Leece on target as FC Isle of Man beat Ashton Athletic

Ravens record back-to-back wins with hard-fought display

A close-range strike from Dean Leece has seen FC Isle of Man record back-to-back league victories as they emerged 1-0 winners away against Ashton Athletic this afternoon (18 February).

After a strong start to proceedings, the Manx side earned the only goal of the contest in the 22nd minute when Leece was on hand to convert a rebounded Jacob Crook strike.

Bottom-of-the-table Ashton Athletic - who've recorded much improved results in recent weeks - pushed hard for an equaliser in the second half but were utlimately unable to break down a resolute FC Isle of Man defence.

The result means the Island outfit have secured consecutive league wins for the first time since late November/early December.

Ravens' interim manager, Paul Jones, says his side had to find a different way to win this afternoon during a tough contest:

The Ravens went into today's clash at Brocstedes Park following a convincing victory last time out, however they faced an Ashton Athletic side who were also taking to this game off the back of an impressive win away at AFC Liverpool last Saturday (11 February).

The Island outfit began today's fixture with a positive tempo creating numerous opening within the opening 20 minutes.

On 22 minutes, the visitors broke the deadlock as Jacob Crook received a Ste Whitley cross on the left before cutting inside and unleashing a strike on goal, and whilst his initial shot was parried, striker Dean Leece was on hand to pick up the rebound and slot home from close range.

After taking the lead, FC Isle of Man continued to push to extend their advantage for the remainder of the opening half but had to settle for a 1-0 lead come the half-time whistle.

Into the second 45, and FC Isle of Man began to soak up an increasing amount of pressure as time edged past the hour mark with Ashton Athletic upping their attempts to find an equaliser.

But the Island side were able to hold firm as Paul Jones made a raft of second-half changes to keep up the energy levels of his side as they continue to shut their opposition out to hold on for a 1-0 win and three valuable points come the final whistle.

The result means FC Isle of Man move onto 32 points after 32 games - the Ravens next outing will be away against Prestwich Heys on Saturday, 25 February, kicking-off at 2pm.