Curzon Ashton prepared to take on Ashton United in the first round of the Manchester Premier Cup on the back of a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Bradford Park Avenue last Saturday. Their hosts, and local rivals, Ashton United found themselves in worse for, entering the proceedings on the back of four defeats on the bounce.

Adam Lakeland named a drastically changed lineup to the side that suffered defeat at Bradford, with George Waring, Craig Hobson and Jordan Richards all handed starts. A number of youth players and trialists also lined up for The Nash, alongside Connor Dimaio and Josh Ollerenshaw in between the sticks. Michael Clegg named a strong side for the hosts as they look to retain the trophy, they won last season.

However, it was the youthful Curzon side that started the game strongest, and this was no more apparent than when Dillon Edmonson grabbed the opener. The youngster latched onto a loose ball that was knocked back by Mitchell Pickersley to produce a finish way beyond his years, smashing past Hartley in goal for the hosts.

Edmonson continued his good form, winning a free kick in a dangerous area for The Nash. It was to be Connor Dimaio who stepped up and wrapped the ball just shy of the right upright. The Robins first real chance came from the head of Battersby, who forced Ollerenshaw into the first of a few top saves on the night.

Adam Lakeland and his side would’ve entered the break happy with their first half performance, one that somewhat surprised most on the night. However, that joy would be short-lived as the hosts managed to find an equaliser a quarter of an hour after the interval.

Rookie midfielder Eoin Hogan conceded a free-kick in a dangerous area, and following a great ball in, Matty Regan was there to smash in the leveller. Just 10 minutes later, Ollerenshaw was in the right place at the right time to thwart another great chance. The match continued in that fashion for the remainder of play, with the best chance of the game falling to the feet of Callum Saunders. The striker found himself unmarked, 8-yards from goal, but could only volley over.

With the score level at full-time, the game proceeded as a penalty shootout. Unfortunately for The Nash, and despite missing a chance to win the game, it didn’t quite happen for Adam Lakeland’s side.

Curzon will now be turning their attention to the FA Cup, as they prepare to play Peterborough Sports in the fourth-qualifying round, meanwhile, The Robins take on Stalybridge in the NPL Premier Division.

Written by Rhys Jones