ASHTON UNITED 1, MORPETH TOWN 0
Keilen Adams continued his hot scoring streak as Ashton United beat Morpeth Town in Northern Premier League, premier.
The striker scored for a third consecutive game as the Robins took the points at Hurst Cross following a hardworking performance.
The victory keeps 12th placed United in the hunt for a play-off pace as they are seven points adrift of the top five.
They still have to look in the opposite direction, though, as they are only eight clear of the relegation places.
George Milner was restored to the home side’s line up and the hosts were first to threaten as Dale Whitham’s header was cleared in front of goal following Nathan Lowe’s free kick.
Visiting centre forward Sam Fishburn then forced a sharp save at the near post from Andre Mendes and at the other end Daniel Lowson needed to fist away a 30-yard free kick from Lowe.
The breakthrough arrived just after the half hour as Adams smashed home a loose ball in the area after a challenge on him by Michael Turner had gone unpunished and Whitham’s subsequent cross had been blocked.
Lowe then saw his effort blocked from Jason Gilchrist’s pass before Matty Regan’s flick on from a throw in also saw Whitham’s low effort blocked.
The Robins could have extended their lead after the interval as Sean Newton made a great run into the box before his cross was cut out and shortly afterwards his 25-yard blockbuster was tipped over by Lowson after the keeper had touched Gilchrist’s initial effort on to the crossbar.
Three minutes later Ben Ramsey fouled his opposite number Jack McKay and Newton’s free kick rattled the crossbar with Lowson unmoved.
Lowe then forced a near post save after playing a one-two from a corner and then put a left foot effort just off target after substitute Craig Hobson had won the ball.
With time running out Morpeth substitute Matty Cornish teed up Connor Thomson to curl an effort over the top for the Highwaymen while for Ashton Hobson fired over following a neat turn in the area.
Ashton United: Mendes, Baillie, Newton, Baird, Regan, Milner, Gilchrist (Hobson 70), Whitham, Adams, Lowe (Hough 90), McKay. Subs (unused): Lonsdale, Guilfoyle.
Report: David Robinson.