Wednesday's Premier Division action review

Wednesday`s only game in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Premier Division was a massive one involving two of the promotion contenders Ashton United, looking for a top five finish, hosted joint-leaders Chorley at Hurst Cross.

The Magpies travelled across to Tameside level on points with FC United of Manchester and with a similar goal difference.

However, the game ended in disappointment for Garry Flitcroft`s side with the hosts slipping into the play-off places at the expense of former leaders Skelmersdale United.

A decent crowd of 354 saw Jason Gorton give Ashton an early 9th minute lead with a header from a corner.

Ashton had a chance to increase their advantage when Dale Johnson went through one-on-one with Chorley keeper Sam Ashton, but he lost control of the ball at the crucial moment.

The first half also saw Chorley hit the post and have two headers cleared of the line, but Ashton went into the break 1-0 up.

Shortly after the break a point blank save by Ashton from a Lee Ricks effort kept the scoreline at just 1-0 and that proved even more vital as the Magpies equalised 7 minutes into the second period with a goal from Andy Teague.

But the visitors` hopes of returning to top spot were dashed with 11 minutes remaining when Johnson popped up to win it for Ashton.