Ewaninblack

PLAUDITS FOR PASSMORE AS HE DECIDES TO HANG UP THE BOOTS AT THE AGE OF 40 The club can confirm that Gordon Passmore will retire at the end of this season at the age of 40. Gordon announced his retirement this week after discussions with the management team and felt that it was only apt that he finishes up his playing career to focus on his youth coaching with Cumbernauld Colts, where he has enjoyed coaching in the academy side for the past 2 years. ‘Passy first signed for Ashfield in 2005 under then manager Stevie Rankin, whom he captured from Cumbernauld Utd. His career highlights at the ‘field include winning Players Player of Year in 2005/2006 and then winning the Central League Division 2 title the following season. Passy continued his spell with the club for a further five seasons where he achieved promotion from the Central League Division 1 in 2008/2009 and then helping Ashfield win the Super First league and secure promotion to the Super Premier league for the first time in 2010/2011. Passy then ‘retired from football to focus on his family before being persuaded to come back last season by the now manager Paul Maxwell. Manager Maxwell added his compliments for Passy…. “Gordon Passmore deserves every plaudit and commemoration that comes his way after his decision to retire. He is Mr Reliable when it comes to playing and I know it might sound cliché but he is one of the most genuine and nicest guys I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. It will be sad not to see him around the club anymore but on the other hand it is an absolute credit to Passy for continuing playing. His wonder strike against Dunipace around 13 years ago is still clear in my memory but it is even his recent performances that still stick out at the ripe old age of 40. We played Neilston in the Scottish Cup this season, a team that is two leagues above us may I add, and when we fought back to lead the tie I remember the last 20 mins performance from Gordon where he was absolutely immense and helped us see the game out to win. People will always talk about goals and creativity when winning games but Passy has modestly been an unsung hero on a continuous basis for Ashfield. He’s had an incredible junior football career, particularly here, along with spells at Cumbernauld Utd and Dunipace. I only hope we achieve promotion this year to allow Gordon to have a good sign off on his career. That said, I wish him all the best, I’m sure his wife Linda and their boys will be delighted to see Dad around more often. Good luck for the future Passy." Gordon took a moment to speak with the social media team and said… “I just want to say I’ve had a great time being back with Ashfield for the past couple of years and really enjoyed being back playing at junior level again. I’ve played 8 years all in with Ashfield and they have been the best footballing years of my career and this probably wouldn’t have happen if it wasn’t for Maxi coming back to the club 2 seasons ago. I would like to thank him for asking me to come back. The club are at a crucial time of the season at the moment with us fighting for 3rd spot so I’m really hoping the lads can pull together and manage to get promotion. For me it would end my football career on massive high and would give me great memories in years to come and for the team it would be a great achievement. I would like to thank the management Maxi, Ryan, Daks and Millsy and wish them all the best with taking Ashfield to where they should be and would also thank the lads for making my time here brilliant and wish them all the best with the club. Mon the field!" Good luck GORDON PASSMORE, Ashfield FC LEGEND!!!

McBookie West Region Division 2 Ashfield 6 Saltcoats Victoria 0 - 30/03/2019 The `field were desperate to `bounce back `from last week`s narrow defeat at Muirkirk where they played well but did not get the breaks. Saltcoats Vics were `dangerous` opponents and it had been a terrific Match the last time the two teams met over the festive period in December on the Ayrshire coast with the `field coming back up the road to Glasgow after a 4-2 victory where they had Cammy Farquhar to thank for a magnificent display, so the `field were under no illusions that they had to be at their best today and within the first few minutes of the Kick-Off were ahead. Paul Maxwell starting only his 2nd game since Christmas replaced Billy Stevenson up front and made an immediate impact. It was good to see Kenny Hadden back in the line up and his long throw in the 3rd Minute found `Maxi` in the box and the Ashfield Striker guided his header into the far corner of the net to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 1 Saltcoats Vics 0. A great start and the `field were keen to build on this and despite some early pressure found the Vics defence in resolute form. As the game began to calm down Ashfield started to get their passing game together and after a move down the left in the 20th minute the ball broke to Graeme Hearton on the edge of the penalty box. The Ashfield striker drove the ball hard at goal with the Vics keeper saving however was unable to hold and as the ball squirmed from his grasp, Paul Maxwell was first to react to drive the ball into the net to put the `field 2-0 up. Ashfield 2 Saltcoats Vics 0. This was the start Ashfield had wanted and managed to dictate affairs for most of the half with the odd sporadic burst from the visitors notably from Ex-Ashfield winger Chris Moulangou. Graeme Hearton was looking lively up front and after a knock down from `Maxi`, the Ex-Rossvale man found himself through on goal however his volley went narrowly past the far post. As Referee Andrew Bryson brought first half proceedings to a close the `field knew that they still required that extra goal to be sure of the points. HT:- ASHFIELD 2 SALTCOATS VICS 0 The home faithful didn`t have long to wait for the nerves to be calmed as the boys in Black & White hoops put on an excellent second half performance which resulted in the `field going into third place on goal difference. After an initial early effort from Graeme Hearton, it was Lee Cochrane that found space in the crowded Vics penalty box in the the 49th Minute and drove a right footed shot into the net with a few mild deflections on the way to give the home side some breathing space. Ashfield 3 Saltcoats Vics 0. The visitors struggled to create much going forward and Ashfield were hungry for more goals. After a couple of substitutes, the home side increased their lead in the 71st minute following an excellent corner delivered by Keigan Parker. As the ball was whipped in Paul Maxwell outjumped the Vics defence bulleting a header into the net to complete his hat-trick. Ashfield 4 Saltcoats Vics 0. Despite a lot of further pressure it wasn`t until the 88th minute before Ashfield scored again. The ball was played over the visiting defence finding Player/Manager Maxwell who guided the ball into the path of an onrushing Jordan Lynch with the Ashfield Midfielder lashing the ball into the net to the delight of the home support and a few of Jordan`s fans in the Main Stand ! Ashfield 5 Saltcoats Vics 0. As the Referee thought about bringing the game to a close the `field managed one last chance with the ball being played into the box by Kenny Hadden finding Mark McManus and his header gave the Vics Keeper no chance to finally finish the scoring for the day. Ashfield 6 Saltcoats Vics 0. This was a confidence boosting win for Ashfield and they were more back to their `old self`with 4 games to go. It`s a trip to Forth next on the Cards which like every game in this League will be a very competitive Match.....`mon the `field !! FT:- ASHFIELD 6 SALTCOATS VICS 0 Ashfield Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Hadden, Friel, Amos, McManus, McQuilken, Hearton, Maxwell and Cochrane. Subs:- Parker, Lynch, Passmore.

Totally agree Kevin - They were more like Junior Cup Ties - both teams performed well considering the underfoot conditions at this stage of the Season. It`s going to be an exciting finish and I`m sure we will both be there or thereabouts. Cheers

Match Report from yesterday`s Match at Muirkirk. Separate Note - A big `well done` to Lanark Utd on achieving promotion:- McBookie West Region Division 2 Muirkirk 3 Ashfield 2 - 23/03/2019 Ashfield headed down to East Ayrshire knowing what they had to do in the next six games and that it was in their hands and with the exception of Ciaran Friel and Patrick Cullen, `Maxi` had a full team to pick from. The home side have had a very good season so far and were looking to leave where they left off against Johnstone Burgh in their last home game (6-0) so a cracking match was in prospect and that is what we got. Again, similar to the last game, both teams deserve enormous credit for their efforts and it was slightly disappointing that there were so many bookings in what was a physical game but not a dirty one. It was the home side, backed by a strong wind, that started on the front foot with a succession of long throw-ins into the box which were well defended by the `field. Ashfield were trying to find their passing game but were being hemmed in and on the 11th minute succumbed to the opening goal. A long throw into the Ashfield half found the Kirk No 7 and after taking one touch he lashed the ball from fully 22 yards into the top corner of Cammy Farquhar`s net to the delight of the home fans. Muirkirk 1 Ashfield 0. This goal gave Ashfield a jolt and they set about trying to claw back the deficit. A lovely through ball from Michael Giblin saw Billy Stevenson break clear of his marker however the Ashfield Striker elected to shoot instead of going round the Keeper and his effort was well saved . Another chance fell to the same Ashfield player from a corner with Stevenson getting ahead of his marker only to see his header miss the far post by inches. Muirkirk were still foraging forward at every opportunity and the `field had to deal with a number of corners however as the half wore on the Glasgow Team took control of Midfield and on the 20th minute were level. Graeme Hearton weaved around the `kirk defence however as he tried to break through was tripped with the Referee pointing to the spot. It was good to see Keigan Parker back from injury and the Ex-St Johnstone man finished with aplomb. Muirkirk 1 Ashfield 1. Although it was competitive, the number of bookings dished out was beginning to annoy both sides as the game stop-started on a regular basis and just on half time Ashfield had a number of corners to try and go in with a Half time lead however the home side had other ideas and on the 45th Minute were awarded a free-kick just inside the Ashfield half. The ball was delivered into the box and was met first by the tall Midfielder of Muirkirk, Rodgers, who glanced his header into the corner of the net to put the home side ahead at the interval. Muirkirk 2 Ashfield 1. HT:- MUIRKIRK 2 ASHFIELD 1 It is never a good time to lose a goal just before Half time however it did not affect the `field who lay siege on Muirkirk`s goal for the first 20 minutes of the half and will be wondering how they did not score. Backed by a swirling wind, Billy Stevenson and Keigan Parker went close initially with efforts being blocked and saved by the Keeper. Next up it was Paul McQuilken`s turn as he drove the ball into a crowded penalty box only to see it diverted away. Graeme Hearton managed to get through the packed defence on the hour mark and his net bound effort was blocked by the feet of the `kirk Keeper who was having an excellent match. Parker was replaced by Lee Cochrane and the Ex-Renfrew player managed a shot within 2 minutes which was parried to safely. As in the first half the Referee continued the dish out Yellow Cards. Ashfield were beginning to get frustrated as the rain lashed down at Burnside Park and this turned to anguish with 18 minutes left on the clock. A long ball was played into the Ashfield box and was gathered by Keenan who managed to weave his way past two tackles before drilling the ball into the far corner to the delight of the home support. Muirkirk 3 Ashfield 1. A well taken goal however a disaster for Ashfield, who after this went on full offensive bringing on Player/Manager Paul Maxwell in a bid to salvage the result. Despite a couple of close calls when Billy Stevenson`s net bound effort was diverted wide of the post, the home defence stood resolute until 3 minutes to go when the `field were awarded a free-kick 22 yards out. Billy Stevenson stepped up and curled a terrific effort into the far corner of the net and it was game on. Muirkirk 3 Ashfield 2. Despite the visitors pressure they were unable to break down the home side and this was not helped when Michael Giblin was sent off for speaking out of turn to the Referee which was down to sheer frustration. As the Referee brought proceedings to a close, the home side celebrated and the Glasgow outfit knew that this was a real dent in their promotion plans however there are still 5 games to be played and what it does mean is that the `field cannot afford to drop any more points. FT:- MUIRKIRK 3 ASHFIELD 2 Ashfield`s Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Amos, Gaynor, McManus, McQuilken, Giblin, Hearton, Stevenson and Parker. Subs:- Lynch, Cochrane, Hadden, Passmore and Maxwell.

Congratulations to Lanark on achieving promotion - Well done.

With Ashfield`s game against Newmains United falling victim to the weather yesterday, there were some interesting results again in this really competitive League. Lanark United and Lesmahagow seemed to have secured the first two promotion places and now after yesterday there are 6 teams vying for the last Promotion place with the `field knowing if they win their last six games they will automatically be promoted. However it will not be an easy task & the `field start the first of their 6 `Cup finals` with a trip to Fullarton Park, Tollcross next Saturday (16/3/2019) to take on Vale of Clyde - Kick-Off 2pm. ...`mon the field.

McBookie West Region Division 2 Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 3 - Saturday 16th February 2019 It was great to get a game on a Saturday as it had been a few weeks since Ashfield had played and the game did not come any bigger than a trip to Millburn Park to take on Vale of Leven, who were now sitting in the Promotion spot after a period of positive sustained results. The `field knew what they had to do today in order to claw themselves back into the promotion race and that was really a victory and as they set about their task against determined opponents in their away strip of all red. The opening exchanges were fast and furious and Ashfield had a couple of players playing out of positions due to injuries and young Lee Cochrane moved from his Midfield berth to support Graeme Heaton up front and it was those who linked up well in the 7th minute when Graeme Hearton almost connected to a Lee Cochrane cross. Shortly after and Mark McManus found some space in the box at an acute angle and his volley narrowly missed the far post. Vale of Leven stepped up the pace shortly after and a lovely move saw McGeachy played through and after rounding Farquhar his net bound effort was cleared on the line by Alex Amos. Five minutes later and it was Ashfield``s turn to have a one on one when Giblin played through Cochrane and as the Keeper advanced his shot was blocked by the home keeper however on the 26th Minute, Sheilds in the Vale goal had no chance with an Ashfield effort. Michael Giblin, returning after long term injury, gathered the ball 25 yards out and took a step before drilling a shot into the top corner of the net to put the `field ahead. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 1. It was a tremendous strike from the Ashfield Midfielder and officially opened his goalscoring account for the season. The home side became rattled after this and were guilty of a couple of strong challenges in which Referee Peacock brandished his yellow card. The home side were determined to try and get on level terms before the interval however Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal was commanding in the air and chances were at a premium for the home side. Ashfield had a chance on the 40th minute when a glancing header went by the far post from a free kick however were quite happy to see half time and regroup for the 2nd. HT:- VALE OF LEVEN 0 ASHFIELD 1 The Half time resfreshments were welcome on this damp day and the crowd of circa 100 were all set for another absorbing 45 minutes. No changes to either line up as the game started and for a period of time the game became embroiled in midfield and a bit stop-start due to injuries. The home side were struggling to get any sort of sustained pressure on Ashfield as the back four were extremely well marshalled and were beginning to break with pace. Mark McManus and Michael Giblin were getting joy down the flanks and Billy Stevenson who replaced Graeme Hearton in the first half was making his presence known to the Vale defence. Just after the hour mark and Ashfield`s afternoon just got better. Again it was good defensive work from Ashfield which allowed the ball to be played through the middle to Michael Giblin who then laid off a superb pass to Mark McManus on the edge of the box. The Ashfield Midfielder had time to look up and float a lovely ball to the far post where Michael Giblin came running in and bulleted a header into the roof of the net to the delight of the travelling support. A really well worked goal from Ashfield and the reaction from the players was there to see. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 2. The home side made a couple of changes after this however it was Goalkeeper Sheilds that kept the score down after a magnificent block from a left foot volley from Paul McQuilken, The Ex-Pollok stalwart thought that he had opened his account for the `field. Next up Cammy Farquhar had to deal with a shot from the right in which he just managed to keep the ball out before another Ashfield attack saw the ball break nicely to Mark McManus in the box however his left foot volley crashed off the post and was cleared to safety. As the game entered the last 5 minuted another clearance found Gavin Goodall on the left and as he charged in on goal floated the ball to Mark McManus and after an initial effort being blocked was brought down as gathered the loose ball and Referee Peacock had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel stepped up and despite a valliant effort from the Vale Keeper, Ashfield were 3-0 up. Vale of Leven 0 Ashfield 3. Referee had still some work to do before bringing the game to a close and Lee McGeachy was shown a 2nd yellow card for an infringement. This result brings the `field back into the `mix for the Promotion place alongside Vale of Leven and Carluke. Vale of Clyde were also on the fringes however lost at home to Annbank Utd which shows how tough this League is. The `field welcome Muirkirk to the Peugeot Ashfield Stadium next Saturday and Vale of Leven are away to Thorniewood. FT:- VALE OF LEVEN 0 ASHFIELD 3 Ashfield`s Team:- Farquhar, C Leverage, D Leverage, Amos, Friel, McManus, Giblin, McQuilken, Hearton, Cochrane, Cairns Subs:- Stevenson, Gaynor, Goodall, Passmore and McLaughlin.

Big game today at Millburn today v Vale of Leven FC. One, where iif we can win, will bring us back in the promotion pack following some disappointing results lately. Its always a cracking Match between Vale and Ashfield and same is expected this afternoon. It was a 1-1 draw earlier in the Season in Glasgow.

Pitch has failed inspection - Match OFF due to frozen park.

Saturday - 19th January 2019:- Pitch Inspection at Ashfield - 9.30am for game v Muirkirk today.

McBookie West Region Division 2:- Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 4 - Saturday 05/01/2019 It was fitting that one of the the oldest Junior Clubs in Scotland were Ashfield`s `first footers` in this important West Region Division 2 league encounter with valuable points at stake. Both Teams were buoyed by last week`s victories on the North Ayrshire Coast against Saltcoats and Ardeer respectively and 10 points was the difference between the teams before Referee Steven MacKay blew his whistle to open proceedings. It was visible in the early stages that the Vale front two were going to give the Ashfield defence a torrid time and were not giving the back four any time to play out of defence. The `field were enforced into a number of changes due to injury today and Kenny Hadden slotted into the left back berth with John Gaynor back in the centre of defence. The `field had conceded early in their last home encounter and found themselves a goal down after a mix up in defence. A ball was played over the back four and hesitation between the Keeper and the defence allowed Ross Clift to guide a shot into the corner to the delight of the travelling support. A bad goal to lose from the home side`s point of view and again the `field were left to chase the game. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 1. The `tin pail` were buoyed by this however had to withstand some Ashfield pressure via a number of corners, long throw ins and free kicks with Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel going extremely close on a couple of occasions. As the game approached the half hour mark Ashfield fell further behind courtesy of an infringement from Colin Leverage on the Vale forward, the decision seemed rather harsh as the offence appeared outside the box however despite Ashfield`s protestations, the spot-kick was hammered in by Kevin Fraser despite the valiant effort of Cammy Farquhar in the Ashfield goal. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 2. A real blow for Ashfield and try as they did the home side were struggling to break down a well organised Vale outfit who were really boosted by their first half goals and on the first half showing it was going to be difficult to see how Ashfield were going to claw themselves back into the game HT:- ASHFIELD 0 VALE OF CLYDE 2 A 2-0 lead can sometimes be a difficult lead to hold onto so the next goal in the Match was vital for Ashfield and within a minute of the second half were presented with a gilt edged chance to do that after a lovely move saw Keigan Parker break through the Vale defence and as the ball sat up nicely the normally prolific scorer blasted the ball against the Vale Keeper and was cleared to safety. A real chance for Ashfield who for the next 15-20 minutes encamped themselves in the visitors half however despite the pressure chances were at a premium with a couple of shots richocheting past the box and corners being scrambled away. The `field also changed their line up bringing on a further striker in Gavin Goodall and as the game approached the last 15 minutes moved John Gaynor up front too to try and make the breakthrough however the Vale defence were extremely well disciplined and as the `field pushed forward they began to find holes in the midfield and after bringing on subs themselves put the `game to bed` with 5 minutes remaining after a sweeping move saw the ball cut back to Sam Donald who drove the ball into an empty net to win the Match. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 3. To make matters worse the home side conceded a further goal in stoppage time after Referee MacKay spotted a handball in the box and despite Cammy Farquhar saving the spot-kick the rebound was converted by Ryan Murphy to inflict Ashfield`s heaviest league defeat of the Season. Ashfield 0 Vale of Clyde 4. The only crumb of comfort from today was the fact that the `field still remain in the Promotion place due to Vale of Leven and Carluke failing to win their matches however it is a long way to go and this final promotion place will I am sure `go to the wire`. It`s off to McKenna Park next Saturday to play the Ants - Kick-Off 1.45pm. FT:- ASHFIELD 0 VALE OF CLYDE 4

Match report from yesterday`s defeat in the Macron Scottish Junior Cup:- Macron Scottish Junior Cup 4th Round:- Rutherglen Glencairn 7 Ashfield 1 - Saturday 24/11/2018 The heavy overnight rain had not affected the Celsius Stadium pitch ahead of this eagerly awaiting 4th Round Scottish Junior Cup tie against two teams competing at the top end of their respective divisions. It was one win-a-piece in terms of matches last Season, with the `field winning a West of Scotland Tie at Saracen Park however the Glens gained revenge later in the Season putting the `field out of the Central League Cup. A couple of changes to the Ashfield team following last week`s excellent victory and from Referee White`s first whistle, the game was played at a very high tempo. Ashfield were conscious of the pace of the the Glens attackers however had pace themselves in Graeme Hearton who started the game extremely well linking up well with Keigan Parker. The `field forced the initial play however were restricted to long range shots in the opening exchanges and just as they were beginning to settle into the game, they found themselves a goal down with the home side`s first attack. A long range shot was blocked by young Colin Leverage at the back for Ashfield however the ball broke to Simeone who controlled the ball before drilling the ball low and hard into the back of the net to the delight of the home support. A real blow for Ashfield so early on. R`Glen Glencairn 1 Ashfield 0. This sprung the `field into action and they managed to create some chances firstly with Keigan Parker having a snap shot from outside the box which went agonisingly wide. On 13 minutes however the visitors had a glorious opportunity when Parker was played through and as the Keeper advanced, the Ashfield striker went for power and his shot was brilliantly saved by the Glens Keeper. Shortly after this the `field secured a corner on the far side, which was delivered to the far post with John Gaynor getting ahead of his marker and with six yards out bulleted his header wide of the target. These chances came back to `haunt` Ashfield as the home side began to step up a gear utilising the flanks well and trying to stretch the visitors back four and after a period of pressure got their reward on the 31st Minute. An angled shot from the right took a wicked deflection along the six yard box and it was Harry Mitchell that was first to react and had the easiest of tap ins to put the Glens further ahead. R`Glen Glencairn 2 Ashfield 0. Ashfield had to keep the game tight and were still pushing forward at every opportunity. The Glens Keeper had to be on form again when a 20 yard drive from Kenny Hadden was well saved. However as the game approached Half Time, disaster struck for the `field. The `all important` third goal came when the `field were on attack however once they lost possession, the pace of the Glens front four was there to see as they broke quickly down the right hand side and right on the bye line Del Esplin managed to scoop the ball across the six yard box evading McLenaghan in the Ashfield goal and McArdle headed in the third goal. R`Glen Glencairn 3 Ashfield 0. This was a really sore goal to lose from an Ashfield point of view and certainly put the game almost out of reach for the West Region Division 2 side. HT:- R`GLEN GLENCAIRN 3 ASHFIELD 0 Paul Maxwell decided to make an offensive change at Half time, bringing on Billy Stevenson to replace midfielder Jordan Lynch in a bid to claw back the deficit and on the whole defended well and broke well when they could for the next period. Another chance fell to Keigan Parker on the 55th Minute after making a lovely run however again it was the Glens Keeper who thwarted the Ashfield striker and shortly after the game was effectively `put to bed` when a low hard shot from Stevie Kerr from just inside the box went in despite the attentions of Gary McLenaghan in the Ashfield goal. R`Glen Glencairn 4 Ashfield 0. A couple of changes were made with Gavin Goodall replacing Keigan Parker and the Glens brought on top scorer Gary Smith. Unfortunately for the `field this did not stem the tide as the home side started the play with some style and started to `pepper` the Ashfield goal from all angles and on the 71st Minute went further ahead courtesy of a well drilled shot from Simeone for his 2nd of the game. R`Glen Glencairn 5 Ashfield 0. To the `field`s credit they kept plugging away however were now being picked off and with 8 minutes left despite a couple of great blocks from McLenaghan, Gary Smith got himself on the scoresheet. R`Glen Glencairn 6 Ashfield 0. The `field were struggling now and a minute later a speculative shot from Del Esplin bounced over the Ashfield Keepers arms and into the net for Number 7. R`Glen Glencairn 7 Ashfield 0. The `field had to rearrange things following an injury to Billy Stevenson with Dean Leverage coming on and the Ashfield winger made a really good impression and it was from this source that Ashfield got a consolation goal with the ball being played into the box. A glancing header found John Gaynor at the back post and the Ashfield Centre Half drove the ball into the net. R`Glen Glencairn 7 Ashfield 1. The North Glasgow Team were delighted to hear the final whistle and can only look back at what might have been against a very good team in Glencairn. We wish them all the best for the remainder of the Season. FT:- R`GLEN GLENCAIRN 7 ASHFIELD 1

McBookie West Region Division 2:- Ashfield 8 Annbank United 2 - Saturday 17/11/2018 A lovely winter`s day greeted both teams onto the Saracen Turf for the first League encounter between the teams since the 2010-2011 Season. The `field made a number of changes from last week`s cup Match with a very offensive line up and the Ayrshire outfit were in their away strip of Red with black & white stripe. It was a `carbon copy` of the start of last week`s Match with Gary McLenaghan having to pick the ball out of the net in under a minute. From kick-off the ball was played out to the right wing and with the Ashfield back four appealing for offside the Bankies No 7 took a step forward before driving a low shot into the far corner of the net. An excellent finish from the lad. Ashfield 0 Annbank Utd 1. The `field were up against it in the first quarter with the Bankies swarming forward at every opportunity and McLenaghan and his back four had to look lively on a number of occasions. As the half wore on, the `field started to play their passing game and all of a sudden the pendulum swung. The `field`s equaliser came from a long throw in from Kenny Hadden with Ciaran Friel nipping ahead of his markers before volleying a shot over the Bankies Keeoer and into the roof of the net. Ashfield 1 Annbank Utd 1. The `field were now on form and following a corner a few minutes later, Patrick Cullen got away from his marker however his bullet header was blocked on the line with the ball falling to Ciaran Friel 8 yards out and the Ashfield Captain made no mistake with the rebound. Ashfield 2 Annbank Utd 1. The game swung from end to end for a period and it was Ashfield that went further ahead following an Annbank attack with Billy Stevenson breaking clear down the right flank before delivering the ball across to Keigan Parker who evaded a tackle before lashing the ball into the corner of the net. A great goal from Ashfield. Ashfield 3 Annbank Utd 1. As both teams were looking forward to their half time Cup of Tea, Ashfield delivered the ball into the box one last time and Referee Regan Wallace immediately pointed to the spot. It appeared that Friel when going for a header was pulled back however the decision seemed a bit on the soft side. Anyway Ciaran Friel stepped up and drilled his spot-kick past the despairing arms of the Bankies Keeper to complete his hat-trick. Ashfield 4 Annbank Utd 1. HT:- ASHFIELD 4 ANNBANK UNITED 1 It had been a closer first half than the scoreline would suggest however as tight as the first half was, the second half belonged to Ashfield as they lay siege on the Bankies goal virtually straight from Kick-Off and played some really nice football shooting into the Possil end of the ground. After a period of pressure when Mark McManus almost got on the scoresheet with a shot from 6 yards out which cannoned back of the post, the `field went further ahead from a corner. Keigan Parker`s wicked Corner on the hour mark found Friel outjumping the Bankies defence and his header tore into the back of the net. Ashfield 5 Annbank Utd 1. Ashfield brought on Gordon Passmore for Kenny Hadden however not long after the Bankies reduced the deficit following a mix up at the far post with the Bankies No 11 taking full advantage driving the ball low and hard into the far corner. Ashfield 5 Annbank Utd 2. Ashfield were annoyed at losing this goal and set about trying to increase their lead and this they did shortly after when the ball was played into the path of Graeme Hearton who drew the Keeper out before driving the ball into the net. Ashfield 6 Annbank Urd 2. Further misery was to come for the Ayrshire team as they struggled with Parker`s deliveries into the box and from the other side Keigan Parker`s cross found Paddy Cullen ghosting in at the far post to head in his first goal of the Season to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 7 Annbank Utd 2. The visitors were now wishing the game to finish however to their credit kept on pushing forward at every opportunity however before the Referee brought proceedings to a close it was Ashfield`s Captain, Ciaran Friel who finished off a lovely move for his fifth goal of the game and Ashfield`s eighth. Ashfield 8 Annbank Utd 2. It was just one of the games with the `field looking very good going forward which set`s up the `field nicely for next week`s trip to Rutherglen in the Scottish Junior Cup. FT:- ASHFIELD 8 ANNBANK UNITED 2

Match Report from yesterday`s Match v Annbank Utd:- McBookie West Region Division 2:- Ashfield 8 Annbank United 2 - Saturday 17/11/2018 A lovely winter`s day greeted both teams onto the Saracen Turf for the first League encounter between the teams since the 2010-2011 Season. The `field made a number of changes from last week`s cup Match with a very offensive line up and the Ayrshire outfit were in their away strip of Red with black & white stripe. It was a `carbon copy` of the start of last week`s Match with Gary McLenaghan having to pick the ball out of the net in under a minute. From kick-off the ball was played out to the right wing and with the Ashfield back four appealing for offside the Bankies No 7 took a step forward before driving a low shot into the far corner of the net. An excellent finish from the lad. Ashfield 0 Annbank Utd 1. The `field were up against it in the first quarter with the Bankies swarming forward at every opportunity and McLenaghan and his back four had to look lively on a number of occasions. As the half wore on, the `field started to play their passing game and all of a sudden the pendulum swung. The `field`s equaliser came from a long throw in from Kenny Hadden with Ciaran Friel nipping ahead of his markers before volleying a shot over the Bankies Keeoer and into the roof of the net. Ashfield 1 Annbank Utd 1. The `field were now on form and following a corner a few minutes later, Patrick Cullen got away from his marker however his bullet header was blocked on the line with the ball falling to Ciaran Friel 8 yards out and the Ashfield Captain made no mistake with the rebound. Ashfield 2 Annbank Utd 1. The game swung from end to end for a period and it was Ashfield that went further ahead following an Annbank attack with Billy Stevenson breaking clear down the right flank before delivering the ball across to Keigan Parker who evaded a tackle before lashing the ball into the corner of the net. A great goal from Ashfield. Ashfield 3 Annbank Utd 1. As both teams were looking forward to their half time Cup of Tea, Ashfield delivered the ball into the box one last time and Referee Regan Wallace immediately pointed to the spot. It appeared that Friel when going for a header was pulled back however the decision seemed a bit on the soft side. Anyway Ciaran Friel stepped up and drilled his spot-kick past the despairing arms of the Bankies Keeper to complete his hat-trick. Ashfield 4 Annbank Utd 1. HT:- ASHFIELD 4 ANNBANK UNITED 1 It had been a closer first half than the scoreline would suggest however as tight as the first half was, the second half belonged to Ashfield as they lay siege on the Bankies goal virtually straight from Kick-Off and played some really nice football shooting into the Possil end of the ground. After a period of pressure when Mark McManus almost got on the scoresheet with a shot from 6 yards out which cannoned back of the post, the `field went further ahead from a corner. Keigan Parker`s wicked Corner on the hour mark found Friel outjumping the Bankies defence and his header tore into the back of the net. Ashfield 5 Annbank Utd 1. Ashfield brought on Gordon Passmore for Kenny Hadden however not long after the Bankies reduced the deficit following a mix up at the far post with the Bankies No 11 taking full advantage driving the ball low and hard into the far corner. Ashfield 5 Annbank Utd 2. Ashfield were annoyed at losing this goal and set about trying to increase their lead and this they did shortly after when the ball was played into the path of Graeme Hearton who drew the Keeper out before driving the ball into the net. Ashfield 6 Annbank Urd 2. Further misery was to come for the Ayrshire team as they struggled with Parker`s deliveries into the box and from the other side Keigan Parker`s cross found Paddy Cullen ghosting in at the far post to head in his first goal of the Season to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 7 Annbank Utd 2. The visitors were now wishing the game to finish however to their credit kept on pushing forward at every opportunity however before the Referee brought proceedings to a close it was Ashfield`s Captain, Ciaran Friel who finished off a lovely move for his fifth goal of the game and Ashfield`s eighth. Ashfield 8 Annbank Utd 2. It was just one of the games with the `field looking very good going forward which set`s up the `field nicely for next week`s trip to Rutherglen in the Scottish Junior Cup. FT:- ASHFIELD 8 ANNBANK UNITED 2

Macron Scottish Junior Cup 3rd Round Ashfield 4 Neilston 2 - Saturday 27/10/18 I think everyone heading along to the Match yesterday were expecting a typical Scottish Junior Cup Tie and that is exactly what they got. Ashfield had watched Neilston at Larkhall last week and knew that they were up against a very good side with the front two of Patterson and Stewart particularly catching the eye. The weather had been kind and although chilly it was brilliant sunshine for the whole match which started with both teams playing in their traditional strips. It was an extremely competitive opening with both teams giving their all however the game was punctuated with free kicks and offside decisions early on. A couple Ashfield players found themselves in the book for first tackles so knew the boundaries that Referee Ryan Lee was willing to go to and infact the young East of Scotland Referee had a very good game. The `Farmer boys` were beginning to exert some pressure on the home side as the half wore on with a number of free-kicks and corners and the `field were happy to hit Neilston on the break and this route almost paid off on the half hour mark when Gavin Goodall broke free of his marker and as Tiropoulos in the Neilston goal advanced, the young Ashfield striker lofted the ball over his head and agonisingly the ball landed on the top of the net. Ashfield were made to pay for this as 2 minutes later, Neilston went in front courtesy of a wonderful solo goal from Paul Stewart. The Ex-Arthurlie player gathered the ball on the right wing before evading a tackle and drove into the box and by that time nobody could touch him and he finished low to the Keepers` left to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 0 Neilston 1. A bad goal to lose for the home side however the Neilston player finished well. The `field had a couple of corners before half time however were struggling to break down a very well organised visiting defence and chances had been at a premium. HT:- Ashfield 0 Neilston 1 There were no changes at Half time and the home side knew they had to `up the tempo` to salvage the Match and just as they went in search of an equaliser found themselves 2-0 down. A soft corner on the right at the `Possil` end of the ground was cleared by John Gaynor however as Ashfield players ran out to play offside the ball was delivered back into the box with the Neilston Centre half getting a header in which cannoned off the base of the post and out however the ball broke out to Neilston`s winger McBryde who drove the ball through a ruck of players and into the back of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 0 Neilston 2. A real blow for the `field and they immediately made two substitutes bringing on Alan Cairns and Jordan Lynch with Paul Maxwell moving up front to partner Keigan Parker and Dean Leverage on the left and all of a sudden Ashfield`s passes started to flow finding better width and the Midfield two of Friel and McManus started to find some room. The `field were unlucky not to pull a goal back in a crazy couple of minutes as the Neilston Keeper drove the ball at Leverage, with the ball then finding Stevenson who drove the ball into the net however Referee ruled it out for offside. Next a passback from the Neilston Centre half was handled by Tirpoloulos however Parker`s free-kick from the penalty spot area was headed off the line. A minute later however and Ashfield got their reward. Keigan Parker delivered a lovely floated corner to the back post and Paul Maxwell guided his header downwards and into the far corner of the net. Ashfield 1 Neilston 2. The home support began to see the home side work up a real head of steam and 3 minutes later, Kenny Hadden`s long throw in was won by Paul Maxwell in the box with the ball breaking to Keigan Parker on the edge of the six yard box and the Ashfield Striker took one touch before despatching the ball into the roof of the net. Ashfield 2 Neilston 2. It was certainly `game on` and the home side knew there was something on and straight from the kick off the ball was played through to Dean Leverage and as the Neilston Keeper let the ball squirm from his grasp Halliday slipped on the ball before pushing it away with his hand and Referee Lee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Ashfield`s Captain Ciaran Friel stepped up and drove the ball home with the aid of the crossbar to the delight of the home support. Ashfield 3 Neilston 2. This had been an amazing turnaround and the visitors were struggling to forage forward with Ashfield pushing high up the park and on the 77th minute further increased their lead with the best goal of the game. Mark McManus who worked tirelessly throughout the Match won the ball in midfield before playing the ball out right to Keigan Parker and the Ex-St Johnstone and Blackpool player cut the ball back to the edge of the box where young Dean Leverage first timed his shot into the roof of the net to start the celebrations. A wonderfully taken goal from the Ashfield youngster. Ashfield 4 Neilston 2. It was difficult to imagine this scoreline after an hour of the Match however the changes to the formation in Ashfield`s set up worked magnificently enabling the `field to produce the type of form that they had been producing in the first tranche of League games. As the Referee brought proceedings to a close, in a Match played in very good spirit, it was the young Ashfield Academy kids that ran on the pitch to celebrate with the home side. A great day all round for Ashfield and commiserations to Neilston and we wish them all the best for the Season. FT:- Ashfield 4 Neilston 2.

This is proving to be a cracking League this season with a lot of good teams . Great result for Ardeer yesterday and it shows if you go `on a run` like the Ants that you can come into contention from a slow start. We have only 2 League games in November due to Cup games so big game for us next week at Thorniewood.

Looking forward to visiting Craighead Park on Saturday for the Lesmahagow-Ashfield Match. I haven`t been there since January 2009 - all the makings of a cracker. Great video of Ashfield`s Cup Tie day last Saturday v Banchory St Ternan:- https://youtu.be/w0gLUJkVqYY Big thanks to Jonny Rae for putting this together. https://www.ashfieldfootballclub.com

Looking forward to visiting Craighead Park on Saturday for the Lesmahagow-Ashfield Match. I haven`t been there since January 2009 - all the makings of a cracker. Great video of Ashfield`s Cup Tie day last Saturday v Banchory St Ternan:- https://youtu.be/w0gLUJkVqYY

Match Report from Ashfield`s game v Vale of Leven yesterday (22/9/18). All other Match Reports and Pics on https://www.ashfieldfootballclub.com Bright sunshine greeted both teams onto the Saracen turf as Ashfield and Vale of Leven set about getting `back on the rails` after last week`s defeats against Newmains and Lesmahagow respectively. Ashfield made two enforced changes and started with Patrick Cullen and top scorer Graeme Hearton in midfield berths with Billy Stevenson back in action partnering Keigan Parker up front. It was the visitors that made the first chance of the match in the opening minutes as McNaught got clear of his marker only to be denied by the legs of John Mullen in the Ashfield goal. Ashfield heeded the warning and played some nice football resulting in a number of corners. Ashfield almost went ahead in the 12th minute when a lovely whipped in corner was met by Ciaran Friel and his glancing header missed the far post by inches. A few minutes later however and the `field went ahead following a sweeping move. Keigan Parker picked the ball up just inside the Vale half and drove towards goal before slipping in an onrushing Graeme Hearton. The ex-Rossvale striker drove the ball low and hard towards goal with the Vale keeper getting something on it which diverted the ball onto the post only to see Billy Stevenson tap the ball home despite the attentions of the Vale defence. Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 0. The `field continued to press and Kenny Hadden`s long throw-ins were causing problems in the visitors back four however on the whole the Vale Keeper did very well. Billy Stevenson and Mark McManus had efforts which went narrowly over the bar as the home side finished the half on a high. HT:- Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 0. The home support were clearly hoping that missed chances would not come back to haunt them however this game was a completely different affair in the 2nd with the Alexandria outfit putting on an excellent show which was appreciated by their travelling support. The visitors seemed to re-organise their front line and put the `field back four under pressure firstly in the 55th minute, following a sweeping move the ball broke to a midfielder who drove the ball low and hard past John Mullen only to see the ball cannon back off the post and straight into the arms of the big Ashfield Keeper. A real let off for the `field. Next up was a succession of corners which on the whole were well defended however the last one saw an onrushing Vale player win the header only to see the ball blocked on the line by Paddy Cullen. The `field were restricted to break-aways and they still looked dangerous with Stevenson and Hearton going close however with 12 minutes to go the visitors equalised. A move down the left wing saw the ball cut back into the penalty spot area with Gallagher for the Vale being first to react as he volleyed the cross into the top corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 1. The match then began to become very open as the home side went in search of trying to get a winner. This was helped by the dismissal of a Vale player for a 2nd yellow card with 8 minutes to go. Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel thought that he had won the Match for the `field as he weaved past 4 defenders in the 90th minute only to see his net bound effort blocked by the legs of the Vale Keeper. Referee Craven brought proceedings to a close shortly after and taking the whole game into account, a draw was probably a fair result. Both teams had put in a very good shift and as for the `field they still remain top of the League albeit are now `catchable`with Lanark and Lesmahagow`s game in hand. The `field`s next League game is a mouth watering one at Lesmahagow on the 6th October at Craighead Park however before that the League takes a rest and Ashfield welcome Banchory St Ternan to Saracen next Saturday (29th - 2.30pm KO) in the 2nd Round of the Scottish Junior Cup. (Photos of today`s game on `Match Photos` Section). FT:- Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 1

Match Report from Ashfield`s game v Vale of Leven yesterday (22/9/18). All other Match Reports and Pics on https://www.ashfieldfootballclub.com Bright sunshine greeted both teams onto the Saracen turf as Ashfield and Vale of Leven set about getting `back on the rails` after last week`s defeats against Newmains and Lesmahagow respectively. Ashfield made two enforced changes and started with Patrick Cullen and top scorer Graeme Hearton in midfield berths with Billy Stevenson back in action partnering Keigan Parker up front. It was the visitors that made the first chance of the match in the opening minutes as McNaught got clear of his marker only to be denied by the legs of John Mullen in the Ashfield goal. Ashfield heeded the warning and played some nice football resulting in a number of corners. Ashfield almost went ahead in the 12th minute when a lovely whipped in corner was met by Ciaran Friel and his glancing header missed the far post by inches. A few minutes later however and the `field went ahead following a sweeping move. Keigan Parker picked the ball up just inside the Vale half and drove towards goal before slipping in an onrushing Graeme Hearton. The ex-Rossvale striker drove the ball low and hard towards goal with the Vale keeper getting something on it which diverted the ball onto the post only to see Billy Stevenson tap the ball home despite the attentions of the Vale defence. Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 0. The `field continued to press and Kenny Hadden`s long throw-ins were causing problems in the visitors back four however on the whole the Vale Keeper did very well. Billy Stevenson and Mark McManus had efforts which went narrowly over the bar as the home side finished the half on a high. HT:- Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 0. The home support were clearly hoping that missed chances would not come back to haunt them however this game was a completely different affair in the 2nd with the Alexandria outfit putting on an excellent show which was appreciated by their travelling support. The visitors seemed to re-organise their front line and put the `field back four under pressure firstly in the 55th minute, following a sweeping move the ball broke to a midfielder who drove the ball low and hard past John Mullen only to see the ball cannon back off the post and straight into the arms of the big Ashfield Keeper. A real let off for the `field. Next up was a succession of corners which on the whole were well defended however the last one saw an onrushing Vale player win the header only to see the ball blocked on the line by Paddy Cullen. The `field were restricted to break-aways and they still looked dangerous with Stevenson and Hearton going close however with 12 minutes to go the visitors equalised. A move down the left wing saw the ball cut back into the penalty spot area with Gallagher for the Vale being first to react as he volleyed the cross into the top corner of the net to the delight of the travelling support. Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 1. The match then began to become very open as the home side went in search of trying to get a winner. This was helped by the dismissal of a Vale player for a 2nd yellow card with 8 minutes to go. Ashfield Captain Ciaran Friel thought that he had won the Match for the `field as he weaved past 4 defenders in the 90th minute only to see his net bound effort blocked by the legs of the Vale Keeper. Referee Craven brought proceedings to a close shortly after and taking the whole game into account, a draw was probably a fair result. Both teams had put in a very good shift and as for the `field they still remain top of the League albeit are now `catchable`with Lanark and Lesmahagow`s game in hand. The `field`s next League game is a mouth watering one at Lesmahagow on the 6th October at Craighead Park however before that the League takes a rest and Ashfield welcome Banchory St Ternan to Saracen next Saturday (29th - 2.30pm KO) in the 2nd Round of the Scottish Junior Cup. (Photos of today`s game on `Match Photos` Section). FT:- Ashfield 1 Vale of Leven 1

Bad day at the Office yesterday however firstly we wish the boy Hannaway well having been stretchered into an Ambulance. The 30 Minute delay to the game didn`t help the flow of the Match however we lost our way and Newmains finished the stronger team with some talented individuals playing for them this Season. It is just one of those grounds that we never manage to play well at - last Season we scraped through 4-3 there. We must `dust ourselves down` and look forward to the next two League Matches against Vale of Leven (h) and Lesmahagow (a). Every game this year has been a cracker and I do believe that the standard is higher this Season.

Many thanks for the message, Indeed we are in process of building another good team with right blend of youth and experience in order firstly to get out this difficult League. After that then our aim will be to get back to the higher Leagues. We always talk about our games with the Talbot fondly, one of our best performances was in the WoS Cup Semi at Auchinleck (3-0) however for me unfortunately one of the one`s that still sticks in the memory was when we reached the top of the Premiership for 1 week after winning 5 out of our first 7 Matches as `new kids on the block` in the League when Messrs Spence, White and Milliken gave us a masterclass in beating us 9-1 to bring us back down to earth !! All the best for the Season Ewan

Ashfield Team Photo for Season 2018-19:- Ashfield F C 2018-2019:- Top Row (L-R) - Ryan McLaughlin, Kenny Hadden, Dean Leverage, Graeme Hearton, Mark McManus, Gavin Goodall and Jordan Lynch. Middle Row (L-R):- Nicky Hughes (Kit Man), Gary McLenaghan (GK), Alan Cairns, Gordon Passmore, Michael Giblin, Billy Stevenson, Colin Leverage, John Mullen (GK), Robert Fairfield (Physio) and David Goodall. Front Row (L-R):- Patrick Cullen, Ross Hamilton, Ryan Cairley (Assistant Manager), Ciaran Friel (Captain), Paul Maxwell (Player/Manager), John Gaynor and Keigan Parker.

It all starts in earnest today and a Season we are very much looking forward to. Some new places to visit and we have a young squad that will improve week on week. The League Cup was an excellent early season test against SuperLeague opposition and we are all looking forward to first game at Carluke this afternoon...........`mon the `field !

It all starts in earnest today at Carluke for us today, so would like to wish all the Teams all the best for the coming season and look forward to travelling to a couple of grounds that we haven`t played at for a number of years.