- HILL: “I’VE GOT MIXED EMOTIONS”By Brian Bennett It’s probably a rare occasion – if ever at all – that the manager of a winning team will look sombre when he conducts his postmatch press conference – but Ashington FC joint head coach Richie Hill unfortunately did following his sides 3-2 win over neighbours Morpeth Town at Craik Park on… Read more: HILL: “I’VE GOT MIXED EMOTIONS”
- EMILY ROBERTSON JOINS AS SPORTS THERAPISTAshington AFC would like to welcome their newest and final member of the 2024/25 management team: Emily Robertson. Emily has been appointed as the team’s new Sports Therapist and will be working closely with Andy and Richie on improving the teams overall sports injury and rehabilitation side of things. Emily will lead the way providing… Read more: EMILY ROBERTSON JOINS AS SPORTS THERAPIST
- HILL ON OPENING FIXTURES: “I NEVER LOOK TOO FAR AWAY FROM THE NEXT GAME!”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC joint head coach Richie Hill deviated from his usual practice when he took a glance at the Northern Premier League East Division fixtures which were released last week. The Colliers start the season proper with an Emirates FA Cup tie away to Shildon on August 3 but the following week… Read more: HILL ON OPENING FIXTURES: “I NEVER LOOK TOO FAR AWAY FROM THE NEXT GAME!”
- HILL ON FINAL TRIO OF FRIENDLIESBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC prepare to go into their final trio of friendly matches against Morpeth Town, Workington and Spennymoor Town next week with joint head coach Richie Hill saying he is not only looking forward to the clashes but is also excited at the prospect of facing what he describes as being stern… Read more: HILL ON FINAL TRIO OF FRIENDLIES
- BRETT LINKS UP WITH COLLIERS AS ANALYSTBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC’s management team have confirmed the appointment of Sean Brett as an analyst. Joint head coach Andy Coyles said: “We have built a really good management team but it’s no longer Richie Hill, Jamie Tunstall, Gary Ormston, Lee Barrass and myself – it now includes Sean Brett who is going to… Read more: BRETT LINKS UP WITH COLLIERS AS ANALYST
- HILL: “IT WAS AN EXCELLENT WORK OUT”By Brian Bennett Ashington completed their third warm up game of pre season with a 2-1 win over Whitley Bay at Hillheads on Tuesday night. The victory prompted joint head coach Richie Hill to speak highly of the challenge from the coast outfit: “It was an excellent work out and I think both clubs will… Read more: HILL: “IT WAS AN EXCELLENT WORK OUT”
- COLLIERS GET TOUGH DRAWS IN CUPSBy Brian Bennett Ashington have been handed ‘tough’ away ties in the early stages of both the Emirates FA Cup and Isuzu FA Trophy competitions. In the FA Cup, the Colliers will travel to face Ebac Northern League first division side Shildon in the extra preliminary round on Saturday August 3 with the winners hosting… Read more: COLLIERS GET TOUGH DRAWS IN CUPS
- COYLES STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF ‘BUILD THE BUDGET’ CAMPAIGNBy Brian Bennett The deadline for ‘build the budget’ is rapidly approaching – and Ashington FC joint head coach Andy Coyles has stressed the importance of the campaign from a management perspective. Coyles – who was quick to acknowledge and thank the fans who have already supported the campaign – said at the weekend: “The… Read more: COYLES STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF ‘BUILD THE BUDGET’ CAMPAIGN
- INTERIM CLUB STRUCTUREAshington AFC can now confirm that following yesterday’s statement from Brian Shotton, an interim structure has been agreed to continue to take the club forward and continue in the direction Brian has been leading the club. Gavin Perry and Nicola Sanders-Cooper who are both currently directors of the club will take on co-chairperson roles. They… Read more: INTERIM CLUB STRUCTURE
- RESIGNATION STATEMENT FROM BRIAN SHOTTON AS CHAIRMAN OF ASHINGTON AFCAfter nearly six years of serving as the chairman of Ashington AFC, the time feels right for me to relinquish this responsibility. Throughout my tenure, I have dedicated myself to the progress and development of the club, and I am proud of the strides we have made together. From initial survival to progressing with a… Read more: RESIGNATION STATEMENT FROM BRIAN SHOTTON AS CHAIRMAN OF ASHINGTON AFC
- COYLES: “WE WERE ALL DISAPPOINTED”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC joint head coach Andy Coyles said the 4-2 defeat away to West Auckland on Saturday was disappointing. “What we have said to the lads – and they are in full agreement – is that we want to instil a winning mentality and that includes pre season matches,” he commented, “Consequently… Read more: COYLES: “WE WERE ALL DISAPPOINTED”
- ASHINGTON SIGN SLOCOMBEBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC have announced the signing of midfielder Matty Slocombe. Slocombe has put pen to paper with the Colliers after leaving Consett where he was a stalwart having first signed for the Steelmen at the age of 17. Sunderland-born Slocombe – a digital learning consultant – said: “I’m excited and really looking… Read more: ASHINGTON SIGN SLOCOMBE
- COYLES: “AS A FIRST PRE SEASON GAME, THERE WERE SOME REALLY GOOD PERFORMANCES”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington got their pre season programme underway with a 5-2 win over AFC Newbiggin on Tuesday night. The game was staged at the Newbiggin Sports and Community Hub and afterwards, joint head coach Andy Coyles said: “It was a good work out for the boys. Obviously we had… Read more: COYLES: “AS A FIRST PRE SEASON GAME, THERE WERE SOME REALLY GOOD PERFORMANCES”
- ROBINSON: “I’VE STILL GOT PLENTY TO OFFER”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Paul Robinson has vowed that he still has ‘plenty of offer’ – after being one of a plethora of signings made during the close season by Ashington manager Andy Coyles. Newcastle-born ‘Robbo’ – as he is known – is the proud holder of three FA Vase winners’ medals… Read more: ROBINSON: “I’VE STILL GOT PLENTY TO OFFER”
- SUMMERLY CONFIRMS HIS COMMITMENT TO COLLIERSBy Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Jordan Summerly has confirmed his commitment to Ashington FC – only manager Andy Coyles has described it as being like a brand new signing! The North Shields-born defender was forced to leave the field after 35 minutes of the home clash against Carlton Town in mid November after… Read more: SUMMERLY CONFIRMS HIS COMMITMENT TO COLLIERS
- ASHINGTON AFC – VACANCY 1ST TEAM FIRST AIDERAre you a skilled and passionate first aider looking for an exciting opportunity in the world of football? Look no further! Our prestigious football club is seeking a dedicated First Aider to join our team and help keep our players in top condition. As the club first aider, you will be responsible for providing injury… Read more: ASHINGTON AFC – VACANCY 1ST TEAM FIRST AIDER
- TUNSTALL: “I FEEL VERY PRIVILAGED TO COME TO ASHINGTON”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC joint head coaches Andy Coyles and Richie Hill have made another summer swoop after signing Jamie Tunstall to bolster their management team. Darlington-born Tunstall – who has a wealth of experience after managing several clubs in the Ebac Northern League – said he is excited and feels ‘very privileged’ to… Read more: TUNSTALL: “I FEEL VERY PRIVILAGED TO COME TO ASHINGTON”
- STAPLES: “THIS CLUB IS ONLY GOING ONE WAY AND I WOULD LIKE TO BE PART OF IT”By Brian Bennett Goalkeeper Dan Staples has returned to Ashington – five years after making his debut for the Woodhorn Lane based outfit. The 33 year old played for the Colliers during the 2019/20 season when he was commuting for Carlisle and it was the gruelling travel which was his reason for leaving and joining… Read more: STAPLES: “THIS CLUB IS ONLY GOING ONE WAY AND I WOULD LIKE TO BE PART OF IT”
- BARRASS JOINS AS GOALKEEPING COACHBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC joint head coaches Andy Coyles and Richie Hill have added to their back room staff with the appointment of Lee Barrass as goalkeeping coach. Coyles said: “Lee has got a good background within the non league circuit. He has worked at all levels in the game in and around the… Read more: BARRASS JOINS AS GOALKEEPING COACH
- THOMSON: “AS SOON AS ANDY AND RICHIE APPROACHED ME, IT WAS A NO BRAINER”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC signed their number one priority target last week according to joint head coach Richie Hill when Connor Thomson put pen to paper on a contract at Woodhorn Lane. Last season the striker spent the best part of six months with the Colliers on loan from neighbours… Read more: THOMSON: “AS SOON AS ANDY AND RICHIE APPROACHED ME, IT WAS A NO BRAINER”
- KNEESHAW: “FANS PLAYED SUCH A BIG PART IN ME WANTING TO STAY”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Wilson Kneeshaw became the fourth player in a week to commit his immediate future to Ashington Football Club. The striker – who won the Management Player of the Year plus the Goal of the season trophy at the awards ceremony recently – netted 16 times last term, finishing… Read more: KNEESHAW: “FANS PLAYED SUCH A BIG PART IN ME WANTING TO STAY”
- CARTWRIGHT: “IT’S A BIG YEAR FOR ME”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC unveiled their first ‘new’ addition of the summer on Saturday with Andrew Cartwright making a return to Woodhorn Lane. The defender was a regular for the club – as well as establishing himself as a fans favourite – in the season before last which saw the Colliers clinch promotion to… Read more: CARTWRIGHT: “IT’S A BIG YEAR FOR ME”
- BUILD THE BUDGETLast season, Ashington FC competed in the Northern Premier League for the first time in more than half a century. We’d like to thank you all of those that contributed to our Build The Budget campaign last season, your kindness was instrumental in ensure that the club was able to see out the season at this level.… Read more: BUILD THE BUDGET
- ASHINGTON TRIO COMMIT FOR NEXT SEASONBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC head coaches Andy Coyles and Richie Hill were delighted last week after three midfielders – Karl Ross, Craig Spooner and Ben Sampson – committed their immediate futures to the club for the upcoming season. Coyles said: “We are chuffed to bits to secure the three lads who have been a… Read more: ASHINGTON TRIO COMMIT FOR NEXT SEASON
- MANAGEMENT TEAM APPRECIATION TO BEHIND THE SCENES STAFFBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC’s newly installed boss Andy Coyles, beavering away as he looks to shape his squad for the forthcoming season, has spoken on behalf of the management team about the ‘key’ signings he has already secured – off the field. Coyles and Richie Hill were installed as head coaches a few weeks… Read more: MANAGEMENT TEAM APPRECIATION TO BEHIND THE SCENES STAFF
- LEAGUE ALLOCATIONS FOR 2024/25The FA have today released the allocations for all Step 1-6 leagues for the upcoming season. As we were all aware, the Northern Premier League – East Division would rise from 20 to 22 teams for the 2024/25 season and beyond. Hebburn Town and Stockton Town were both successful in promotion from our division last… Read more: LEAGUE ALLOCATIONS FOR 2024/25
- GAZ ORMSTON JOINS MANAGEMENT TEAMAshington AFC are delighted to announce that for the 2024/25 season Gary Ormston has not only decided he wants to remain at the club in a playing capacity, but he has also accepted an offer from Andy Coyles and Richie Hill to become part of the management team. Gary originally joined the club in November… Read more: GAZ ORMSTON JOINS MANAGEMENT TEAM
- COYLES: “OUR WORK HAS ALREADY BEGUN”By Brian Bennett Andy Coyles and Richie Hill will not be enjoying a customary bit of time off – despite the fact that Ashington FC’s 2023/24 campaign has come to an end. The duo were installed as the new management team at Woodhorn Lane last Friday replacing Ian Skinner who recently announced that he was… Read more: COYLES: “OUR WORK HAS ALREADY BEGUN”
- IAN REID: “IAN SKINNER HAS GONE OUT ON A HIGH”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ian Reid, chair of the Ashington Supporters Club, reflecting on the last five years has said that Ian Skinner has gone out on a high. In his own words in an open letter to the club’s social media, Skinner waved ‘goodbye from the touchline’ as manager following Thursday’s… Read more: IAN REID: “IAN SKINNER HAS GONE OUT ON A HIGH”
- ROSS: “AS SKIPPER I WAS PROUD OF ALL OF THE LADS TONIGHT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Skipper Karl Ross spoke of the heartache within the dressing room after Ashington had lost their semi final of the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup against Newcastle United U21s at Woodhorn Lane on Thursday night. The Colliers went down 2-1 and Ross said afterwards: “Walking into the dressing… Read more: ROSS: “AS SKIPPER I WAS PROUD OF ALL OF THE LADS TONIGHT”
- SKINNER: “THE BOYS GAVE EVERYTHING”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Naturally disappointed after his side had lost their semi final in the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup 2-1 against Newcastle United U21s, Ashington manager Ian Skinner praised his entire squad for a spirited performance and said they ‘gave everything.’ Quality strikes from Dylan Stephenson in the first period… Read more: SKINNER: “THE BOYS GAVE EVERYTHING”
- ASHINGTON AFC ANNOUNCE NEW MANAGEMENT TEAMAshington FC are delighted to announce our new management team as Andy Coyles and Richie Hill, as they will be stepping into the head coaches’ roles for the upcoming 2024/25 season. Having previously served as part of the management team along with outgoing Manager Ian Skinner, Coyles and Hill are already well-acquainted with the club.… Read more: ASHINGTON AFC ANNOUNCE NEW MANAGEMENT TEAM
- What you need to know ahead of our Senior Cup Semi Final match this ThursdayWe are expecting a crowd close to capacity this Thursday so it will be a busy night. Please give this a read before coming to the game to ensure you know what the crack is. TRAVELLING & CAR PARKING Ashington AFC wishes to be a responsible community organisation and a good neighbour to all residents… Read more: What you need to know ahead of our Senior Cup Semi Final match this Thursday
- ROSS: “OUR MINDS CANNOT DRIFT FROM THE TASK WHICH LIES AHEAD”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC skipper Karl Ross has said that his team mates will have their minds entirely focussed on the task which lies ahead – nowhere else – when they face Newcastle United U21’s in the semi final of the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup at Woodhorn Lane on… Read more: ROSS: “OUR MINDS CANNOT DRIFT FROM THE TASK WHICH LIES AHEAD”
- SKINNER: “IT’LL BE A TOUGH TEST – BUT NEVERTHELESS A WINNABLE ONE”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner has described Thursday’s semi final clash against Newcastle United U21s in the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup as being a ‘tough test – but nevertheless a winnable one.’ Following a run of four defeats in five matches, the Colliers got back on track… Read more: SKINNER: “IT’LL BE A TOUGH TEST – BUT NEVERTHELESS A WINNABLE ONE”
- BRIAN BENNETT SCOOPS LONG SERVICE AWARDOn Saturday night, a special presentation was made to Brian “Scoop” Bennett who has reached the massive milestone of 50 years with Ashington AFC. Brian started reporting for the Chronicle back in the 74/75 season in what turned out to be a 6-2 home defeat to Consett. This didn’t deter him from the role however… Read more: BRIAN BENNETT SCOOPS LONG SERVICE AWARD
- THOMSON: “TO COME AWAY AS TOP GOALSCORER IN THE TIME I HAVE BEEN WITH THE CLUB, I’M BUZZING ABOUT IT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Connor Thomson claimed the award of top goalscorer when Ashington FC held their presentation evening in the function room at Woodhorn Lane on Saturday night. And afterwards, the 28 year old – who is on loan from Morpeth Town – could not disguise his delight on several fronts.… Read more: THOMSON: “TO COME AWAY AS TOP GOALSCORER IN THE TIME I HAVE BEEN WITH THE CLUB, I’M BUZZING ABOUT IT”
- DOUBLE WINNER WILSON LAUDS PRAISE ONTO MANAGEMENT TEAMBy Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Wilson Kneeshaw struck at the double at Ashington FC’s presentation night on Saturday as he won the Management team’s Player of the Year and Goal of the season awards. And afterwards the 29 year old striker paid tribute and couldn’t thank the management team of Ian Skinner, Andy… Read more: DOUBLE WINNER WILSON LAUDS PRAISE ONTO MANAGEMENT TEAM
- WILLIAMS: “TO GET THE AWARD IS BRILLIANT AND WILL KEEP ME MOTIVATED FOR NEXT SEASON”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC defender Ben Williams picked up the Supporters Player of the Year award on Saturday night at the presentation ceremony – and reckons it will keep him motivated for next season! Williams who was at Sunderland Academy, has found football in the non league pyramid to be… Read more: WILLIAMS: “TO GET THE AWARD IS BRILLIANT AND WILL KEEP ME MOTIVATED FOR NEXT SEASON”
- ROSS: “AWARD CAME AS A SURPRISE – BUT I’M DELIGHTED”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Skipper Karl Ross was chosen as Ashington FC’s Players’ Player of the Year on Saturday night at the club’s presentation evening – and spoke of his delight. Ross said afterwards: “Every award comes as a surprise because you don’t know about it – but I’m absolutely buzzing to… Read more: ROSS: “AWARD CAME AS A SURPRISE – BUT I’M DELIGHTED”
- ROSS: “I’M GRATEFUL TO THE BOSS”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC skipper Karl Ross has spoken about the influence which manager Ian Skinner has had on his career – as well as saying the rest of the squad at the Woodhorn Lane based outfit ‘love playing under him.’ On Saturday, the Colliers got the perfect pick-me-up tonic… Read more: ROSS: “I’M GRATEFUL TO THE BOSS”
- CARTWRIGHT: “IT WAS 100 PER CENT A SHOT!”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Andrew Cartwright – drafted into the Ashington side for their Pitching In Northern Premier League clash against North Ferriby on Saturday – was on the score sheet as the Colliers chalked up a 2-0 victory as well as completing a seasons double over their opponents. The win –… Read more: CARTWRIGHT: “IT WAS 100 PER CENT A SHOT!”
- SKINNER: “THE SCENES AT THE END WERE QUITE EMOTIONAL”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner insisted that although he was ‘quite emotional’ at the final whistle after his side had completed a seasons double over North Ferriby on Saturday, that the key aspect was for the players to end their league campaign on a high and send the… Read more: SKINNER: “THE SCENES AT THE END WERE QUITE EMOTIONAL”
- SKINNER: “I WAS DISAPPOINTED FOR THE FANS WHO TURNED OUT IN THEIR DROVES AS THEY ALWAYS DO”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner – far from happy after seeing his side slide to a 2-0 defeat against Liversedge on Saturday – said that he was disappointed for the Ashington supporters who had travelled to Cleckheaton. The reverse was the Colliers’ fourth in their last five matches… Read more: SKINNER: “I WAS DISAPPOINTED FOR THE FANS WHO TURNED OUT IN THEIR DROVES AS THEY ALWAYS DO”
- OPEN LETTER FROM IAN SKINNERIt is goodbye from the touchline, however it’s not necessarily farewell. In the words of Frank Sinatra, ‘so now the end is near’ with the final curtain about to fall on my time as manager of my hometown club. As I reflect on my past five years, I am filled with immense pride of what… Read more: OPEN LETTER FROM IAN SKINNER
- SKINNER: “IT’S DIFFICULT NOT TO HAVE ONE EYE ON THAT CUP TIE NOW”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington have two games remaining in the Pitching In Northern Premier League East Division before their rescheduled semi final tie against Newcastle United U21s in the semi final of the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup – and manager Ian Skinner admitted that it is difficult not to have… Read more: SKINNER: “IT’S DIFFICULT NOT TO HAVE ONE EYE ON THAT CUP TIE NOW”
- SKINNER: “OBVIOUSLY APART FROM THE RESULT, I WAS REALLY PLEASED”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner saw his side go toe to toe with Hebburn Town on Thursday night – and take the lead – before the Hornets ran out 4-1 winners which saw them go to the top of the Pitching In Northern Premier League East Division table. Apart from the result,… Read more: SKINNER: “OBVIOUSLY APART FROM THE RESULT, I WAS REALLY PLEASED”
- SKINNER: “WE GOT GRAFT TONIGHT – BUT NOT MUCH GUILE”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner believes that things are ‘not quite happening’ for his side at Woodhorn Lane as he reflected on the 0-0 draw against Winterton Rangers on Tuesday night. It was the first game in six seasons on home turf where supporters had failed to see… Read more: SKINNER: “WE GOT GRAFT TONIGHT – BUT NOT MUCH GUILE”
- FURIOUS SKINNER DEMANDS MORE FROM HIS PLAYERSBy Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie The strong westerly wind which blew down the Woodhorn Lane ground turned Saturday’s clash between Ashington and Grantham Town into a dour tussle. The contest was decided by Elliot Walker’s 73rd minute strike for the visitors – but Ashington’s performance came under fire from manager Ian Skinner who… Read more: FURIOUS SKINNER DEMANDS MORE FROM HIS PLAYERS
- ASHINGTON AFC HIT SIGNIFICANT MILESTONEWe are thrilled to share that Ashington Football Club has achieved a significant milestone: we’ve secured grade 4 stadium accreditation, ensuring our ground meets the requirements for step 4 of the pyramid, the level at which we now proudly compete at. Our journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. While our performances… Read more: ASHINGTON AFC HIT SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE
- ROSS: “OUR FANS CAN PLAY A HUGE PART”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Karl Ross says the Ashington players are ‘buzzing’ and ‘can’t wait’ ahead of Tuesday night’s clash against Newcastle United U21s in the semi final of the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup at Woodhorn Lane. Vice captain Ross also believes that the home fans ‘can play a huge part’… Read more: ROSS: “OUR FANS CAN PLAY A HUGE PART”
- SKINNER: “HOPEFULLY WE CAN GET A POSITIVE RESULT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner says he is hoping his outfit can get a positive result against Newcastle United U21s on Tuesday night when the teams clash in the semi final of the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup at Woodhorn Lane. Skinner said: “We’re looking forward to it.… Read more: SKINNER: “HOPEFULLY WE CAN GET A POSITIVE RESULT”
- SKINNER: “I THOUGHT A DRAW WOULD HAVE BEEN A FAIR RESULT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner admitted that although his side were faced with challenging conditions, he nevertheless thought they deserved a share of the spoils against Carton Town on Saturday. The Colliers travelled to Nottinghamshire looking to complete a seasons double after recording a 4-0 win over the… Read more: SKINNER: “I THOUGHT A DRAW WOULD HAVE BEEN A FAIR RESULT”
- ROSS ON SKINNER’S DEPARTURE: “IT’S HARD TO PUT INTO WORDS”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC’s vice captain Karl Ross said it was’ hard to put into words’ his reaction to the news that manager Ian Skinner will be stepping down from his role as manager at the end of the season. The 25 year old said that the players were told of the decision by… Read more: ROSS ON SKINNER’S DEPARTURE: “IT’S HARD TO PUT INTO WORDS”
- ORMSTON ON SKINNER DEPARTURE: “I’LL BE FOREVER GRATEFUL TO IAN”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC defender Gary Ormston said that the news which broke on Tuesday night of Ian Skinner’s departure as manager at the end of the current season came as a big shock to him. And the 40 year old – who described himself as being ‘one of the senior people at the… Read more: ORMSTON ON SKINNER DEPARTURE: “I’LL BE FOREVER GRATEFUL TO IAN”
- Ian Skinner announces departure as Manager of Ashington AFCAshington AFC regrets to announce the forthcoming departure of Ian Skinner from his position as manager, effective at the conclusion of the current season. This decision arises from a shift in Ian’s professional circumstances, making the demands of managing a Northern Premier League East side exceedingly challenging. Nonetheless, while Ian will be stepping down from… Read more: Ian Skinner announces departure as Manager of Ashington AFC
- IAN SKINNER: “IT’S GOOD TO GET A WIN AT HOME”By Gav Perry | Photo: Ian Brodie A jubilant Ian Skinner spoke just after the final whistle of Saturday’s win against Bridlington Town saying “It was good to get a win at home where our form has been indifferent to say the least. Not often I publicly challenge the players but we did after last… Read more: IAN SKINNER: “IT’S GOOD TO GET A WIN AT HOME”
- ENTRY PRICES & SEASON TICKET INFORMATION FOR 2024/25 SEASONAshington AFC is pleased to announce the Matchday Entry prices for the 2024/25 season and offer early bird season tickets. We are pleased to confirm that both season ticket and turnstile matchday entry prices have been frozen. Building on our commitment to accessibility and community engagement, we are pleased to introduce some exciting changes. From… Read more: ENTRY PRICES & SEASON TICKET INFORMATION FOR 2024/25 SEASON
- McGEORGE JOINS ON LOANBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC announced the loan signing of James McGeorge from South Shields towards the end of last week. Woodhorn Lane boss Ian Skinner said: “James is a technically gifted player and he offers us a little bit of something that we haven’t got at the moment in terms of that final pass… Read more: McGEORGE JOINS ON LOAN
- FURIOUS SKINNER PULLS NO PUNCHESBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner was seething and pulled no punches when delivering his postmatch thoughts following the Colliers’ 2-1 home defeat against Grimsby Borough at a windswept Woodhorn Lane ground on Saturday. Striker Dan Maguire had fired the hosts ahead but as the performance from the Wansbeck outfit deteriorated, goals from… Read more: FURIOUS SKINNER PULLS NO PUNCHES
- NEW BOARD APPOINTMENT AT ASHINGTON AFCAshington AFC is pleased to announce a new addition to our management team, aimed at providing more support for our dedicated volunteers. Nicola Sanders-Cooper will be joining Ashington FC’s expanding board, bringing her expertise to drive the club forward into its next strategic phase as we near the conclusion of our first season in the Northern Premier League… Read more: NEW BOARD APPOINTMENT AT ASHINGTON AFC
- VAN-ZANDVLIET: “IT’S THE QUICKEST GOAL I’VE EVER SCORED”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC’s Paul Van-Zandvliet admitted that his goal after only 24 seconds against Consett recently is the quickest in his footballing career. Van-Zandvliet pounced to score the rebound after Wilson Kneeshaw’s initial effort had been parried by Consett ‘keeper James Anderson. For any player who scores in the first minute of a… Read more: VAN-ZANDVLIET: “IT’S THE QUICKEST GOAL I’VE EVER SCORED”
- KNEESHAW: “I’M JUST DISAPPOINTED IN MYSELF THAT IN SOME OF THOSE MOMENTS I WASN’T BETTER”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC striker Wilson Kneeshaw expressed having mixed feelings on Saturday – after he had notched his 15th goal of the season in the Colliers 2-2 draw against Belper Town. The 29 year old put the Wansbeck outfit 2-1 ahead 12 minutes into the second half with a fabulous finish but later… Read more: KNEESHAW: “I’M JUST DISAPPOINTED IN MYSELF THAT IN SOME OF THOSE MOMENTS I WASN’T BETTER”
- GASCOIGNE: “THE TARGET FOR ME NOW IS TO FINISH THE SEASON STRONGLY”By Brian Bennett Cam Gascoigne netted his second goal of the season at Belper Town on Saturday in the 2-2 draw down in Derbyshire. And afterwards the 22 year old outlined his target for the remainder of the campaign. Gascoigne scored as the Colliers swept local rivals North Shields aside with a 4-0 victory in… Read more: GASCOIGNE: “THE TARGET FOR ME NOW IS TO FINISH THE SEASON STRONGLY”
- SKINNER: “WE NEED TO IMPROVE OUR HOME FORM”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC boss Ian Skinner – preparing for Saturday’s tussle against Grimsby Borough at Woodhorn Lane (March 23) – will emphasise to his squad of players the need to improve their form on home soil. Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Belper Town – where there was a sting in the tail when the… Read more: SKINNER: “WE NEED TO IMPROVE OUR HOME FORM”
- SKINNER: “TO BE HONEST, I THOUGHT THE BOYS WERE MAGNIFICENT”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner lauded his players with the highest possible praise after they had secured a point from a 2-2 draw away to Belper Town on Saturday. The Woodhorn Lane boss saw his outfit denied what would have been a merited 2-1 victory snatched from their grasp following an unbelievable… Read more: SKINNER: “TO BE HONEST, I THOUGHT THE BOYS WERE MAGNIFICENT”
- NUFC (SENIOR CUP) – TICKETING UPDATEOur ground capacity has now been confirmed at 1,500 for this game. We’re expecting a big crowd and it will be first come first served. We’ve opened online sales to Ashington season ticket holders this morning (when logged into their online account) and they will have first chance of purchasing tickets. This will run until… Read more: NUFC (SENIOR CUP) – TICKETING UPDATE
- THOMSON SETS HIMSELF A NEW GOALS TARGETBy Brian Bennett “I’VE GOT A REVISED FIGURE IN MY HEAD – ONLY I’M NOT GOING TO DIVULGE WHAT IT IS!” Ashington FC’s on-loan striker Connor Thomson has set himself a new goals target – only he’s keeping the figure a closely guarded secret! Thomson – who celebrated his 28th birthday last month – linked… Read more: THOMSON SETS HIMSELF A NEW GOALS TARGET
- EXLEY: “IT WAS GOOD TO SCORE ON MY COMEBACK – BUT SECURING THE WIN WAS THE ICING ON THE CAKE”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC defender Charlie Exley said that winning the game at Consett on Saturday was the ‘main thing’ – after he had made a goalscoring return to action having been ruled out for the last four and a half months with an ankle injury. With the scores locked at 1-1 and 20… Read more: EXLEY: “IT WAS GOOD TO SCORE ON MY COMEBACK – BUT SECURING THE WIN WAS THE ICING ON THE CAKE”
- SKINNER ON THE RETURN TO ACTION OF BUDDLE & EXLEYBy Brian Bennett Skipper Nathan Buddle and defender Charlie Exley both returned to action for Ashington following lengthy spells on the sidelines as the Colliers chalked up an eye catching 3-2 win over Consett at the Belle View Stadium on Saturday. Buddle was on the injured list for two months earlier in the season with… Read more: SKINNER ON THE RETURN TO ACTION OF BUDDLE & EXLEY
- SKINNER LAYS DOWN NEW CHALLENGE TO HIS PLAYERS:By Brian Bennett “We now have nine league games left and the challenge to the players is can we go through until the end of the season unbeaten.” Understandably, Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner wore a broad smile on his face after seeing his side come out on top with a 3-2 victory over Consett… Read more: SKINNER LAYS DOWN NEW CHALLENGE TO HIS PLAYERS:
- SKINNER: “I’M DISAPPOINTED THAT WE HAVEN’T TAKEN ALL THREE POINTS”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner said he was disappointed following his sides 3-3 draw against Pontefract Collieries on Tuesday night. Trailing to a controversial penalty which was converted by Adam Haw, Ashington went into the interval 2-1 up after quick fire strikes from Wilson Kneeshaw and Paul Van-Zandvliet. Kneeshaw added his second… Read more: SKINNER: “I’M DISAPPOINTED THAT WE HAVEN’T TAKEN ALL THREE POINTS”
- SKINNER: “THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO SIDES WAS THEY WERE JUST A BIT MORE CLINICAL THAN US”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner was far from downbeat when he emerged from the dressing room following his sides 2-0 defeat by Pitching In NPL East Division leaders Stockton Town on Saturday. A goal in each half by Michael Fowler and substitute Tom Portas saw the Anchors complete a seasons double over… Read more: SKINNER: “THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO SIDES WAS THEY WERE JUST A BIT MORE CLINICAL THAN US”
- SKINNER: “I THOUGHT A DRAW WOULD HAVE BEEN A FAIR RESULT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner admitted that his outfit were far from being at their best in the first half against Cleethorpes Town on Saturday – but nevertheless thought a draw would have been a fair result. Following their midweek share of the spoils with Stocksbridge Park Steels… Read more: SKINNER: “I THOUGHT A DRAW WOULD HAVE BEEN A FAIR RESULT”
- ASHINGTON FOOTBALL CLUB SECURES WOODHORN LANE FUTUREAshington Football Club is thrilled to announce a significant milestone, as the club secures its immediate and long-term tenure at Woodhorn Lane through a newly negotiated lease agreement lasting until 2049. This achievement not only fortifies the club’s presence at its home but also sets the stage for future development and continuous improvement as a… Read more: ASHINGTON FOOTBALL CLUB SECURES WOODHORN LANE FUTURE
- SKINNER: “I’M PROBABLY SLIGHTLY DISAPPOINTED WITH JUST A POINT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner said he was ‘slightly disappointed with just a point’ – after his side had fought back to secure a 1-1 draw against Stocksbridge Park Steels at Woodhorn Lane on Tuesday night. Jack Watson put the visitors ahead in an uneventful first period before… Read more: SKINNER: “I’M PROBABLY SLIGHTLY DISAPPOINTED WITH JUST A POINT”
- SAMPSON: “WHEN THE BALL CAME ACROSS, MY EYES LIT UP”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ben Sampson admitted that his eyes ‘lit up’ when the chance came for to him to score his first goal of the season in Ashington’s 2-1 win over Grimsby Borough on Saturday. The Colliers had gone behind to an opener from Caine Winfarrah but three minutes later Sampson… Read more: SAMPSON: “WHEN THE BALL CAME ACROSS, MY EYES LIT UP”
- COOMBE: “I WANT TO STAY IN THE SIDE”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC goalkeeper Ross Coombe has said he will savour what was a dramatic five days in his footballing career. Coombe – who has competed with Karl Dryden for the number one jersey – made his first appearance for the club in the 5-1 win over Newcastle University in the Newcastle Flooring… Read more: COOMBE: “I WANT TO STAY IN THE SIDE”
- SKINNER: “OVERALL IT WAS A FANTASTIC RESULT”Br Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner was ‘thrilled to bits’ after his side had clinched their fifth away victory of the season with a 2-1 success away to Grimsby Borough on Saturday. After Caine Winfarrah had put the hosts ahead, Ben Sampson and Connor Thomson turned the tables in Ashington’s favour but before… Read more: SKINNER: “OVERALL IT WAS A FANTASTIC RESULT”
- HILL: “IN CUP FOOTBALL IT’S ALL ABOUT THE RESULT”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC coach Ritchie Hill was delighted on Tuesday night after the Colliers had won their quarter final tie in the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup against a plucky West Allotment Celtic outfit by a single goal at Woodhorn Lane. Hill said afterwards: “In cup football it’s all about the result and… Read more: HILL: “IN CUP FOOTBALL IT’S ALL ABOUT THE RESULT”
- ASHINGTON & WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC CHASE SEMI FINAL SPOTBy Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner has described his sides clash against West Allotment Celtic in the quarter final of the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup this evening (February 6), as being a ‘big game’ for the Wansbeck based outfit. Following their 4-1 defeat against Dunston UTS on Saturday, Skinner said: “We’ll dust… Read more: ASHINGTON & WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC CHASE SEMI FINAL SPOT
- SKINNER: “BIG DECISIONS DIDN’T GO OUR WAY”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner expressed ‘mixed emotions’ after the Colliers 4-1 defeat at the hands of promotion hopefuls Dunston UTS on Saturday and added that ‘big decisions’ didn’t go in his sides favour. A fine strike by skipper Karl Ross cancelled out Jack Maskell’s opener before Michael Pearson put the home… Read more: SKINNER: “BIG DECISIONS DIDN’T GO OUR WAY”
- The town of Ashington, the Colliers and footballing links with SheffieldBy Scott Messenger Ashington AFC and Sheffield FC are probably the two most historic clubs in the Northern Premier League East Division. Ashington, formed in 1883, are one of the oldest clubs in the North East and spent eight seasons in the Football League during the 1920’s after being founder members of the Third Division… Read more: The town of Ashington, the Colliers and footballing links with Sheffield
- SKINNER: “I DIDN’T SEE THAT PERFORMANCE COMING TODAY”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner was left totally mystified as to why his side were so inept in their 3-1 home defeat by Sheffield FC at Woodhorn Lane on Saturday. A clearly disappointed Skinner said afterwards: “I didn’t see that performance coming if the truth be known because we were on the… Read more: SKINNER: “I DIDN’T SEE THAT PERFORMANCE COMING TODAY”
- SKINNER: “I’LL GIVE A SPECIAL MENTION TO CAM”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Cam Gascoigne came in for warm praise from Ashington manager Ian Skinner following the Colliers 2-1 win at Ossett United on Saturday. “I thought there were some outstanding performances today” said the Woodhorn Lane boss afterwards, “but I’ll give a special mention to Cam Gascoigne. If the truth… Read more: SKINNER: “I’LL GIVE A SPECIAL MENTION TO CAM”
- TWO GOAL THOMSON SAYS: “I PROBABLY SHOULD HAVE HAD MORE”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Connor Thomson was recently announced as Ashington’s ‘Player of the month’ for December – now the striker has gone top of the scoring charts at the Woodhorn Lane based club after bagging both goals in the Colliers 2-1 away win at Ossett United. On Saturday, the on-loan forward… Read more: TWO GOAL THOMSON SAYS: “I PROBABLY SHOULD HAVE HAD MORE”
- SKINNER: “WE WANTED TO CONTINUE OUR GOOD RUN – AND WE’VE MANAGED TO DO THAT”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner was thrilled that his side made it three wins in a row after they came away with a 2-1 victory over Ossett United on Saturday – with the boss adding that he had enjoyed the contest! After getting his breath back following a pulsating crescendo to the… Read more: SKINNER: “WE WANTED TO CONTINUE OUR GOOD RUN – AND WE’VE MANAGED TO DO THAT”
- CLUB UPDATEDear Supporters, Sponsors and Friends, With the Christmas period a distant memory and the New Year upon us, now is a good time to provide an update on the club’s current position. Team The current league position of tenth shows how the lads have consolidated well after a tough start to the season. Tuesday’s 1-0… Read more: CLUB UPDATE
- SKINNER: “IT WAS A GREAT RESULT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Wilson Kneeshaw’s 11th goal of the season punctured Belper’s hopes of going second top of the Pitching In Northern Premier League East Division on Tuesday night as Ashington won a tight contest 1-0. And afterwards, Colliers boss Ian Skinner paid tribute to both sides: “It was a great… Read more: SKINNER: “IT WAS A GREAT RESULT”
- THOMSON: “I’M ABSOLUTELY BUZZING”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Clutching the match ball under his arm, Connor Thomson said he was ‘buzzing’ after scoring a hat trick for Ashington on Tuesday as they gave Hebburn’s promotion bid of a jolt with a 4-0 hammering at Woodhorn Lane. And afterwards the on-loan forward from Morpeth Town revealed that… Read more: THOMSON: “I’M ABSOLUTELY BUZZING”
- SKINNER: “THE PLAYERS TAKE MAXIMUM CREDIT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner said his squad of players take maximum credit following the crushing 4-0 win over Hebburn Town at Woodhorn Lane on Tuesday. After Wilson Kneeshaw had opened the scoring, striker Connor Thomson provided the knockout punch on Boxing Day with a hat-trick as the… Read more: SKINNER: “THE PLAYERS TAKE MAXIMUM CREDIT”
- SKINNER: “WE NEED TO PICK UP THREE POINTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner – having seen his side end a run of three consecutive defeats with a 3-3 draw against Brighouse on Saturday – is eyeing up a potential Christmas cracker when his side host Hebburn Town this afternoon. The Hornets are currently second top of the Pitching In Northern… Read more: SKINNER: “WE NEED TO PICK UP THREE POINTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE”
- SKINNER: “I WAS SLIGHTLY DISAPPOINTED”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner said he was ‘slightly disappointed’ that his side had only picked up one point following their 3-3 draw against Brighouse Town on Saturday. On a rain-soaked afternoon in West Yorkshire, the Colliers brought a run of three consecutive defeats to an end as they fought back on… Read more: SKINNER: “I WAS SLIGHTLY DISAPPOINTED”
- SKINNER: “THE SIMPLE FACT IS WE WILL NOT WIN GAMES OF FOOTBALL IF WE DEFEND LIKE WE HAVE DONE IN THE LAST TWO – END OF”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner slammed his sides’ defending and delivered a blunt message following their 4-0 defeat against Sheffield FC on Tuesday night. The reverse in Dronfield at the Home of Football Stadium saw the Colliers slide to a third consecutive defeat whilst also conceding eight goals… Read more: SKINNER: “THE SIMPLE FACT IS WE WILL NOT WIN GAMES OF FOOTBALL IF WE DEFEND LIKE WE HAVE DONE IN THE LAST TWO – END OF”
- CONSTANTIN: “IT WAS A SHAME ABOUT THE RESULT TODAY”By Brian Bennett Will Constantin made his debut for Ashington on Saturday – but the 20 year old wasn’t smiling after the final whistle as his side went down 4-2 to Newton Aycliffe in their Pitching In Northern Premier League East Division clash. The Surrey-born youngster – who is also registered with Gateshead – has… Read more: CONSTANTIN: “IT WAS A SHAME ABOUT THE RESULT TODAY”
- SKINNER: “THE KEY HEADLINE FOR ME IS – DISAPPOINTED AND I EXPECT BETTER”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner admitted after the 4-2 defeat against Newton Aycliffe that he got ‘one or two calls wrong’ – but he also spoke about being disappointed with the performance from his players which fell short of what he expects from them. It’s only a month… Read more: SKINNER: “THE KEY HEADLINE FOR ME IS – DISAPPOINTED AND I EXPECT BETTER”
- COYLES: “THE LADS ARE CHOMPING AT THE BIT TO GET BACK ON THE PITCH”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC’s assistant manager Andy Coyles – speaking ahead of the Colliers’ home clash against Newton Aycliffe in the Pitching In Northern Premier League East Division on Saturday (December 16), said the players are ‘chomping at the bit’ to return to competitive action. Following a cold snap, the rain – which has… Read more: COYLES: “THE LADS ARE CHOMPING AT THE BIT TO GET BACK ON THE PITCH”
- ROSS: “WE WANT TO START ANOTHER GOOD RUN”By Brian Bennett Ashington FC’s vice captain Karl Ross admitted that his team mates have endured a ‘frustrating’ couple of weeks due to inclement weather conditions but with the forecast set to improve are hoping to begin another positive run of results in the Pitching In Northern Premier League East Division. If the Colliers home… Read more: ROSS: “WE WANT TO START ANOTHER GOOD RUN”
- ORMSTON: “I WANTED TO DO MYSELF JUSTICE – AND I THOUGHT I DID THAT”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Gary Ormston not only made his debut for Ashington in Saturday’s match against Liversedge at Woodhorn Lane – but also made his bow at Northern Premier League level. An FA Vase winner with Whitley Bay and a league winner with North Shields, Ormston admitted that it is those… Read more: ORMSTON: “I WANTED TO DO MYSELF JUSTICE – AND I THOUGHT I DID THAT”
- SKINNER: “MY CHALLENGE TO THE LADS IS TO GO ON ANOTHER RUN”By Brian Bennett | Photo: Ian Brodie Ashington FC manager Ian Skinner – after seeing his sides’ unbeaten run of five matches ended by Liversedge on Saturday – has thrown down a new challenge to his playing squad. Goals by Joe Walton and Alex Wollerton gave the visitors a 2-0 victory in Wansbeck but the… Read more: SKINNER: “MY CHALLENGE TO THE LADS IS TO GO ON ANOTHER RUN”