Robins Take The Honours In Ashton Derby

Two second half goals were enough to see the hosts to their first victory of the season in the local derby after they had been reduced to 10 men shortly after half time following the dismissal of Sam Baird.

Another sunny day at Hurst Cross saw the first appearance of Jack Kenny at centre forward for the hosts although it was strike partner Callum Saunders who was initially unable to control Ben Hough’s left wing cross. 

Midway through the half Hancock sent a dangerous cross over for Curzon after collecting Waring’s flick on and Mahon’s ball into the area saw Hall making insufficient contact.

The crowd of 302 then saw Hancock’s raking 20 yard effort deflected wide before Saunders guided Cole Lonsdale’s free kick narrowly wide of the right hand post and on the stroke of half time another Lonsdale free kick just evaded both Kenny and Saunders.

The second period was only four minutes old when Baird saw red for a late challenge and ex-Robin Craig Mahon tricked his way to the by line only to see his cross blocked by Regan.

Next a long ball over the top saw Saunders hold off Barton before placing his effort wide of Renshaw and Regan then burst forward and released Lonsdale who hit a fine left foot effort just wide. 

Regan’s header was then cleared in front of the keeper from Lonsdale’s corner  and Dimaio struck a 30 yard effort off target for the visitors.

Regan was again alert to crowd out Peers just in time and with five minutes remaining a trialist robbed the Curzon defence and, having rounded Renshaw steadied before calmly sliding home the second goal. 

The last word went to Ashton’s stand in keeper who was required to make a decent low save at the foot of the post after Lowe had made room for a shot.

The Robins return to action on Friday night at Daisy Hill, 7.45pm kick-off

Team: Hartley, trialist, Warren, Regan, Baird, Brewster, Hardcastle, Hough, Kenny, Saunders, Lonsdale. Subs: Sheridan, Harrop, Simpson & three trialists.