Hulmeians’ setback

LANCASHIRE AMATEUR LEAGUE
TOP-of-the-table Oldham Hulmeians slipped to only their second defeat of the season as they lost 4-2 at Haydock-based Ashtonians in the Lancashire Amateur League Division Two.

Oldham started well and in the 17th minute they went in front as Danny Pauley scored his second goal in three games from 18 yards.

Ashtonians soon levelled, before Oldham responded on the half-hour mark when good play from Gareth Hill helped set up Alex Shepherd who slotted home from 12 yards.

Jordan Schofield missed a glorious chance to extend Oldham’s lead soon after, but five minutes later the Maroons allowed their hosts to get back on level terms. Five minutes before the interval more slack Hulmeians defending saw them fall behind.

In the 65th minute Oldham were given a glimmer of hope when the Ashtonians captain was given his marching orders after being shown a second yellow card following a crude foul on Danny Pauley.

However, the Maroons just couldn't capitalise and it was the home side who stretched their advantage late on.

In the closing minutes a serious head injury to defender Josh Briddon, who was unconscious for four minutes after a nasty clash of heads, threatened to ruin Hulmeians' day further. Fortunately the defender recovered and was able to travel home with the rest of the deflated squad.

Manager Geoff Howard said: "I was very disappointed with our defending. We must get back to being solid as a unit in our final six games if we want promotion."
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