side some breathing space now and at the same time complete his hat-trick. St Cadocs 3 Ashfield 1. Ashfield tried in vain to claw their way back into the game after that and as the half wore on gradually got their passing game back and played some nice football. With 20 minutes to go a lovely move saw the ball played through to Colin Leverage who had made a great run from the right hand side. The Ashfield Captain drove the ball with pace from 10 yards out only to see the ball brilliantly saved by McKinven in the St Cadocs goal. This would have set up a tremendous finish for the `field however it was the home side that went up the park and increased their lead. A shot from outside the box from the impressive Dykes took a deflection and fizzed into the far corner of the net to the anguish of the visitors. St Cadocs 4 Ashfield 1. This was now a harsh scoreline for the `field however to their credit they kept on pushing forward at every opportunity and substitute Ben Daily had a couple of efforts blocked before Ashfield pulled a goal back in the 88th minute. A curling corner kick delivered by Jack Crumlish saw Sean Doherty rise above the St Cadocs defence and his header across goal was swept into the net by Ryan McManus to reduce the deficit with his 14th Goal of the Season. St Cadocs 4 Ashfield 2. The Referee brought proceedings to a close shortly after what was an entertaining game despite the overhead conditions. The `field must `dust `themselves down now for the visit of Gartcairn next week to Saracen Park and will be hoping the injury crisis improves in early course.
FT:- ST CADOC`S 4 ASHFIELD 2
Ashfield`s Team:- T McGuire, C Leverage, D Leverage, S Bryson, S Doherty, J Barr, J Howat, D Burns, J Gilmartin, J Crumlish and R McManus. Subs:- B Quate (GK), B Daily and A Byrne.
Man of the Match - Ryan McManus was exceptional today against a very good team with his overall hold up play, his goal and didn`t deserve to be on the losing side.
Attendance:- 80
Ashfield 2 Gartcairn 4, Peugeot Ashfield Stadium, Glasgow - Kick-Off 2pm. West of Scotland League - Conference B - Saturday 9th October 2021.
The Match had been in doubt yesterday Lunchtime however the lack of rain in the last 18 hours ensured the pitch recovered in time and the crowd were treated to an enthralling 90 minutes which swung from end to end. The home side will be disappointed again at not securing at least a point as Gartcairn ensured their unbeaten record remained intact at Saracen Park and made it 5 wins out of 5 in the League also.
A couple of changes to the `field`s line up with Ben Daily operating behind the front two worked well and within a minute of Kick-Off Ashfield were ahead. A long throw-in from Dean Leverage on the right hand side found the head of Defender Stephen Bryson and his header found the back of the net to put the `field 1-0 up. Ashfield 1 Gartcairn 0. The visitors were stung into action and had a number of corners which were well defended by Sean Doherty and his defenders. The `field were foraging forward at every opportunity and keen to extend their lead when an individual error wiped away the home side`s lead in the 22nd Minute. A poor kick-out by Quate in the Ashfield goal went straight to the Gartcairn No 9 McNeil and as he advanced in on goal he drove the ball striking the base of the post only to see the ball bounce back to Owen Ronald who guided the ball past a despairing John Barr on the goal line to level the scores. Ashfield 1 Gartcairn 1. The `field were still recovering from this set back when Gartcairn won the ball midway inside the Ashfield half and it was again Ross McNeil who drove into the box and was brought down by Stephen Bryson. The Referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot despite the protests from the Ashfield players. There did seem minimal contact however the Referee had a better view than most at the game. Ross McNeil duly despatched the penalty however Ashfield`s keeper did get close to it and got something on it. Ashfield 1 Gartcairn 2. It was game on again for Ashfield to pick up where they had left off before their `daft` 5 minutes and to their credit the home side worked the flanks well and caused a lot of problems to the Gartcairn back four with set pieces and on the 38th minute they got their reward. A lovely corner from Ben Daily found the head of Sean Doherty and the big Ashfield Centre half bulleted in a header to level the scores. Ashfield 2 Gartcairn 2. The game ebbed and flowed right up until half time and the crowd knew that they would be in for an exciting 2nd period.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 GARTCAIRN 2
The second half carried on in the same fashion as the first with both sides pushing forward at every opportunity. Chances were less prevalent and the heavy underfoot conditions did take it`s toll as the half wore on. Ashfield were enjoying success down the left flank with Dean Leverage sending over some dangerous crosses and also the wide players for Gartcairn were also looking dangerous. On the hour mark a lovely move inside the box for the home side saw the ball break to Ryan McManus however his left foot drive was brilliantly saved by the Gartcairn Keeper. Next up it was the visitors who scorned an opportunity as Ross McNeil found space for himself on the left hand side of the box before drilling a shot inches wide to the relief of the home support. The relief was only short lived and with 22 minutes left on the clock it was the visitors that made the all important breakthrough and again it was a goal from the home side`s perspective that should have been avoided. A long ball was played up the park and as the Ashfield Keeper hesitated the Gartcairn winger nipped ahead and was sent crashing to the ground by the Keeper. The Referee has one of his easier decisions of the day as Ross McNeil took the penalty kick and finished with aplomb to put the visitors ahead. Ashfield 2 Gartcairn 3. Ashfield brought on Baz Hepburn shortly after and his pace and crossing ability were certainly causing alarm in the visitors defence. From another long throw, Sean Doherty almost got his 2nd of the day when his net-bound header was cleared off the line followed up by a couple of penalty appeals for the home side. The visiting defence stood firm and rubbed `salt in the wound` for the `field with a 90th minute goal following some neat play on the edge of the box. Ashfield 2 Gartcairn 4. There was barely time to centre the ball before Referee Murdoch brought proceedings to a close to the delight of the visiting fans. A `sore one` for Ashfield who put so much into the game and will play worse and win this Season. It`s another crucial League encounter next week as Ashfield welcome Royal Albert to North Glasgow.
FT:- ASHFIELD 2 GARTCAIRN 4
Ashfield`s Team:- B Quate, C Leverage, D Leverage, S Bryson, S Doherty, J Barr, B Daily, J Crumlish, R McManus, J Gilmartin and J Howat. Subs:- B Rodden, M McManus, B Hepburn, A Byrne, D Burns and B Daly.
Man of the Match:- The `field put in a good shift today and were unlucky not to get something from the Match. Leading early on and level at 2-2 at the interval it was disappointing to lose the goals through individual errors. Sean Doherty pushed forward at every opportunity and although scoring once could have had more Sean edges the award this week.
Attendance:- 50
Ashfield 6 Royal Albert 1, Saturday 16th October 2021 - West of Scotland League - Conference B - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium - Kick-Off 2pm.
It was a cold afternoon that welcomed both teams onto the Park with underfoot conditions pretty heavy however it didn`t stop an all action 90 minutes being played out to the 60+ fans at Saracen Park yesterday. Ashfield were keen to get back to winning way after a couple of high scoring narrow defeats were had and a climb of 2 League places was on offer if three points could be achieved. An offensive Line -up saw the return of Brad Rodden alongside Ryan McManus and Ben Daily and also a first start to Baz Hepburn for a while following injury. Ashfield started the brightest and play was mostly in the Albert half for the first quarter and the `field got their reward in the 12th minute when a through ball found Ryan McManus clear on goal and his shot whistled past the advancing Albert Keeper to put the home side ahead. Ashfield 1 Royal Albert 0 . The visitors responded well without troubling Chris Prior in the Ashfield goal before a further goal in the 27th minute gave the home side some breathing space and it was that man Ryan McManus who notched his 16th Goal of the Season lobbing the Albert Keeper from the edge of the box. Ashfield 2 Royal Albert 0. Further chances came Ashfield`s way with Brad Rodden almost finding himself on the scoresheet on two separate occasions. Firstly he was played through on the 35th minute however his lobbed shot was tipped round the post by the Albert Keeper. Shortly after a lovely move down the right saw Rodden run in on goal however he blasted his shot over the Bar. Right on Half time the `field got a warning that the game was not over with Chris Prior saving a point blank header on the goal line. The `field knew they would have to be more clinical in the second half to avoid the visitors getting any encouragement.
HT:- ASHFIELD 2 ROYAL ALBERT 0
The game started off in the same vein as the first however there was more urgency to Ashfield`s play up against a determined Albert side who fought hard. Ashfield eventually secured the three points on the hour mark following a lovely move down the right. Ben Daily picked the ball on the far right hand side and his cut back to Anton Byrne was whipped into the box. Ryan McManus made room for himself and guided the ball low and hard past the Albert Keeper to complete his hat-trick. Ashfield 3 Royal Albert 0. The Ex-Albion Rovers man was on form again this afternoon and within 5 minutes had notched his 4th and Ashfield`s 4th. A long ball from the back was brilliantly taken down by McManus who poked the ball under the advancing Keeper, with the Keeper picking up a knock in the process which forced him off. Ashfield 4 Royal Albert 0. It was one-way traffic now and a debatable goal was chopped off by the Referee following an excellent finish from Ben Daily when it was clear that the Ashfield striker had made a run from behind the defence. Ben Daily didn`t have long to wait to get his name on the scoresheet picking up a loose ball on the left edge of the box and driving the ball past the Keeper to put the `field 5-0 up. Ashfield 5 Royal Albert 0. With 6 minutes left on the clock it was the visitors that carved out an opportunity with the ball being played into the box. The ball was headed across and it was an Albert Forward that was first to react evading a tackle before lashing the ball past a disappointed Chris Prior. Ashfield 5 Royal Albert 1. The scoring was not finished and it was fitting that the last goal was scored by Ryan McManus after finding some room in the box. This was his fifth goal of the Match and he joins an elite band of players for Ashfield in receiving a Silver Dollar for his exploits. The last recipients being Callum Graham, Ciaran Friel and Paul Maxwell. Ashfield 6 Royal Albert 1. The Referee brought proceedings to a close shortly after and the `field move up to 8th place in this extremely tight League and have a game in hand on most above. It`s a break in the League for Ashfield for the next couple of weeks due to Cup action starting with a 3rd Round Scottish Cup Tie next Saturday at Vale of Leven followed up by a home tie the week after against Glasgow University in the West of Scotland Cup.
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 ROYAL ALBERT 1
Ashfield`s Team:- C Prior, J Marr, S Bryson, B Daly, A Byrne, D Burns, M McManus, B Daily, B Hepburn, R McManus and B Rodden. Subs D Macguire, D Leverage, J Barr, j Crumlish, S Doherty and Trialist.
Man of the Match:- Ryan McManus with a wonderful display of finishing.
Attendance:- 60
Vale of Leven 2 Ashfield 2, (Ashfield won 4-1 on Penalties), Scottish Junior Cup 3rd Round - Millburn Park, Alexandria - Saturday 23rd October 2021 - K.O. 2.30pm
It is always an enjoyable trip down to Alexandria and to Millburn Park in what must be one of the best pitches in the Conference Leagues. Games between the `Vale` and Ashfield have been entertaining and close affairs over the years however we must go back to the Scottish Junior Cup Semi Final of 1953 for the last Junior Cup Meeting when at the time hot favourites Ashfield were succumbed 3-0 by the Vale at Ibrox Park in front of 33,000. Unfortunately today`s attendance was only nudging the three figures as the teams entered the Park with Ashfield changing to their away strip of Red and Grey.
As the crowd were still coming in, Ashfield were awarded a penalty after 2 minutes with their first foray into the Vale penalty box. The Referee deemed that there was a handball immediately pointing to the spot despite the protests of the Vale Players and the Bench which then attracted the Referee and as a result the Vale Manager was shown a Red Card. Brad Rodden took the Penalty for Ashfield however the impressive Vale Keeper Pollock produced a tremendous save down at his left hand side to ensure the game remained level. The home side welcomed the `let off` however were unable to force their game to Ashfield as the visitors made excellent use of the large park at Milburn and utilised the flanks well. A couple of half chances were had however the `field should have gone ahead on the 25th minute when a lovely delivered ball from Baz Hepburn found the head of Ben Daily and after finding space in the box his header went by the post with the goal gaping. The home defence were in stubborn mood as Ashfield tried to make the breakthrough with the home side restricted to efforts from outside the box. Just as the crowd thought that the Match would go in all square at half time, the `field were awarded a free-kick on the left hand side. Again an excellent delivery this time from Darren Macguire saw Ashfield Centre Half John Barr bullet a header past the Vale Keeper from 8 yards out to put the `field ahead. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 1. The Referee had barely time to centre the ball before bringing the half to a close.
HT:- VALE OF LEVEN 0 ASHFIELD 1
The `field were expecting a reaction from the home side however in the early stages of the half this did not materialise with the`field forcing the play. Darren Maguire was having some joy down the right hand side delivering some good balls into the middle however a succession of corners failed to trouble the Vale Keeper who was commanding in the air. As the half wore on the game became rather tousy and the Referee started to brandish some Cards. The `field were given a warning on the hour mark following a lovely move down the right which was whipped into the front post only to see Prior palm away a deflected shot. A couple of changes to the line up ensued however it was the home side that equalised in the 70th minute as a lovely through ball was played into the Vale Centre Martin Connolly and he guided his shot past the advancing Chris Prior to the delight of the home support. Vale of Leven 1 Ashfield 1. The game was held up for an injury to the Vale Centre half shortly after and this gave the players a breather however it was the home side who were on the front foot now. Ashfield lost the ball on the far side shortly after and the ball was played down the flanks to McGeachy who delivered a wicked cross into the front post and this time it was met by Antony Pilkington who glanced his shot into the net to put the home side ahead with 12 minutes left on the clock. Vale of Leven 2 Ashfield 1. A blow for Ashfield as they lay siege on the home defence now. Vale Keeper Pollock was in impressive form firstly turning a netbound free-kick past the post from substitute James Gilmartin. The Referee was kept busy during this period and with two minutes to go Baz Hepburn got away from his marker only to be brought down with Referee pulling out the Red Card for McGeachy. Once the `dust` had settled Ashfield pushed everyone up and a curling free-kick into the box was headed across goal by Gilmartin finding John Barr however his downward header was blocked by the Vale Keeper with the ball breaking to Baz Hepburn who prodded the ball home to spark wild celebrations on and off the park. Vale of Leven 2 Ashfield 2. A cruel blow for the home side however the `field deserved it on the balance of play as Referee brought proceedings to a close shortly after and we again headed to penalties.
As in the last round, Ashfield`s penalties were finished with aplomb and Chris Prior as he has done for many years was inspirational in Goals. Ashfield`s penalty scorers in order:-
James Gilmartin,
Baz Hepburn
John Barr
Ryan McManus
FT:- VALE OF LEVEN 2 ASHFIELD 2 (Ashfield won 4-1 on Penalties)
Ashfield`s Team:- C Prior, C Leverage, B Daly, J Barr, S Bryson, J Crumlish, D Maguire, B Hepburn, B Daily, R McManus and B Rodden. Subs:- M McManus, A Byrne, J Gilmartin, B Quate (GK), D Leverage and J Marr.
Man of the Match:- Some excellent performances yesterday with special mention to Darren Maguire and Baz Hepburn however John Barr had a great game, scoring the 1st goal, making the 2nd and scoring his penalty, Well Done John !
Attendance:- 100
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Ashfield 0 Cambuslang Rangers 3 , Saturday 6th November 2021 - West of Scotland League - Conference B - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium - KO 2pm.
The `field welcomed Cambuslang Rangers to Saracen Park for the first time in many Seasons and the Match was eagerly awaited amongst the Ashfield faithful to gauge their progress against so far the `top team` in the League. The visitors have made an impressive start to their League campaign winning 13 out of their 15 League Matches however they would have to contend with a confident home side fresh from their Scottish Cup Victory at Vale of Leven and the dreadful overhead conditions.
The size of the Crowd was not as big as expected due to weather and the number of matches in the vicinity being played and the Match started slowly as both teams took a while to find their feet on the sodden surface. Chances were at a premium apart from an early half chance from Ryan McManus for the `field. John Gemmell who was instrumental in Cambuslang`s victory over Ashfield earlier in the Season was playing up front and was being tightly marked by John Barr & Sean Doherty. Ashfield were backed by a stroing wind as they attacked the Springburn end of the Ground and Dean Leverage was prominent launching his long throw-ins at every opportunity into the Rangers six yard box. It was Dean who almost opened the scoring in the 25th minute after a lovely couple of 1-2`s found him free 12 yards out however a last ditch tackle blocked his effort. Another couple of corners for the `field caused alarm in the visitors box before Rangers themselves had two excellent opportunities before half time. A headed flick on from Gemmell found Williamson through on goal and he placed his shot Chris Prior made an excellent save low to his right to divert the ball for a corner. Shortly after Williamson found himself through on goal again following a neat interchange and as he rounded Prior and shot goalwards it was John Barr who came to the `field`s rescue to clear the ball on the line. As Referee Michael Bonner brought proceedings to a halt the crowd knew it was going to be an entertaining Second Half.
HT:- ASHFIELD 0 CAMBUSLANG RANGERS 0
Unfortunately for Ashfield the rain and fierce wind had not eased and the visitors began to use the wind to their benefit with long throw in`s prevalent throughout the early stages of the half. It was extremely competitIve in Midfield and the home side were matching their opponents at this stage. Young Anton Byrne was everywhere in what was only his second game back from long term injury and was winning more than his share of 50/50`s. On the hour mark, the `field almost made the breakthrough after a lovely ball into the box following a corner was headed inches wide by Sean Doherty. This gave the visitors a `jolt` and they upped their tempo in the last half hour of the Match. A couple of long range shots were well saved by Chris Prior before the Referee awarded Cambuslang a free-kick 22 yards out. Jay Nelson took the award and delivered a curling effort which crashed off the underside of the bar to the relief of the home support. This was a warning for the `field and shortly after the crossbar came to the `field`s assistance again. A corner kick delivered to the edge of the box was volleyed into the ground by John Gemmell with the ball bouncing up and hitting Chris Prior`s cross bar. Another wicked corner with 20 minutes to go was met by the wind and scrambled clear by the Ashfield defence on the goal line. However with 15 minutes to go Ashfield`s defence was breached. A firm corner this time to the front post was met by an onrushing Scott Anson and the Ex-Petershill man bulleted a header high into the net to the delight of the visiting fans. His joy was there to see as the `field made a couple of immediate changes. Ashfield 0 Cambuslang Rangers 1. Ashfield pressed forward at every opportunity and the introduction of Rodden on the right hand side produced a couple of brilliant crosses into the box. With the clock ticking Rodden picked the ball up on the right cutting in and delivered a floated ball which was blocked on the goal line and eventually scrambled clear. The `field were to rue this chance as a break down the right saw the ball delivered low and hard across the Ashfield box for the unlucky Baz Hepburn to knock the ball past his own Keeper to put the Rangers 2-0 up. Ashfield 0 Cambuslang Rangers 2. The `field tried in vain to attack but it was the visitors who `rubbed salt in the wound` by adding a third in stoppage time. This time it was the prolific John Gemmell who weaved his way past a couple of defenders before rounding the Ashfield Keeper and finishing off a good afternoon for Cambuslang Rangers. Referee Bonner brought proceedings to a close from Kick-Off and considering the conditions overhead and underfoot both teams deserve enormous credit for putting on a good show. A sore one for the `field however they can take positives and head down to Greenock next Saturday to try and hoist themselves further up the League table. Cambuslang entertain Newmains Utd next week and is difficult to see them being removed from top spot for the forseeable future.
FT:- ASHFIELD 0 CAMBUSLANG RANGERS 3
Ashfield`s Team:- C Prior, C Leverage, B Daly, J Barr, S Doherty, D Leverage, D Maguire, B Daily, R McManus, A Byrne and J Howat. Subs:- M McManus, J Gilmartin, B Hepburn, B Rodden and J Marr
Man of the Match:- Young Anton Byrne deserves enormous credit for putting on such an energetic show on his return from injury. The Ex-Drumchapel Utd player was everywhere today.
Attendance:- 60
Greenock 3 Ashfield 1, Ravenscraig Stadium, Greenock - Saturday 13th November 2021 - Kick-Off 1.30pm - West of Scotland League - Conference B
It has never been a `happy `hunting ground` for the `field over the years and unfortunately today`s encounter proved no different after a very competitive 90 minutes at the Ravenscraig Stadium. The `field and in particular Manager Paul Maxwell had to contend with a really difficult week whilst recovering from COVID-19. The fact that he was without his Assistant Ryan Dakhill due to Covid and our 3 Goalkeepers on our books, Striker Jim Gilmartin & Centre Back John Barr made the trip to a talented Greenock side even the more challenging. In addition we had to say our `goodbyes`to two of our forward players this week with Brad Rodden moving to Rossvale & Ben Daily being signed by Rob Roy yesterday.
However this gave `Maxi` the opportunity to bring into the squad, Nicky Dixon, Kian Flanagan and J P Newton from the Ashfield U20`s Team. The game started without the incessant rain of the last few matches and both teams were eager to stamp their authority on proceedings. Chances were at a premium early on with both defences playing well. Ashfield`s `stand in` keeper only had to encounter a couple of cross balls before being called into play on the 22nd Minute when following a lovely move, the Greenock No 6 broke clear only to see Anton block his net bound effort with his legs. Ashfield were content to hit on the break during the first half and came more and more into the game as the half wore on. Ryan McManus was lacking support and service up front and the `field knew they would have to address this as the match wore on. Despite the game being really competitive there was not a bad foul on show however a number of Cards were brandished by the Referee. Just as both teams were set to go into the interval level, the home side got their reward for a hard working performance however it came from a bizarre own goal from one of Ashfield`s best performers on the Park. A ball was played out to the left where the No 18 from Greenock glided past his marker before whipping the ball across the box however with no attacker around him, Jack Crumlish miscued his clearance knocking the ball past Anton Byrne in the visitors goal to the anguish of the travelling support to put Greenock ahead. Greenock 1 Ashfield 0. The referee brought proceedings to a halt shortly after a number of extra minutes of injury time caused by James Marr`s head collision which resulted in the Ashfield defender having to leave the field.
HT:- GREENOCK 1 ASHFIELD 0
It was important that Ashfield kept things tight at the start of the second half after losing such a late goal before half time however it wasn`t to be as twice in the first two minutes Ashfield were hit on the break resulting in two corners for the home side. The second corner was whipped into the front post and similar to last week against Cambuslang the onrushing player this time Docherty bulleted a header high into the net to the delight of the home support. Greenock 2 Ashfield 0 . A vital goal for the `nock as they put the `field through a difficult 10 minutes which saw them increase their lead further shortly after when Ashfield were caught trying to take a quick free -kick which rebounded when the ball broke to Eardley who lashed the ball into the corner of the net from 22 yards out. Greenock 3 Ashfield 0. The `field were really up against it now however two further substitutes were made and the `field then began to come into the play midway through the half and began to find space on the flanks and in the middle of the park with Jack Crumlish beginning to dominate in this area. Young Nicky Dixon was working tirelessly up front closing down the `nock back four at every opportunity showing a great amount of energy following 90 minutes last night against Clydebank U20`s. With 14 minutes to go a through ball on the right saw Jack Crumlish get ahead of his marker and as he drove into the box was brought down with the Referee having no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Ryan McManus stepped up sending the `nock replacement keeper the wrong way to reduce the deficit. Greenock 3 Ashfield 1. The `field could sense an opportunity however despite pressure found the `nock back four in resilient mood however with 4 minutes left on the clock, the `field got the chance to try and ensure a grandstand finish however as the ball was played across the penalty box, Darren Macguire failed to make a good connection to his shot and dragged it agonisingly wide and that was that. A good performance from the home side with the `field rueing some defensive lapses. A massive Match now for Ashfield next week against an improving Dalry Thistle Team
FT:- GREENOCK 3 ASHFIELD 1
Ashfield`s Team:- A Byrne, C Leveridge, B Daly, J Marr, S Doherty, J Howatt, D Macguire, J Crumlish, R McManus, M McManus and B Hepburn. Subs:- N Dixon, J P Newton and K Flanagan.
Man of the Match:- Jack Crumlish, despite putting past his own Keeper in the first half, Jack grew into the game and drove Ashfield on in the second half gaining the penalty award also.
Attendance:- 51
Ashfield 3 Dalry Thistle 2, Peugeot Ashfield Stadium, Glasgow - Saturday 20th November 2021 - Kick-Off 1.30pm - West of Scotland League - Conference B
Ashfield welcomed Dalry Thistle to Saracen Park for the first since since 2010 and similar to that game this was a `topsy turvy`affair which swung from end to end. The visitors put on a very good show and will be disappointed at not going back down the A737 with at least a point however a rousing last 15 minutes from the home side won the game for them after a lacklustre performance.
The game started quietly with neither side creating much in the way of chances as the game became quickly embroiled in midfield. The Dalry No 9 Stewart was catching the eye with his link up play and when the visitors did forage forward they did so with numbers and started to cause the Ashfield back four some problems. The home side were given a warning after 25 minutes when Referee Trayner awarded a rather soft free kick 25 yards out. It was Stewart who took the award bending the ball over the wall before it crashed off Chris Calder`s crossbar to the relief of the home support. The `field were to pay shortly when an uncharacteristic mistake from Sean Doherty saw Stewart win the ball from the Ashfield Centre Half before rounding Calder and putting Dalry ahead. Ashfield 0 Dalry Thistle 1. A blow for Ashfield however worse was to come as the visitors saw their chance. A long clearance from the Dalry Keeper was headed straight to Stewart by Doherty and the big Centre took a few strides forward before playing in an onrushing Dalry player who drove the ball low and hard only to see Calder save well with his legs however the second ball fell to the Dalry No 10 who guided the ball into the net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 0 Dalry Thistle 2. This was a real blow for the `field however based on the balance of play one in which the visitors totally merited. As the half wore on to half time, Ashfield came into it slightly with a succession of corners and long throw ins however the visitors stood form and as the Referee brought proceedings to a close the home side knew they would have a lot to do to get back into the game.
HT:- ASHFIELD 0 DALRY THISTLE 2
The home support were looking for a big half from the `field and despite a brisk start to the half the home side failed to make any inroads into the Dalry back four with Ryan McManus slightly isolated up front with the support arriving sometimes too late but in the 52nd minute they managed to reduce the deficit following a long throw in to the box with the ball breaking to Ryan McManus who had time to control the ball before lashing it into the empty net. Ashfield 1 Dalry Thistle 2. It was `game on` now as Ashfield made a couple of substitutions with John Barr coming on for John Marr and Jonny Howat coming on for Brogan Daly. The game became rather tousy for a spell after the hour mark and it was Ashfield that began to come into it more however the visitors still looked dangerous on the break. As the game entered the last 20 minutes, Manager Paul Maxwell brought himself onto the park replacing Baz Hepburn and joining Ryan McManus in attack. All of a sudden the ball managed to `stick` up front and `Maxi` started to win the head flicks and touches allowing Ryan McManus to look his usual dangerous self and with 12 minutes to go another long throw in from Dean Leverage following some pressure saw Maxwell head flick the ball across the goal for an onrushing Jonny Howat to volley past the Dalry Keeper to level proceedings. Ashfield 2 Dalry Thistle 2. The visitors were beginning to struggle and despite trying the hit on the break found the ball coming back. As the clock ticked towards full time another move down the left saw Dean Leverage deliver an excellent cross to the edge of the box, Paul Maxwell was first to react guiding his header between the defenders to an onrushing Ryan McManus who poked the ball post the advancing Dalry Keeper and into the corner of the net to spark celebrations on the park, bench and in the Stand. Ashfield 3 Dalry Thistle 2. The home support thought that was it however had to endure a last minute corner from the visitors. A packed penalty area saw the corner cleared to the edge of the box finding the Dalry No 10 who hammered the ball goalwards only to see the ball headed off the line by the smallest player on the park in Jonny Howat. The Referee blew for time up after this chance as the `field players celebrated victory in a game where they have played a lot better and lost.
It`s Scottish Junior Cup tie action next Friday night as `all roads lead` to Holm Park where Ashfield take on Yoker Athletic in the last 16 - Kick Off 7.30pm.
FT:- ASHFIELD 3 DALRY THISTLE 2
Ashfield`s Team -C Calder, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Marr, S Doherty, B Daly, D Maguire, J Crumlish, R McManus, B Hepburn & A Byrne Subs:- P Maxwell, J Howat, J Barr
Man of the Match:- An exciting climax to the game for the home side after a disappointing performance however Ryan McManus notched up another 2 excellent goals and led the line well coupled with an energetic performance from young Anton Byrne in the Midfield area means this week`s award is shared. Special mention to Dean Leverage for his crossing & long throw-ins and in particular to Paul Maxwell who turned the game in Ashfield`s favour in the last 20 minutes.
Attendance:- 60
Yoker Athletic 3 Ashfield 1 - Macron Scottish Junior Cup 4th Round - Friday 26th November 2021 - Kick-Off 7.30pm
An eagerly awaited Scottish Junior Cup tie with a Quarter Final place at stake for the winners was a huge incentive for both teams going into the Match. Despite the horrendous weather conditions of gale force winds there was an excellent turn out with the queue 20 deep to get in when the Teams entered the Park. Both Glasgow Teams were sporting their traditional strips with Referee Ross Birrell starting proceedings. It was the home side that took the early initiative backed by the wind however the Ashfield back four were on form and were closing the visitors down at every opportunity. Chances were at a premium however as the half wore on Ashfield managed to forage up the park and looked dangerous on the break. The home side were guilty of over-hitting with the wind behind them and Chris Calder in the Ashfield goal was kept relatively quiet. The game was played at a fierce pace and both sides deserved a lot of credit for making it a spectacle in the farcical conditions. As the half headed towards the end and with the `field feeling that they had held out against the wind, the home side struck. A lovely passage of play on the edge of the box saw the ball played into Striker Waddell who found space before driving a low hard shot past Calder and into the bottom corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Yoker Athletic 1 Ashfield 0. A blow for Ashfield however as the Referee brought proceedings to a halt shortly after the visitors knew they had the comfort of the wind behind them in the second half.
HT:- YOKER ATHLETIC 1 ASHFIELD 0
The wind had not subsided at the start of the second half and the travelling support were keen that Ashfield test the impressive Yoker Keeper early on. Again as in the first half chances were at a premium as both midfield`s tussled hard to gain control. The `field were beginning to slowly put the pressure on via a number of long throw-ins from either side and with the introduction of James Gilmartin at the start of the second half the visitors were winning more than their fair share of headers. In the 56th minute Ashfield pulled level after a good old `stramash` in the box. A corner kick was only partially cleared for Darren Macguire to drive goalwards with the ball eventually breaking to Ryan McManus who prodded the ball home through a ruck of players. Yoker Athletic 1 Ashfield 1. The visitors were on top at this stage and a last ditch clearance saved the day for Yoker shortly after. The home side were still foraging forward at every opportunity and the `field were given a couple of warnings. The `field then had to re-organise the back four as John Barr was eventually forced to go off and this would play a vital role in the Match as the big Ashfield defender was having an excellent Match. As the clock was ticking down with now less than 20 minutes to go, Yoker were awarded a corner at the far side of the Ground and the ball was whipped in with pace to the back post, Jack Crumlish managed to get ahead of the forward to clear the ball however ended up scooping the ball into the roof of his own net to the roar from the home support. A real blow for the `field. Yoker Athletic 2 Ashfield 1. Worse was to follow 4 minutes later as the `field tried to regroup. A lovely move down the right flank was played low and hard across the box for the onrushing McDonald who lashed the ball into the net to effectively win the tie for Yoker. Yoker Athletic 3 Ashfield 1. To Ashfield`s credit they kept at it and were desperate to get a goal back quickly. With 5 minutes left on the clock it appeared that Ashfield had scored following another `stramash` inside the box. From the view behind the goal the ball looked like a foot over before being frantically cleared however neither the Referee or Linesman could see properly and the home side managed to escape. That was the last chance Ashfield could manage and it is Yoker Athletic that go into the Quarter Finals where they will travel to either Dyce or Muirkirk.
FT:- YOKER ATHLETIC 3 ASHFIELD 1
Ashfield`s Team:-C Calder, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Barr, S Doherty, J Howat, B Hepburn, J Crumlish, R McManus, A Byrne and D Maguire. Subs:- J Gilmartin, M McManus, J Marr
Man of the Match:- Some good performances last night despite the horrendous conditions with special mention to John Barr however unfortunately for John and for Ashfield he only managed an hour due to injury. Ryan McManus caused a lot of problems throughout the Match to the Yoker back four netting Ashfield`s goal also and wins the award.
Attendance:- 280
Port Glasgow 0 Ashfield 1 - West of Scotland League - Conference B - Saturday 4th December 2021 - Parklea Stadium, Port Glasgow - KO 1.30pm.
A difficult half for the depleted `field side with the home side coming `out the traps` quickly and should have been ahead twice in the first five minutes however the `field regained their composure and came into the game as the half wore on having two excellent chances before the break.
HT:- PORT GLASGOW 0 ASHFIELD 0
The game had not long started again when young Nicky Dickson, promoted from the U20`s side to partner Darren Maguire up front, suffered a horrendous injury with the young player having to be taken straight to Hospital by Committee Member Paul Shevlin with what looked like a double fracture of the arm. A goal 20 minutes from time from Jack Crumlish, who`s 2 goals this season have been against the `Undertakers` ensured the `field came away from a difficult venue with full points. An excellent second half performance from Ashfield as they climb up to the 30 point mark in this competitive League.
FT:- PORT GLASGOW 0 ASHFIELD 1
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Marr, S Doherty, J Barr, M McManus, J Crumlish, J Dickson, D Maguire & J Howat. Subs:- A Byrne and K Flanagan
Man of the Match:- Special mentions to Chris Calder, Sean Doherty and young Nicky Dickson however James Marr put in an excellent shift to keep the Port at bay.
Attendance:- 40
Pic below from Port Glasgow-Ashfield Match in February 2017
Ashfield 6 Glasgow University 2 - West of Scotland Cup sponsored by the Kilmarnock Pie - Saturday 11th December 2021 - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium - K.O. 1.30pm.
It was exactly a year since the Teams last met for the first time in their Club Histories and the Match played at Airdrie F C `s Ground turned out to be a cracker (3-3). The rain welcomed both teams, playing in their traditional strips, onto the tight confines of Saracen Park and as in many games at home this Season, Ashfield started off the game with great pace and energy and were ahead in under 2 minutes. A curling corner from the Springburn end of the Ground found an onrushing Sean Doherty who bulleted a header past the Uni`s Keeper to put the `field ahead. Ashfield 1 Glasgow University 0. Both teams pushed forward at every opportunity during the next 20 minutes however it was the home side that went further ahead on 24 minutes when after a bit of a `stramash` inside the Glasgow University`s box saw Mark McManus poke the ball in with the aid of the deflection to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 2 Glasgow University 0. The visitors were shocked after that and following a corner from the far side the ball found Sean Doherty again and the big Centre Half guided the ball into the roof of the net to put the `field 3-0 up. Ashfield 3 Glasgow University 0. The visitors were struggling at this stage however always looking lively on the break and this is where Ashfield`s 4th came from on the 28th Minute. Dean Leverage broke down a Uni attack and after a lovely series of passing the ball was played through to Darren Maguire 30 yards out. The Ashfield forward ran clear of the visitors defence and as the Uni Keeper advanced he drove the ball passed him and into the far corner of the net. A wonderful move and finish from Ashfield. Ashfield 4 Glasgow University 0. The home support would have cause now to think that the `field were safely into the next round and a meeting with Rossvale, however the visitors had other ideas and before Ashfield could take a breather they were pulled back. A ball was played up to the University No 9 Stirling and as Doherty marked him tightly the big forward swivelled leaving some room before driving the ball into the far corner of Chris Calder`s net. Ashfield 4 Glasgow University 1. This goal sparked the visitors into action again and they went onto to play some excellent football up to half time and got their reward two minutes before the break when the ball was cut back into Stirling`s path and from 18 yards out he lashed the ball into the net to the delight of the visiting support. Ashfield 4 Glasgow University 2. It was `game on` for the second half.
HT:- ASHFIELD 4 GLASGOW UNIVERSITY 2
The rain didn`t abate and was coming down heavier than before with signs now that the Park was beginning to `cut-up`however both teams continued where they left off. Defences were much more on top this half and chances were at a premium with the only half chances available being from set-pieces and long throw-ins. Both teams made also a number of changes with notably Ashfield`s top scorer Ryan McManus being introduced for the last 20 minutes and this had the effect of the ball `sticking` up front. The home side had a let off with 10 minutes to go when a floating header from a corner kick hit the base of the post before being cleared & John Barr for the home side had a free header inside the box however he glanced the ball wide. With 6 minutes to go the game was decided after a lovely ball from Dean Leverage was played behind the Uni back four, Darren Macguire was first onto it and drove the ball home from 20 yards as the Keeper was advancing. An excellent finish from Darren. Ashfield 5 Glasgow University 2. To cap off an excellent all round display the `field rubbed `salt in the wound` when Ryan McManus charged down the Uni Keeper`s clearance and had the easy task of tapping the ball into the empty net for his 24th Goal of the Season. Ashfield 6 Glasgow University 2. An excellent game to watch and the `field are now away to Premiership Rossvale in the next Round - date to be confirmed.
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 GLASGOW UNIVERSITY 2
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Barr, S Doherty, J Marr, D Maguire, J Crumlish, A Byrne, M McManus & J Howat. Subs:- R McManus & B Daly.
Man of the Match:- A great all round display from Ashfield today with many contenders for MOM. The back four worked hard, J Crrumlish was everywhere however Darren Macguire was everywhere today closing down the University back four and scoring 2 goals into the bargain.
Attendance:- 50
Ashfield 6 Carluke Rovers 0 - Saturday 18th December 2021 - West of Scotland League - Conference B - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium - Kick-Off 1.30pm
Ashfield welcomed Carluke Rovers to Saracen Park for their second meeting of the Season. Games between the Teams are always exciting affairs with plenty of goals and it was the same earlier in the Season at the John Cumming Stadium (3-2 for Ashfield). The only concern as the teams arrived at the ground was the freezing fog conditions which did not appear to be lifting much. After reviewing conditions Referee Denholm declared the game on and Ashfield went on to produce an excellent display of attacking Football scoring 6 goals again which was the fifth time they have achieved this feat at home in the League this Season - A tremendous record from the Team.
The game took a while to get going with both teams adapting to the overhead conditions and the sodden surface which had taken a battering in the rain the week before against Glasgow University. The Groundsman Jim McIlroy deserves enormous credit for getting the Park into a decent state again.
Ashfield began to come into the game after a quarter of an hour with much of the success coming from the left flank with Dean Leverage linking up well with Forwards Maguire and McManus and in the 15th minute got their reward. A curling corner down at the Springburn end of the ground was met by an onrushing Sean Doherty and his header crashed into the net off the underside of the bar to put the `field ahead. Ashfield 1 Carluke Rovers 0. Ashfield foraged forward at every opportunity after this as the visitors struggled to get out their half with the Midfield two of Byrne and Marr sweeping up any loose balls. The `field increased their lead in 20 minutes when this time a move this down the right saw Sean Doherty glance a looping header to the far post which sailed over the Keeper`s head and into the net to the delight of the home support. This was Sean`s 10th Goal of the Season. Ashfield 2 Carluke Rovers 0. It was one-way traffic at this stage and Ryan McManus had two volleyed attempts well saved by the Keeper before young Anton Byrne brought the best out of the Rovers keeper also shortly before driving another shot against the bar. On the 35 minute mark Dean Leverage worked well with Byrne who played a lovely through ball to Darren Maguire who evaded the tight offside trap before running in on goal. As the Rovers Keeper narrowed the angle, McGuire guided the ball past him and into the empty net to put the `field further ahead. Ashfield 3 Carluke Rovers 0. The visitors had a decent 10 minute spell after that however found the Ashfield defence in a mean mood and Chris Calder was rarely troubled. Just on half time, Ashfield had a glorious chance to increase their lead after Referee Denholm spotted an infringement in the area and awarded a penalty. The normally reliable Ryan McManus did not get enough power behind his effort and the Carluke Keeper saved well to his right. As the Referee brought proceedings to a close, the home support were hopeful that the game would last the 90 minutes as the fog swirled in.
HT:- ASHFIELD 3 CARLUKE ROVERS 0
Conditions had eased only slightly as both teams started the second half however for the visitors it was a much improved opening spell pinning the `field back for a while. Ashfield`s back four however were in excellent form and restricted efforts into Chris Calder and as the half wore on Ashfield began to take control again. Midway through the second half and the game was over as Referee awarded a second penalty for Ashfieldwith Ryan McManus stepping up again to finish with aplomb for his 25th Goal of the Season. Ashfield 4 Carluke Rovers 0. Ashfield made a couple of substitutes as the unfortunate Dean Leverage limped off however to make matters worse for the visitors shortly after and following a throw in debate, one of the Carluke players got involved in a discussion with the Referee which resulted in a straight Red Card being produced. To `rub salt in the wound` Ashfield increased their lead shortly after when a through ball saw right back Colin Leverage chase and charge down the Carluke Keeper`s clearance breaking kindly before guiding the ball into the net from a difficult angle. An excellent finish from the Ashfield Captain. Ashfield 5 Carluke Rovers 0. Further chances were had before the `field capped off the scoring following a free kick on the right hand side. Ashfield`s left back Brogan Daly whipped the ball into the box and the Ashfield Trialist Substitute glanced a header into the far corner of the net to the delight of the players and support. Ashfield 6 Carluke Rovers 0.
An excellent all-round performance from Ashfield as they climbed up a further place in this very competitive League which also saw Greenock & Glasgow Utd produce excellent results. It is going to be everything to play for when the Season resumes on the 8th January 2022 with Ashfield welcoming Renfrew to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium however in the meantime everyone at Ashfield would like to wish all Junior Fans and in particular their loyal band of supporters a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year..........`mon the `field !
FT:- ASHFIELD 6 CARLUKE ROVERS 0
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, B Daly, J Barr, S Doherty, D Leverage, D Maguire, J Howat, R McManus, J Marr & A Byrne. Subs:- M McManus, B Hepburn, Trialist, K Flanagan
Man of the Match:- A terrific all round display from Ashfield with some excellent performances. Special mention to the whole Back four who didn`t give the visitors a hint of a goal during the afternoon. James Marr & Anton Byrne were energetic in MIdfield however Dean Leverage was the star this week starting so many moves on the left hand side in the first half continuing into the second before he had to go off injured.
Attendance:- 60
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Glasgow United 0 Ashfield 5, West of Scotland League Conference B - Saturday 15th January 2022, Greenfield Park, Shettleston, Glasgow - Kick-Off 1.30pm.
It had been many years since Ashfield had visited Greenfield Park in Shettleston on League Business and we have to go back to Ashfield`s League Winning Season of 2006/2007 for the last time. The Pitch was looking good despite the time of the year and the fact that it had been played on last week in the rain and as the crowd filtered into the Ground this was an eagerly awaited encounter with both teams in a rich vein of form. It had been a terrific game earlier in the Season at Saracen Park with the `field coming back from being 2-0 down early to go ahead 3-2 before conceding an injury time equaliser.
Referee Euan Birch started the proceedings with the home side in their usual strip of all white however the` field had to change from their traditional strip into the 2nd Strip of Red and Grey. The Match started off at great pace albeit a bit frantic with both teams looking to get a stranglehold early on. The home side were playing with confidence and were foraging forward at every opportunity however despite the early pressure Chris Calder in the Ashfield goal was not troubled. In the 18th Minute the best chance fell to the home side when a snap shot from 18 yards out went narrowly over the bar. Ryan McManus was holding the ball up well for Ashfield and was ably supported on the flanks by Anton Byrne and Dean Leverage and just after the half hour mark the visitors made the breakthrough. After an appeal earlier in the game, the `field were awarded a penalty following a cross into the box with Sean Doherty being clearly held back with the Referee having no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Ryan McManus cooly stepped up sending the Keeper the wrong way to record his 26th Goal of the Season. Glasgow United 0 Ashfield 1. This goal `rocked`the home side and the confidence started to ebb away and frustration began to take over. With 4 minutes to go until the Interval the home side were dealt a serious blow as one of the United Players clearly spoke out of turn to the Referee following the awarding of a corner and was shown a straight `Red` Card. To compound the home side`s frustrations the `field went on to increase their lead a minute before half time. A lovely worked move down the left flank saw Dean Leverage`s initial cross blocked however a deft ball into the box saw Sean Doherty outjump his markers and guide a header into the corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. A great time to score for the visitors and an 11th Goal of the Season for the Ashfield Centre Half who was having a great game at the back also. Glasgow United 0 Ashfield 2. Referee Euan Birch brought proceedings to a close shortly after and the home side knew they had a `mountain to climb` in the second half.
HT:- GLASGOW UTD 0 ASHFIELD 2
The home side started off the second half with pace and urgency in a bid to get back into the game and the United `playmaker` Stefan Graham was trying his best to make inroads into the Ashfield defence however the `field`s back four were on top of their game and managed any danger well. On the hour mark the game was effectively over after a terrific goal from Ashfield which started off with Chris Calder gathering the ball and playing it to Sean Doherty. The Ashfield Centre Half found Anton Byrne on the right hand side who then played a wonderful ball to Dean Leverage on the left flank and as the Ashfield midfielder raced down the flank he whipped the ball into the box with Ryan McManus getting ahead of his marker and volleying the ball past the United Keeper to put the `field 3-0 up. A brilliant team goal from Ashfield. Glasgow United 0 Ashfield 3. There seemed no way back for the home side now however they kept on pressing forward at every opportunity however on the 67th Minute the `field retrieved possession and launched a high ball into the box where an onrushing Baz Hepburn outjumped the United Keeper heading the ball into the net to the delight of the players, management and travelling support. Glasgow United 0 Ashfield 4. A number of substitutions were made by both sides with the field bringing on Centre forward Derek Rafferty and Stephen Bryson in a Midfield berth. The game became rather tousy for a while with some heavy tackles and the `field sustained an injury to Ryan McManus who had to go off prior to the subs with a number of stitches being applied to a head wound. The Ashfield substitute `Raffa` who had scored on his previous outing was making his presence felt again up front and with 10 minutes to go got the break of the ball 18 yards out. Initially his first shot was blocked however the Striker drove his second which took a slight deflection before hitting the back of the net for Ashfield`s 5th. Glasgow United 0 Ashfield 5. This had been an impressive performance from Ashfield and their defending, passing and attacking had been excellent against a team who had been `flying` coming into the Match. To compound the home side`s misery last on, their substitute Khan was giving his marching orders for a poor tackle on an Ashfield defender. It`s a break from the League next week as Ashfield head to Petershill Park on West of Scotland Cup duty to play Premiership side Rossvale before welcoming Kello Rovers to Saracen Park, for the first time since 1971, on League business the week after.
FT:- GLASGOW UTD 0 ASHFIELD 5
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, B Daly, J Barr, S Doherty, J Marr, A Byrne, J Crumlish, R McManus, B Hepburn and D Leverage. Subs:- M McManus, D Rafferty, S Bryson and D Maguire
Man of the Match:- The whole team deserve mention as they put on an an excellent show with season best`s from Brogan Daly and Jack Crumlish however Sean Doherty`s performance was immense today and fully deserves the Man of the Match award.
Attendance:- 120
Referee:- Euan Birch
Rossvale 1 Ashfield 0 , West of Scotland Cup sponsored by The Kilmarnock Pie - Saturday 22nd January 2022 - New Petershill Park, Springburn, Glasgow - KO 1.30pm.
Ashfield and Rossvale `locked horns` again at New Petershill Park in the West of Scotland Cup with the `field looking to `test` themselves against one of the Premiership Teams following some recent excellent League and Cup displays. A healthy number watched on as both teams put everything into the Match and apart from some erratic Refereeing this was an enjoyable Cup tie which swung from end to end right up until the final whistle.
Both teams were in their traditional strips as the game started off at a great tempo and the midfield area in particular was extremely competitive. The visitors were aggrieved on a number of early decisions with infringements given against Marr and Crumlish on a regular basis. Chances were at a premium with the impressive Rossvale Keeper commanding his area well and Chris Calder, in the `field goal, was not tested in the opening half hour. The home side began to exert some pressure following the build up to the half time whistle with some lovely intricate football down the left flank where some last gasp clearances from Doherty and in particular Brogan Daly who blocked a curling net bound effort in the 6 yard box. Ryan McManus and Baz Hepburn tested the Vale Keeper from distance before Referee Kennedy brought first half proceedings to a halt on this chilly January afternoon.
HT:- ROSSVALE 0 ASHFIELD 0
The second half was a completely different story as the game opened up and it was Ashfield who took the game to the Vale. In the 55th minute after a lovely move, Ryan McManus found himself played through with the prolific Ashfield striker cutting the ball back into the path of an onrushing Baz Hepburn who drove the ball at goal only to see his deflected shot brilliantly saved by the Vale Keeper as the `field players held their heads. It was a tremendous save however the `field kept up the pressure with a series of corners which were well defended by the home side. Jack Crumlish was everywhere this afternoon and was the subject of some heavy tackling however the Ashfield midfielder was one of the visiting players who found themselves in the Referee`s book as the yellow card tally started to rise. Ashfield had a huge shout for a penalty after the hour mark with again Jack Crumlish involved , it was debatable whether it was inside or outside the box however the Referee waved aside the visitors claims.
With 20 minutes left on the clock and with the `field defence looking on form all of a sudden the home side took the lead . The ball was played out to the right wing and a cross ball was delivered which took a deflection off the left back and sailed over Chris Calder`s head landing in the net to the delight of the home support. A real blow for the `field and against the run of play. Rossvale 1 Ashfield 0. The home side picked up the pace after this and for the next 10 minutes put the `field under pressure. A lovely cross to the far post with 12 minutes remaining should have been been converted however the Rossvale striker guided his header wide of the post. Ashfield made a number of substitutions and really went all out attack putting the Vale defence under pressure with a couple of `stramash`s` inside the box. With 2 minutes left on the clock a lovely floated ball into the box was met by Sean Doherty who`s looping header to the far post missed the goal by inches to the anguish of the travelling support. Jack Crumlish was next in the Referee`s book however this was a 2nd yellow Card for the Ashfield Midfielder for an innocuous challenge and the `field were down to 10 men. There was not much injury time added as the Referee brought proceedings to a close and we wish Rossvale all the best in the next round and for the remainder of the Season.
Ashfield have played a lot worse and won this Season and the disappointment was etched on all the players faces at time up. The `field must `dust themselves` down for the visit of Kello Rovers next Saturday to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium and a chance to progress further up the table however this will be a tough encounter as was the game earlier in the Season when John Barr secured the 3 points in a 3-2 victory.
FT:- ROSSVALE 1 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, B Daly, J Barr, S Doherty, J Marr, B Hepburn, J Crumlish, R McManus, A Byrne and D Leverage. Subs:- M McManus, D Rafferty, S Bryson and D Maguire.
Man of the Match:- Another excellent all round team performance from Ashfield against Premiership opponents. Jack Crumlish was everywhere today and put in an excellent shift and could have had a couple of penalties. He did fall foul of the Referee in the 90th Minute but not before putting on a MoM performance.
Attendance:- 100
Referee:- Ryan Kennedy
Ashfield 1 Kello Rovers 2 - West of Scotland League Conference B - Saturday 29th January 2022 - Kick-Off 1.30pm - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium, Glasgow.
Kello Rovers visited Saracen Park for the first time in over 50 years and upset the home side with a dogged and determined display to take the three points back down to Dumfriesshire. Glasgow, itself, had been `battered` in the last 12 hours by `Storm Malik` and the game was `touch & go` whether to progress or not however after review Referee Steven MacKay decided to start the Match with the hope that conditions would improve.
The `field were on an excellent run of form in the League and had an excellent chance to hoist themselves further up the table. Backed by the ferocious wind the home side pinned back the visitors in the early stages and were rewarded in the 7th minute with a penalty after Ryan McManus was pulled back in the box with the Rovers defender being yellow carded. Ryan McManus drove the ball low and hard with the Rovers Keeper getting a hand to it for his 28th goal of a remarkable season. Ashfield 1 Kello Rovers 0. Ashfield were keen to add to their lead however some over-hitting and sloppy passing ensured that they did not have a period of sustained pressure. In the 20th Minute, David Rafferty, who was starting his first game for Ashfield swivelled inside the box and drove the ball low and hard only to see the excellent Rovers Keeper dive to his right to claw the ball away. Further deliveries into the box caused trouble for Kello who themselves had a few forays into the Ashfield box however found Chris Calder in the `field goal extremely alert in clearing. A short pass back on the half hour mark allowed the Kello forward through on goal however his effort was eventually blocked to the relief of the home support. The pitch itself was beginning to cut up and the surface was proving difficult for both teams and this coupled with the gale force winds impinged on the game`s enjoyment. As Referee MacKay brought proceedings to a halt, the question was how Ashfield would cope being only 1-0 up now facing the wind which was driving towards the Springburn end of the ground.
HT:- ASHFIELD 1 KELLO ROVERS 0
The game started off in the same manner however with Kello on the offensive this time as Ashfield struggled to make much progress into the visitor`s half and the game became bogged down with the Football on show suffering. The visitors, cheered on by good numbers began to put the `field under pressure and on the hour mark the ball was cleared out to penalty spot area to Kello`s Centre Gary Armour. The Rovers forward cut inside before unleashing a left foot drive into the top corner of the net to level proceedings. Ashfield 1 Kello Rovers 1. Ashfield were struggling to stem the flow at this stage and 5 minutes later a looping ball into the box broke to Armour again who was first to react and lashed the ball into the net from 6 yards out to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 1 Kello Rovers 2. This was a blow for Ashfield who made a couple of substitutions introducing Dean Leverage on the left hand side and the Ashfield midfielder began to make a difference with some excellent wing play. Darren Maguire also joined the attack as the `field had their best spell of the second half however came up against some excellent defending and an inspired keeper. As the `field became frustrated passes were going astray as they struggled to adapt to the conditions. Kello began to sit in and thwart Ashfield`s attacks and hit on the break which they did on a couple of occasions. The `field had no answer to breaking down the visitors despite a number of corners and long throw-ins and as Referee MacKay blew for full time, the Ashfield players knew that this result would have a damaging effect to their plans of finishing where they wanted to be. Kello, on the other hand, deserved the applause from their travelling support and will go into their next game v St Cadocs with confidence. As for the `field they must dust themselves down quickly for their next three games which are all away from home starting with Gartcairn next Saturday 5th February,
FT:- ASHFIELD 1 KELLO ROVERS 2
Ashfield`s Team:- C.Calder, C Leverage, B Daly, S Bryson, S Doherty, J Marr, B Hepburn, J Crumlish, D Rafferty, R McManus & M McManus. Subs:- A Byrne, D Maguire, D Leverage, & J Howat
Man of the Match:- There were not many `standouts` in the Black & White hoops today as the Team struggled to adapt to the extremely windy conditions. Chris Calder had an excellent game in goals for Ashfield & often had to act as an additional Centre half at times.
Attendance:- 60
Referee:- Steven MacKay
Gartcairn 4 Ashfield 0, West of Scotland League - Conference B - MTC Park, Airdrie - Saturday 5th February 2022 - K.O.2pm.
The cries for `Summer Football` would have received strong backing for anyone attending the game at a wet and windy MTC Park as two good footballing teams locked horns to try and salvage some sort of respectability as a viewing spectacle and in this regard both teams deserve enormous credit. The scoreline itself was harsh on Ashfield who played some good football but lost preventable goals at key times during the Match coupled with the fact that the visitors had to play the remaining 18 minutes with 10 men after a serious injury to substitute David Rafferty.
There was no `let up` in the Weather as both teams started off at a good tempo with the visitors having the benefit of the wind behind them. Sometimes this can act as a disadvantage in terms of forward passing and the `field were guilty of slightly overhitting in the early stages. However a couple of corners for the visitors caused alarm in the home defence with Sean Doherty winning them both however was unable to test the Keeper. Tommy Coyne, Gartcairn`s recent signing from Linlithgow Rose was linking up well with his fellow strikers Jordan Love and Eddie Ferns and it was the winger Ferns that was looking extremely lively in the opening period delivering some dangerous balls into box. Ashfield almost went ahead in the 20th minute when a Baz Hepburn corner was met by Doherty again and his net bound header cascaded off the back of his fellow colleague John Barr and diverted to safety. The Match swung from end to end with the home side looking lively and could have gone ahead on the half hour mark when Eddie Ferns got away from his marker on the right hand side before delivering an inch perfect cross onto the head of Coyne however his header was well saved by Chris Calder in the Ashfield Goal. The same player delivered a low hard cross shortly after which fizzed across the six yard box however there were no takers much to the relief of the travelling supporters. Ashfield were a bit `shot shy` with the wind behind them and despite knocking the ball about well were unable to trouble the Gartcairn Keeper and with two minutes to half time were hit by a `sucker punch` as the home side took the lead. It was Jordan Love who swivelled in the box and sent a ball through to the back post to an onrushing Tommy Coyne and with the Ashfield defenders appealing for offside the Striker guided the ball past Calder and into the net to the delight of the home support. Gartcairn 1 Ashfield 0. A blow for Ashfield who had defended well during the half however as Referee Thomson brought proceedings to a halt in the wind and driving rain the visitors knew that they were in for a challenging second half against the wind.
HT:- GARTCAIRN 1 ASHFIELD 0
There were no changes at half time for the visitors who were without Strikers Ryan McManus and Darren Maguire this afternoon however their replacements up front Anton Bryne and Baz Hepburn were closing the Gartcairn defenders down at every opportunity. With the game barely started Gartcairn were awarded a Free-Kick 35 yards out. Eddie Ferns drove the ball goalwards catching the wind with the ball flying past the fingertips of Chris Calder to put the home side 2-0 up. It was a spectacular goal from the Ex-Alloa Winger and a set back for the `field. Gartcairn 2 Ashfield 0 . Young Anton Byrne had a half chance inside the Gartcairn box drilling his left foot shot wide of the target shortly after before Paul Maxwell introduced a couple of substitutes putting Dean Leverage and Nicky McLaughlin up front and the visitors began to get some joy with a couple of efforts. Dean Leverage had a shot saved by the Keeper and Ashfield`s link up play was encouraging. The home side however looked extremely dangerous on the break and the `field were wary of this as they foraged forward with Colin Leverage driving forward at every opportunity down the right flank. Ashfield introduced David Rafferty to the forward line up shortly after however after 5 minutes there was a bit of a `stramash`inside the box with Rafferty appearing to catch his studs on the pitch and went down in agony. The game was held up for five minutes as the Ashfield Physio`s worked on the Player where it transpired that his kneecap had been put out of place. The game restarted with the `field now down to 10 men and the home side took full advantage shortly after with a well worked and clinical goal with Jordan Love driving the ball into the corner of the net from the edge of the box to effectively `put the game to bed`. Gartcairn 3 Ashfield 0. The`field were now caught whether to forage forward at every opportunity or sit in and defend however they took the first option and still pushed forward finding the Gartcairn defence in a `mean mood`. As the game went into it`s last minute of injury time an uncharacteristic mistake from Chris Calder when clearing the ball allowed the ball to land at the feet of a Gartcairn forward and despite a couple of valiant blocks the ball was knocked in at the back post by Jordan Love to increase the home side`s lead. Gartcairn 4 Ashfield 0. Referee Robert Thomson blew for the final whistle when the game restarted and the `field will feel a bit rough re the final score as they more than played their part in a weather hampered Match with the scoreline feeling slightly unjust. The `field must `dust themselves` down now for two important League games against Newmains United and Ardeer Thistle away. Gartcairn themselves are chasing Cambuslang Rangers hard for the No 1 spot in the League and are a very good and well balanced team
FT:- GARTCAIRN 4 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, B Daly, J Barr, S Doherty, S Bryson, B Hepburn, J Crumlish, A Byrne, M McManus & J Howat. Subs:- D Leverage, D Rafferty, P Maxwell and N McLaughlin
Man of the Match:- For the second time in 3 weeks, Jack Crumlish put on a terrific show in Midfield, dominating this area against a very good outfit and kept foraging forward throughout the 90 minutes.
Attendance:- 50
Referee:- Robert Thomson
Ashfield 0 St Cadocs 2 , West of Scotland League - Conference B - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium, Glasgow - Saturday 5th March 2022 - KO 2pm.
It was great to get back to the Football after recent postponements due to the adverse weather & Ashfield welcomed St Cadocs to Saracen Park for the first time as both teams looked to end the Season on a high. St Cadocs have had an impressive inaugural season & will be playing in Division 1 next Season thanks to their League position. The `field had it `all to play for` also depending on result between Dalry Thistle & Port Glasgow. Groundsman Jim McIlroy had worked tirelessly on the Pitch this week to ensure the surface was playable albeit pretty soft in patches. The game started off at a good tempo with the visitors having more of the offensive possession in the early stages with chances at a premium. A number of early corners were well defended by Sean Doherty and John Barr at the back for Ashfield and as the half wore on the `field began to make inroads into the visitors box with a succession of corners and long throw-ins. It was good to see Nicky Dickson from the U20 Academy Team returning from injury and worked tirelessly throughout the Match in support of Ryan McManus. It took half an hour for the Match to have it`s first `real` opportunity with a shot being blocked by Calder in the Ashfield goal with the rebound being put into the empty net however Referee David Burns had blown his whistle for offside. Calder in the `field goal was shortly tested again from a corner with a header from Gallacher which he pushed aside. Jack Crumlish was winning the midfield battle & the visitors were becoming frustrated as the game approached half time with the `field winning a number of free-kicks. As the Referee brought proceedings to a halt, the crowd knew that the game would open out in the second half.
HT:- ASHFIELD 0 ST CADOCS 0
The second half started off at a good tempo with Ashfield attacking the Possilpark end of the Ground and for the first 15 minutes of the second half were on top however found clear cut chances at a premium. Jonny Howat was having some luck down the right hand flank and a couple of low crosses caused concern in the St Cadocs back four. Dean Leverage was also pushing forward down the other flank and was also maximising the use of the long throw in. As the half wore on defences remained on top with the game punctuated with free-kicks which regurarly halted the play. The home support were buoyed during the half by the score coming in from Dalry which more or less guarantees Division 2 Football for the `field next season and is a good reward for some of the excellent performances this season. Just as the `field were looking at keeping a clean sheet, the home side `switched off` for a second allowing a quick free kick to be taken to an onrushing Dykes who lashed the ball past Chris Calder to put St Cadocs ahead. Ashfield 0 St Cadocs 1 . The `field were acutely aware of the potential danger of Dykes in Midfield and up to now had kept him quiet. With only 10 minutes to go, Paul Maxwell made a couple of substitutions bringing on himself up front and also moving Sean Doherty forward in a bid to salvage the Match. Dean Leverage shortly after made a mazy run down the left flank evading a number of tackles before cutting the ball back across the penalty box however the cross was too strong for the onrushing Ashfield forwards. As is typical with the `field pushing forward they were hit on the break and after an initial scare when Chris Dallas drove a shot against the outside of the post, it was Dallas himself who took advantage of another St Cadocs breakaway finishing with aplomb as the ball was cut back to him from the left flank to finish the game. Ashfield 0 St Cadocs 2. A harsh scoreline for the home side who had put a lot into the Match however they must dust themselves down for a tricky visit to Thorniewood United, a ground where they have done well in the past at.
FT:- ASHFIELD 0 ST CADOCS 2
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Barr, S Doherty, J Howat, N Dickson, J Crumlish, R McManus, A Byrne & S Bryson Subs:- P Maxwell, M McManus, JP Newton, G Chalmers & Trialist.
Man of the Match:- A hard working performance from Ashfield today who defended well and pushed forward at every opportunity. Sean Doherty was towering in the air at the back and eventually moved forward in the last 10 minutes to try & salvage the Match. Jack Crumlish continued his excellent form and coped well with the talented St Cadocs midfield so both players share this week`s award.
Attendance:- 50
Referee:- David Burns
Ardeer Thistle 0 Ashfield 2 , Ardeer Stadium, Stevenston, Ayrshire - Saturday 19th March 2022 - KO 2pm - West of Scotland League - Conference B
A difficult game was expected against Sean Kenney`s team this afternoon at Ardeer, who have been a credit to themselves and the League with their performances this Season. The usual vociferous home crowd welcomed both teams onto the pitch with the assistance of some Red and Black flares as Referee Jamie Wilkie blew for action. The `field had to make a number of alterations to the Team with young Anton Byrne starting in goals again. The game started at a great pace with the home side shooting on site and created a couple of chances in the opening minutes. The `field knew they were in for a tough afternoon however in the 3rd Minute were awarded a free kick which was whipped into the Ardeer box where John Barr got his head to the ball glancing it into the far corner of the net to the delight of the travelling supporters. That was John Barr`s 4th goal of the Season & every goal he scores is always a vital one. Ardeer Thistle 0 Ashfield 1. The home side were rocked by this however kept foraging forward at every opportunity. The Ardeer No 9 Wilson was again a stand out and a couple of times he weaved in and out of the Ashfield defence before being eventually closed down. Anton Byrne also had to look lively with a number of long range shots. Ashfield were quite content to hit on the break at this stage and it was proving very effective. With 20 minutes gone a lovely through ball to Ryan McManus saw Ardeer Keeper Jack McLaughlin arrive at the ball first however was clearly well outside his box & Referee Wilkie has no hesitation in showing a Red Card with the Keeper being replaced by Ross McRonald who was called into action saving Ryan McManus`s driven free kick. Ashfield were beginning to have a good deal of success down the right flank with Colin Leverage & Jonny Howat working well together and delivering some excllent balls into the middle which on the whole were well dealt with. The game exploded in the 35th minute when a 50-50 challenge saw the Ardeer Centre half Howie appear to catch Jack Crumlish high and following some heated discussions with the players, the Referee deemed the infringement a Red card offence and the home side were down to 9 men. Ashfield picked up the pace before half time and should have put the `game to bed` when a lovely cross by Howat saw Dean Leverage inside the 6 yard box however the young Left back who was having a good game miscued his shot which trickled wide of the gaping goal to the anguish of the Ashfield bench. Referee Wilkie brought proceedings to a halt shortly after and the home side knew they would be up against it in the second half.
HT:- ARDEER THISTLE 0 ASHFIELD 1
The expected pressure from the `field took a while to materialise in the Second half against the nine men and it was Ardeer that were picking up the plaudits with their well organised defence and occasional forays up the park to support striker Wilson. Despite having a lot of possession the visitors found it difficult to create many openings. A change to the line up was made and substitute Baz Hepburn brought out a wonderful save from the Ardeer Keeper palming the ball over the bar. Shots from Ryan McManus and Jonny Howat also tested the Ardeer Keeper before Paul Maxwell brought on himself in a bid to get the elusive second goal and as the game approached the final minutes it was Baz Hepburn down the left flank who was brought down in the box with the Referee taking his time before pointing to the spot. Ryan McManus stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way for his 29th Goal of the Season and also to seal the Match. Ardeer Thistle 0 Ashfield 2. An excellent result for Ashfield which secures promotion to the 2nd Division however it was one of those games where the `field have probably played better and lost in games this season however they all put in an excellent shift in the Ayrshire heat. Well done the `field and they now have three games to go and the priority will be to gather as many points as possible to see how far up the League they can finish.
FT:- ARDEER THISTLE 0 ASHFIELD 2
Ashfield`s Team:- A Byrne, C Leverage, D Leverage, J Barr, S Doherty, S Bryson, J Howat, J Crumlish, R McManus, J Marr & M McManus Subs:- G Chalmers, B Hepburn and P Maxwell.
Man of the Match:- A very warm afternoon in Ardeer yesterday so plenty resilience & energy was needed and it is a great credit to himself that Mark McManus was everywhere yesterday , starting most attacks and marshalling the left hand side of Midfield against difficult opponents.
Attendance:-102
Referee:- Jamie Wilkie
Ashfield 2 Renfrew 4, West of Scotland League - Conference B, Saturday 26th March 2022 - 2pm Kick Off - Peugeot Ashfield Stadium, Glasgow.
An excellent atmosphere greeted both teams onto Saracen Park this afternoon with the aid of the Ashfield Academy Teams as the curtain was brought down on Ashfield`s home games in Conference B of the new West of Scotland League. It was also time to wish the current Management Team `all the best` as they are to step down at the end of the Season with the new Management Team set to take over for next Season. There was still a lot to play for in particular our visitors who had faint hopes of 4th Place and they were hoping to continue their good record against Ashfield over recent years and were backed by a sizeable travelling support.
The Match started off at great pace and despite the dry & bumpy underfoot conditions this game lived up to it`s expectations with the first chance as early as the 2nd minute following a long throw in on the right. As he had done last week at Ardeer, John Barr managed to get ahead of his marker however his effort today missed the far post by inches. Ryan McManus was holding the ball up well too, linking up well with the flanks and it was the home side who should have been ahead after 6 minutes when McManus played in young Anton Byrne however as the Ashfield midfielder was about to let fly the ball took a `bobble`on the surface and his effort was miscued. Renfrew were also looking lively up front and had a number of dangerous corners which on the whole were well dealt with by the Ashfield back four. The match was very competitive especially in the midfield area and Referee Haswell was keen to let the game flow. After 27 it was the home side who eventually made the breakthrough after neat play in the box saw Ryan McManus make space for himself before driving the ball low and hard into the corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Renfrew 0. This was Ryan`s 30th Goal of a remarkable season. The visitors responded again with a series of corner kicks as the Ashfield defence held firm however as the game approached Half Time, the `frew were awarded a free-kick 25 yards out on the right hand side. The ball was curled right into the six yard box evading a couple of Ashfield defenders however it was Renfrew`s Scott Morton who latched onto the ball drilling the ball past Calder in the Ashfield goal to the roar of the travelling support . Ashfield 1 Renfrew 1. A bad time to lose a goal for Ashfield as the Referee had barely time to restart the Match before blowing for Half time.
HT:- ASHFIELD 1 RENFREW 1
The terrific weather conditions continued throughout the second half as the game began to get stretched after the hour mark and the game became the `Scott Morton` show as the game swung from being a tight 1-1, to a 4-1 lead for Renfrew all within a 20 minute period midway though the second half. Ashfield were caught out on the hour mark when a ball over the back four found an onrushing Morton nip ahead of the advancing Ashfield Keeper Calder to guide a header over the Keeper`s head and into the net to put the visitors ahead. Ashfield 1 Renfrew 2. Ashfield made a couple of substitutes shortly after with Baz Hepburn and Paul Maxwell coming on to bolster the attack and a couple of set pieces caused danger in the `frew defence however just as the `field were building up a head of steam the visitors were awarded a corner on the left hand side shooting into the Springburn end of the Ground. A lovely corner to the edge of the six yard box was met by Scott Morton again and the `frew striker guided a header past Calder for his hat-trick. Ashfield 1 Renfrew 3. Worse was to follow for Ashfield following some good play from the home side as the `field were hit by a `sucker punch` 4th goal. Ashfield were unluckly not to pull a goal back after a terrific save from the `frew keeper following a corner and header from John Barr which Ryan McManus managed to get a touch to also. The home side were made to pay as a lovely move down the right hand side saw Scott Morton break clear of his marker and as the Ashfield Keeper advanced he lobbed the ball into the far corner of the net to put Renfrew 4-1 up. A very good finish indeed. Ashfield 1 Renfrew 4. Ashfield were left a bit `shell shocked` however they kept foraging forward at every opportunity with Sean Doherty going up front to assist the attack and the home side were rewarded shortly after following a corner. Dean Leverage whipped in the kick & Sean Doherty bulleted a header into the roof of the net to reduce the deficit. Ashfield 2 Renfrew 4. Ryan McManus was next up with a left foot drive which was well saved by the `frew keeper and Jack Crumlish had an excellent volley from the edge of the box narrowly miss the upright. The home side kept up a good pace until Referee Haswell brought proceedings to a close and Renfrew`s good record against the `field continues. Ashfield will have played a lot worse this Season and won as both sets of fans gave the players a good reception as they trooped off the park at time up.
FT:- ASHFIELD 2 RENFREW 4
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, M McManus, J Barr, S Doherty, S Bryson, A Byrne, J Crumlish, R McManus, J Marr & D Leverage. Subs:- G Chalmers, B Daly, P Maxwell & B Hepburn
Man of the Match:- Many contenders for this week`s award with good performance from a number in the Black & White hoops however most of the danger came from Ryan McManus with his excellent hold up play & first half goal, which is his 30th Goal of a remarkable Season.
Attendance:- 150
Referee:- Ross Haswell
Newmains United 0 Ashfield 3, Victoria Park, Newmains - Saturday 9th April 2022 - KO 2pm. West of Scotland League - Conference B
The `deceptive` Sunny conditions overhead masked a chilly wind as both teams entered the Victoria Park playing surface. The Ground itself has improved due to some hard work from the New Management Team & Committee and there was a good `feel` to the Club despite some mixed results. The `field lined up with Nicky Dickson and Greg Chalmers from the U20`s Team and were joined later by Conor Beecham. Both teams were fully committed early on resulting in chances at a premium. Referee Josh Hay was letting the game flow and it was the visitors that began to create chances from set pieces and in particular corners down the left flank. A few narrow escapes for the home side as the ball bounced about the box on a couple of occasions coupled with a couple of Ashfield players straying offside in their bid to get the opener. The home side were playing neat and tidy football in Midfield however were restricted to long range effort`s at Chris Calder`s goal. Ashfield continued to remain patient and with 5 minutes left on the clock they got their reward when a through ball from Brogan Daly eventually found Ryan McManus who managed to retrieve the ball from the home defence before firing in a shot into the bottom left hand corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Newmains United 0 Ashfield 1. The `field heaved a sigh of relief as they upped the tempo after this and with seconds remaining of the half dealt the home side a major blow when Midfielder Dean Leverage scored his 2nd goal of the Season. A quick through in from Colin Leverage found Ryan McManus who played a lovely ball down the right hand side to young Nicky Dickson, The Ashfield forward cut in and found Dean Leverage on the edge of the six yard box with his pass. `Deano` swivelled before steadying himself and unleashed a shot into the roof of the net to put the `field 2-0 up. A real blow for the home side who had fought hard in the first half. Newmains Utd 0 Ashfield 2.
HT:- NEWMAINS UTD 0 ASHFIELD 2
It had been a tight first half however as the game wore on, it was the `field who took control with wave after wave of attacks. The home defence were still in a `mean` mood and again clear cut chances were at a premium with Ashfield`s best efforts coming from set pieces. John Barr hit the bar with a header and Sean Doherty, normally so prolific from corners guided a couple of headers narrowly over. The `field thought they had increased their lead on the 70th minute when a net bound effort was touched in by Nicky Dickson however Referee Hay disallowed the goal for offside. Both teams made a number of substitutes as the `field foraged forward in search of a third. Colin Leverage was having a great game on the right flank and a number of cross balls were not taken advantage of however with a couple of minutes left on the clock the visitors got their third. A long clearance from Keeper Chris Calder found Nicky Dickson who then in turn found Mark McManus on the right hand side and his first time cross was met by Ryan McManus who guided the ball into the net for his 32nd Goal of the Season, Newmains United 0 Ashfield 3. This victory ensured the `field climbed 3 places in the League and sit currently 6th with one game to go at the end of the Month (30th) at Robertson Park against Thorniewood United.
FT:- NEWMAINS UTD 0 ASHFIELD 3
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage, B Daly, J Barr, S Doherty, G Chalmers, N Dickson, J Marr, R McManus, D Leverage & M McManus. Subs:- C Beecham, S Bryson & P Maxwell
Man of the Match:-Some good performances in the Black and White hoops this afternoon however many of the moves started down the right hand flank with Colin Leverage prominent in foraging forward for the `field.
Attendance:-52
Referee:- Josh Hay
Thorniewood United 1 Ashfield 0, Robertson Park, Uddingston - West of Scotland League - Conference B - Saturday 30th April 2022 - KO 2pm.
The curtain finally fell on Conference B for Season 2021-2022 with the last remaining fixture being played between two teams who have had good Seasons albeit Thorniewood Utd are still involved in the West of Scotland Cup next Saturday against Benburb at New Tinto Park. The curtain also fell on the current Management Team at Ashfield after 4 Seasons and 98 Competitive games and Paul Maxwell, Ryan Dakhill and Ryan Cairley can be very proud of their achievements and with a bit of luck in some of the Cup Competitions may have even taken the `field further. It was not to be and neither was a victory in a frustrating afternoon where after a slow start the `field went on to dominate the game for large spells inn the second half however the wrong ball, final pass, a well marshalled defence and some good goalkeeping ensured a winning end was not be had.
After a week of improving weather both teams entered the Park to steady rainfall which however did not affect the crowd with well over 100 in the ground before Kick-Off. A positive start from the `field soon fizzled out as the home side played some excellent Football for the first 20 minutes testing the `field down both flanks with the prolific forwards of Ally Small and Declan Brown looking menacing and ably backed up by Bowie and McLauchlan. After a goal line clearance in the 10th minute another clearance by the Ashfield defence was made in the 14th minute with the ball landing at the feet of Thorniewood`s right back Watt who drilled a low hard shot through a ruck of players and in off the post to put the home side 1-0 up. Thorniewood Utd 1 Ashfield 0. Ashfield had to defend well at this stage as the hosts pressed forward at every opportunity and shortly after a curling 20 yard effort from Bowie crashed off the crossbar and was cleared to safety with Calder in the Ashfield goal helpless. Another snap shot following a corner missed Ashfield`s post by inches however as the half wore on the visitors began to assert themselves with Colin Leverage and Jack Crumlish linking up well and a number of corners were had. John Barr and Sean Doherty managed to win some headers following these however did not trouble Smith in the Thorniewood Goal. Referee Hay was kept busy during the first half as the game was played in an extremely competitIve manner and a couple of players were already walking on a `tightrope` going into the second half.
HT:- THORNIEWOOD UTD 1 ASHFIELD 0
The second half started off at great pace again and it was Ashfield`s turn to `turn the screw` in the early part of proceedings with good tempo and sustained pressure and should have been rewarded in the 55th MInute when after a series of disappointing corners which failed to clear the `first man`a further corner was met by an onrushing Stephen Bryson who missed the gaping goal by inches. Ryan McManus was next to try however was crowded out by the `wood defence. A lovely sweeping move on the hour mark saw the ball played through to Baz Hepburn however the Ashfield forward took the wrong option by trying to cut the ball back instead of shooting and the ball was cleared. Shortly after a looping header by Sean Doherty failed to trouble Smith in the `wood goal before a number of substitutions were made. The home side were quite happy at this stage to soak in the pressure and hit Ashfield on the break with Small playing down the right flank now however with 15 minutes to go the prolific Thorniewood striker was injured in a tackle with Brogan Daly and much to the dismay of the home support was carried off in a lot of pain. We wish him well for a speedy recovery. The visiting support were wondering if Paul Maxwell would make an appearance however the Ashfield legend let the current team try and salvage a point. Despite a valiant effort the game ended with the hosts securing an impressive 60 point haul and only 2 points off 2nd Place. Ashfield have played worse and won this Season and again it was good to see two of the U20`s Team put on a good show.
FT:- THORNIEWOOD UTD 1 ASHFIELD 0
Ashfield`s Team:- C Calder, C Leverage (Capt), B Daly, J Barr, S Doherty, S Bryson, B Hepburn, J Crumlish, R McManus, J Marr and G Chalmers. Subs:- D Leverage, N Dickson, P Maxwell, R Dakhill
Attendance:- 120
Referee:- Josh Hay
