Tuesday's Premier Division action review

Workington AFC moved level on points with second-placed Ilkeston FC in the EVO-STIK Northern Premier League's Premier Division on Tuesday night after beating the Robins 2-0 at Borough Park, writes Steve Whitney.

FC United of Manchester remain firm favourites for the title, being four points clear with games in hand, but this result will keep the pressure on the Reds.

In front of a crowd of 474, events could have turned out differently had Rob Duffy not seen his penalty just before half-time saved by Jonny Jamieson.

The breakthrough finally came with 11 minutes remaining when visiting keeper Mark Smith made a fine save but Gareth Arnison fired in the loose ball to give the hosts the lead. And Workington made sure of the points five minutes later when Gavin Skelton netted from close range.

Ashton United are fourth after sharing a 1-1 draw with Blyth Spartans at Croft Park in front of a crowd of 407.

It was goalless at the break, but the home side broke the deadlock 11 minutes into the second half when Alex Nicholson’s effort was deflected into the top corner by a Spartans foot. The home side had several chances to put the game to bed before Ashton made them pay with an equaliser, Martin Pilkington tapping home from close range on 69 minutes.

The draw pushes Ashton five points clear of sixth-placed Skelmersdale United, while Spartans still possess games in hand on those immediately above them, but trail the play-off places by six points.

Already relegated Belper Town recorded their first victory since beating Stamford AFC 1-0 on November 18th, the Nailers coming out as 2-1 winners over out-of-form Halesowen Town.

Nabil Shariff gave the home side a 41st minute lead that Ben Turner doubled on 66 minutes. Kristian Green reduced the arrears for the Yeltz, but it came deep into time added on at the end of the game.

Tuesday's other game saw mid-table sides Rushall Olympic and Grantham Town share a goalless draw at Dales Lane.