Phillips hails loan star's impact

Ashton’s United joint manager Paul Phillips is hailing the influence of on-loan defender Robbie Williams after the Robins kept their first clean sheet in five games during Tuesday night’s 1-0 win at home to Skelmersdale United in the EVO-STIK Northern Premier League’s top flight, writes James Burch.

Robins keeper Phillips didn’t have to make a save all night with the experienced signing from Barrow AFC, pictured, marshalling his defence in the Premier Division victory at Hurst Cross.

The 27-year-old, who arrived last week, has made more than 250 appearances for the likes of Accrington Stanley, Altrincham and Hyde and a delighted Phillips said: "To have as many caps in the Conference under your belt you must be a good player and Robbie really is. We have a good young squad but now we have him in the side he brings a bit of experience and can hold things together.

"This season we have taken the lead in games but then due to lack of experience sat back and let sides come on to us. Robbie showed the lads when to move back and forward in the game and it was great for us."