Robins triumph in FA Trophy as Curzon crash out

FA Trophy: Ashton United 3-3 York City (Ashton win 3-2 on penalties)

Ashton fought back from a two goal half time deficit against the National League North favourites to continue their FA Trophy adventure. Sam Sheridan was drafted in at right back to replace the departed John Lufudu and in a high-energy opening Millenic Alli’s cross for the hosts eventually reached Tom Bentham whose low effort was saved and a patient build up at the other end saw Michael Woods shoot well over.

On 14 minutes the Minstermen moved ahead as Olly Dyson rifled home from just outside the area after Michael Raynes’ clearing header had fallen to him and 5 minutes later Dyson’s cross was tucked home at the far post by Woods after a hurried clearance by Greg Hartley. Immediately Alli brought the Robins back into the contest as his cross was helped over the line by visiting keeper Jameson.

On 25 minutes a clearing header put Jack Redshaw away for York and he finished underneath Hartley and a cross then reached Dyson whose shot was deflected through to the keeper. After the restart Harvey Macadam was crowded out at the near post from Alli’s cross but 10 minutes in captain Brewster picked up a loose ball and fed Macadam who finished for his first goal for the club.

On the hour Redshaw fired narrowly wide from Dyson’s clever back heel but Ashton now had their tails up and Brewster picked out Louis Almond who steadied before steering wide but with 14 minutes left the hosts were level as Ben Hardcastle’s pass released Almond and his cross was converted close in by fellow sub Brad Lynch. Right on time Hartley pulled off a fine save from Guilyfoyle who had been played clear in the area thus ensuring a penalty shoot out.

After Alli had seen his kick saved Dyson and McLaughlin both missed the target for York to see Ashton through to a home tie against Kettering Town.

Meanwhile, across town, Curzon Ashton's poor run of form continued with a 4-1 defeat to current holders AFC Fylde. 

Picture by John Porter