By Brian Bennett
It was an ecstatic Marc Ellison who punched the air with delight at the final whistle on Saturday after his side had won 2-0 against Brighouse Town in West Yorkshire.
The victory finally blew the relegation clouds away which had hovered menacingly over the Woodhorn Lane outfit for several months.
The interim boss congratulated every one of his players and staff before heading towards the magnificent support which his side had received on the day from the Ashington fans.
“We got there in the end!” said Ellison, “That was a proper professional performance, especially in the second half. We played some really good football on what wasn’t an easy pitch. First half, we controlled the game but it just felt like we had the handbrake on a little bit – like there was another level we hadn’t quite hit yet. Then you hear the other results coming in, we miss the penalty, and you start thinking… is it going to be one of those days again? At half-time, the message was simple: a bit more purpose, a bit more intensity, just be more aggressive in what we’re doing. And to be fair to them, the response in the second half was outstanding. I thought we were really, really good. The two goals that got ruled out for offside – honestly, they were probably the two best team goals we’ve scored all season. Both were brilliant moves and everything you want to see in how we play.”
He continued: “But it’s not just about today. When we came in after Christmas (myself and Karl Ross as interim managers), the brief was clear – stay in the league. And we’ve done that. I’m absolutely delighted for everyone at the club, the staff behind the scenes, and the supporters”
Ellison praised the squad: “Ultimately, it’s all down to the players. We’ve pretty much torn up what was there before and completely changed the style of play and every single one of them (the players) has bought into it. They’ve been brilliant – on the pitch, around the place, and with me as well, which isn’t always easy given I was in the dressing room with them not too long ago. They’ve picked up big points and delivered some outstanding performances along the way.”
Ellison concluded: “Whatever happens next, they (the players) should be really proud of themselves. And hopefully, this gives everyone associated with the club a big lift going into next season so they can push on and keep improving.”