The Nash make it four wins from four

Curzon Ashton made it four wins in a row in all competitions when they defeated Matlock Town in the second round of the FA Trophy on Saturday (November 18).

The Nash were full of confidence going into this one after three straight wins in the National League North prior to the match.

Curzon got off to a flying start at the Tameside Stadium, taking the lead after just five minutes when forward Stefan Mols glanced in a cross from Jordan Richards to put his side ahead.

The hosts had a chance to double their lead moments later when Adam Barton found space on the edge of the box, but his shot flew over the top of the crossbar.

Barton was involved again moments later when he was slipped in by Jordan Richards, but the midfielder's effort was a tame one which was straight as the goalkeeper.

Craig Mahon’s side thought they had doubled their lead just after the hour mark when Stefan Mols had the ball in the net for the second time, but the celebrations were halted by the linesman’s raised flag.

Minutes later substitute Rhys Hughes struck the crossbar with a stunning long-range strike, the forward was inches away from a debut goal, having only been on the pitch for a matter of moments.

With 20 minutes to go, Stefan Mols had the ball in the net for the third time in the match, only to be denied once again by the flag.

The Nash had to count on shot-stopper Cam Mason just before the end as he was sprung into action, producing an excellent one one-on-one save to deny the visitors an equaliser.

The home side then sealed their place in the next round when Will Hayhurst converted from the spot in added time, after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Rhys Hughes.

Another home tie awaits The Nash in the third round of the competition, they will face Macclesfield at the Tameside Stadium on December 9.

Curzon were back in action in the league on Tuesday (November 21) with an away trip to the league’s third-placed side South Shields.

Craig Mahon’s side came away from the North East with a hard-earned point, after playing out a goalless draw.

They were a tad unlucky not to win the game, hitting the woodwork on a couple of occasions but nevertheless, their unbeaten run which now stands at five games remains intact ahead of their away trip to Banbury United on Saturday (November 25).