Stalybridge Celtic ended their pre-season campaign in style over the weekend with a 2-1 win over Tameside neighbours Ashton United.
The NPL West side saw off their Premier Division competitors at Hurst Cross thanks to strikes from Jack Irlam and Benni Smales-Braithwaite.
Celtic took the lead at the end of an uneventful first half, with Irlam bundling home from close range after Andy Scarisbrick’s initial effort was parried away by Tommy Taylor, before Obua Mugalula saw his effort flash just wide moments later.
Jon Macken’s side then doubled their advantage 15 minutes from time when substitute Smales-Braithwaite swept home from the edge of the box, before a late strike from a Robins trialist proved to be nothing more than a consolation.
“It was a really good performance,” revealed Macken following the win.
“It was physically demanding on the lads, and technically, we played really well.
“I thought we just looked solid, and overall, it was a really good test for us.”
Both sides begin their 2026/27 NPL campaigns this Saturday, with Stalybridge travelling to Runcorn Linnets, in a repeat of last year’s play-off semi final, while Ashton host Lancaster City.
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