Boro Share Points With Ashville

Bacup Borough were held to a 1-1 draw by Ashville FC at the Brian Boys Stadium, with the visitors taking the lead before Borough fought back to level just before half-time.

Ashville opened the scoring through Peter Morgan following an unfortunate error from Borough goalkeeper Billy Blake. Good work down the left-hand side created the opportunity, with Morgan receiving the ball before calmly slotting it past the advancing Blake, who had found himself caught in no man's land.

Borough responded positively and were rewarded with an equaliser shortly before the interval. A corner from Josh Walne was only partially cleared by the Ashville defence, and Tyler Williams met the loose ball with a half-volley. Williams was adamant that the effort was his goal, but Connor Morris got the decisive touch to guide the ball into the net and bring Borough level.

Ashville's biggest threat came from the long throws of Joe Haley, which repeatedly caused problems around the Borough penalty area. However, the central defensive pairing of Joey Fallon and Paul Sholabi were on hand to deal with the danger and prevent the visitors from creating further clear-cut opportunities.

Paul Sholabi in good form against Ashville FC

The first half was also disrupted by injuries to Alex Mellor and Brady Boardman. Both players were forced off and could potentially face several weeks on the sidelines. Mason Fallon and new signing Charlie Cowin were introduced as their replacements.

Borough went into the second half with a much greater sense of assurance and began to take control of possession. The passing was sharper, the movement more purposeful and there was a noticeable increase in belief throughout the team.

Jay Luker, who had once again produced an excellent performance in midfield, was replaced by Ben Thompson as Borough looked to freshen things up in the middle of the park.

Jay Luker has settled into his new surroundings very quickly

Jake Townsend was also introduced for Connor Morris, taking up the number 10 position. Townsend came agonisingly close to winning the game for Borough when Kaiden Barlow delivered the ball into the penalty area before cutting it back perfectly into Townsend's path. With the goal at his mercy from around ten yards, Townsend could only fire his effort high and wide.

Ashville made changes of their own as they attempted to get more players further forward, but Borough's improved second-half display ensured that the visitors rarely threatened the Borough goal.

The final whistle confirmed a 1-1 draw, although Borough can take plenty of positives from a much-improved second-half performance in which they played with greater confidence, composure and purpose.

Speaking to the Borough manager after the game, he said;

“I felt the first half wasn't played with enough intensity from us. We were a little slow and didn't really impose ourselves on the game in the way I know we can.

“The second half was much better. We had far more purpose and tempo to our game, moved the ball better and caused them a lot more problems. I was pleased with the response from the players after the break.

“Overall, I'm happy with seven points from a possible nine. It's been a positive start to the season, but we know there is still plenty for us to improve on and we're looking forward to the next challenge.”

The result keeps the Borough moving forward, and attention now turns to Tuesday evening when Brent Peters' side make the trip to the Marley Stadium to face Steeton AFC.

Another tough test awaits, but Borough will be looking to build on the positives from this performance and continue the momentum of the opening weeks of the season.