Ashton Athletic 2 Nelson 1

11:08am Monday 11th August 2008

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NELSON went down to a narrow defeat at Ashton Athletic in their opening game of the Premier Division.

The Blues conceded a goal after only three minutes when Steve Bennett forced his way through a hesitant defence and chipped the ball over Billy Carrington and into the net off the underside of the bar.

Nelson were unnerved by the early goal but fought back with an equaliser after 28 minutes when Martin Payne’s right wing cross was headed home by Sam Heap.

Ten minutes later, the Blues had the ball in the net again from a fine move but the “goal” was ruled out by an offside flag.

And just before half-time, Nelson conceded a second goal when their defence failed to clear a simple chip forward and John Ford burst into the area to beat Carrington with a low shot inside the near post.

The Blues fought hard in the second half with both Mick Howarth and Heap forcing good saves from the home keeper.

But, at the other end, Nelson had the woodwork to thank when Ford hit the post with his close-range shot.

Nelson boss Jon Westall will be keen to improve on this performance when the Blues entertain AFC Fylde on Wednesday night. Kick off 7.45pm.