Johnson's appeal to fans pays off

Ashton United manager Danny Johnson is delighted that his appeal for more fans to get behind his team has started paying off, writes Jez Sayle.

Last week the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division manager called for more supporters to get along to Hurst Cross to see his high-flying Robins and on Saturday the club was rewarded with their second highest attendence of the campaign.

Nearly 300 supporters saw Ashton climb into second place in the league with a thrilling 3-2 victory over fellow promotion hunters Chorley, Aaron Burns, pictured, scoring twice and Chris Lynch grabbing their other goal.

Saturday's gate was not only swelled by a sizeable travelling support from opponents Chorley, but also with supporters of other local clubs, some it later emerged were attending Hurst Cross for the first time after listening to Johnson's appeal.

Johnson revealed that a number had even contacted the club on Twitter and via the club's forum afterwards to say they'd be back for more entertainment.

He said: "One of the positive comments posted on the club’s forum said 'I would like to say thank you to Ashton United and the fans for a memorable first match experience for my son and me'. Another comment on Twitter from a Hyde fan said we'd played some good stuff and they'd be back again soon."

Johnson was delighted the extra supporters and hopes many will be back for more. He added: "I’d like to thank those people who made the effort to get down to the Chorley game, regulars or otherwise. We’d love to see you – and perhaps a friend – back for the home games with Ilkeston next Wednesday [November 21] and the clash with league leaders North Ferriby United the following Saturday."

Ashton travel to the seaside on Saturday to visit Whitby Town for one of the season’s away-day highlights and are organising subsidised coach travel for fans priced at £12 and £5 for concessions.
The Seasiders are also offering free admission for Under 16s accompanied by a paying adult and £2 for Under 18s.

The coach leaves Hurst Cross at 10.30am. To book your place email: communications@ashtonutd.com.