Match Report

By Brian Bennett

Alexander Duhameau’s goal for Sherwood Colliery ten minutes into the second half saw Ashington tumble to their second home defeat of the season in the Northern Premier League East Division on Saturday.

The result was one issue – but the thing which irked home supporters was the overall performance.

Not only was it Ashington’s worst showing of the campaign – it was their poorest display for many years.

Conditions were perfect at kick off but it was a day when nothing went right for the Colliers and was topped off when ‘keeper Ross Coombe was sent off for a second yellow card after the final whistle.

The first half was a tedious affair with little in the way of goalmouth action.

The first opportunity came in the 12th minute following a move down the left and when the ball was crossed, Harry Bircumshaw’s goalbound volley was tipped away by Coombe.

Ashington struggled to make any inroads whilst Sherwood defended well – so much so that the home side were restricted to a couple of efforts from distance.
The second half promised so much. Surely after an opening 45 minutes of lethargic action including a distinct lack of quality, things could only get better.

Marginally they did.

Craig Spooner had a shot deflected wide of the post before Duhameau’s low left footer into the far corner put the visitors in front,

In the 77th minute, Paddy Almond was penalised for a foul on Duhameau and the striker had the opportunity to double the lead from the penalty spot but saw his effort magnificently saved by Coombe diving to his right.

Yet whilst home supporters vented their general frustration, Ashington could and should have got back on terms in the dying embers of the contest.

Four minutes into time added on, Craig Spooner was the provider of a superb cross from the right but Michael Ndiweni headed wide of the upright.

And that was as good as it got ……