Match Report

By Brian Bennett

Heaton Stannington substitute Sado Djalo scored a late winner as Ashington experienced a bit of déjà vu in this NPL East Division clash on Bank Holiday Monday.

Conceding goals at the death is becoming a recurring theme for Marc Ellison’s side. After Dunston’s Ben Ramsey netted in the final minute to force a 1-1 draw last week, the Colliers were on course to share the spoils at Willow Park, until ‘keeper Matty Alexander made an impulsive decision with just over 30 seconds remaining.

As Djalo chased a ball down the left flank, Alexander came charging out of his area. The home striker got to the ball first to nick the ball past the number one then from a tight angle, slotted his shot just inside the far post.

It was a touch ironic that after a crowd of over 500 had witnessed a low key contest, there should be high drama so close to the end.

The first period had been a cagey affair which produced less than a handful of chances but former Collier Cyril Giraud was heavily involved.

The Stan enjoyed more possession in the first 20 minutes before Ashington – who grew into game – had a similar period where they had more of the ball.

In the 11th minute, Josh Gilchrist played the ball back to Liam Henderson whose shot was deflected for a corner.

More than half way through, a cross by Giraud led to an almighty scramble in front of goal. Dale Pearson was denied with Alexander eventually clutching the ball.

Ten minutes before the interval, Gilchrist and Henderson combined again but the latter was thwarted when Giraud produced a superb tackle inside the box.

With seconds of the period remaining, a clever back flick by Pearson set up Giraud who blasted an effort into the side netting from 20 yards.

Ashington never got started after half time and within two minutes, found themselves a goal down with Giraud breaking the deadlock.

Following a throw-in on the right, the ball found Giraud whose low left footer from the edge of the area beat Alexander and found the corner.

Minutes later, a header by Ben Milburn from a free-kick looked a certain goal until Alexander dived full stretch to his left to push the ball away then the stopper held a shot from Cam Gascoigne.

Ashington theatened when Scott Fenwick played a one-two but his effort was held by home ‘keeper Dan Lister then Giraud cut inside from the left and fizzed a right footer just wide.

The introduction of Benji Shodeinde gave the Colliers a new dimension and in the 84th minute, it was the substitute who forced a corner on the right which led to a terrific equaliser from Ryan Donaldson.

Scott Lowery failed to get a good connection on the ball but when it ran into the path of Donaldson, he rifled it home from 18 yards.

When Alexander pushed away an effort from Giraud, Ashington must have thought they had secured a point – but they fell to their first league defeat of the season when Djalo had the final say.

*On Saturday (September 5) Ashington take on Bridlington Town at Woodhorn Lane (3pm) with the Colliers offering free entry to Blue Light card holders. On their social media platforms, Ashington announced the fabulous gesture as a thank you following a recent fire behind Woodhorn Lane which came dangerously close to their floodlights and stands. A statement read: “We were fortunate that serious damage was avoided, thanks in large part to the swift response of Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, who quickly brought the fire under control. At a time when our communities are facing growing challenges, our emergency services and frontline workers continue to be there when they are needed.”

The statement went on: “While the idea came from wanting to recognise and thank the firefighters who responded that evening, we wanted to extend the gesture to those working across our other emergency and frontline services who are there for people every day. It’s a small way for Ashington AFC to show our appreciation and simply say thank you.”