By Elliot Steadman
Buxton FC continued their pre-season preparations with a narrow victory over Ashton United, as a second-half goal from a trialist secured a 1-0 win on the road.
The hosts started brightly, controlling possession during the opening stages.
The Bucks’ first real opening came when Connor Kirby stepped up to take a free-kick from 30 yards out. His effort struck the wall before dropping to Kian Scales, whose low strike was comfortably saved by the goalkeeper.
A Trialist was next to threaten, recovering after initially going to ground before creating an opportunity from a tight angle, but he was unable to trouble the keeper.
For Ashton United, their first major chance fell to Kurt Willoughby after Buxton were forced to clear the ball off the line. The former Buxton player then fired over the bar from close range.
Reece Kendall’s long throw soon caused problems, with James Hardy making his way into the box before going down under a challenge. However, the referee waved away the penalty appeals.
A number of trialists were introduced at half-time as Buxton made a host of changes for the third consecutive match of pre-season.
Will Trueman looked lively after the restart, beating his man before sending Dylan Mantle down the line, with the forward winning a corner.
In the 55th minute, Buxton took the lead through a trialist. A cross into the area was flicked on with a backheel, finding the back of the net to make it 1-0.
Following the opener, Ashton United tested Buxton’s trialist goalkeeper from close range, but he stood firm to deny the hosts and preserve the advantage.
With ten minutes remaining, a trialist attempted to set up the goalscorer, but his curling effort was blocked by an Ashton United defender.
The final chance of the game fell to Mantle after good work from a trialist played him through. His curling effort looked destined for the top corner but rattled against the crossbar.
The result marks another positive step in Buxton’s preparations ahead of the new season, with Scunthorpe at home next up for The Bucks.
