Wednesday's Premier Division action review

Ashton United wasted the opportunity to cut North Ferriby United's lead at the top of the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Premier Division table to just three points when they welcomed second-bottom Ilkeston FC to Hurst Cross on Wednesday night, writes Pitchero's Steve Whitney.

Kevin Wilson's young Robins obviously hadn't read the script though. After Aaron Hooton had given the visitors the massive boost of an opening goal in the first 15 seconds Ilkeston never looked back.

Former Basford United striker Hooton's swift opener came after an effort from veteran Gary Ricketts had come back off a post. His second, though, was a spectacular scissors kick to give the Robins a 2-0 lead after 23 minutes

Ashton failed to find the form that has taken them to second spot and had helped them win 3-1 away at Ilkeston's fellow strugglers Whitby Town last Saturday. The visitors, beaten at home by Matlock Town last weekend, virtually made sure of victory when Matt Richards netted from close range right on the stroke of half-time.

The second period was something of an anti-climax. Ashton never really threatened a comeback against the Ilkeston defence. It has actually conceded fewer goals than Ashton's backline this season and held firm again. In fact it was Wilson's side who came closest to scoring again when Ricketts had a shot hacked off the line.

Many observers feel Ilkeston are in a false position and, although the table doesn't lie, this result could just be the boost they need to start moving upwards.