PADIHAM went down to a disappointing 2-1 home defeat against Ashton Town in NWCL Division Two.

The Storks could have no complaints about the result as they were always second best to a sharper, better organised and more determined opposition.

Ryan Cain headed Ashton in front after seven minutes play, Dean Stowe equalised in the 32nd minute following a well-worked move involving Darren Fullard and John Harrison and 20 minutes into the second half Phil Holland headed in the winner for Ashton when Padiham keeper Kirk Marsden failed to cut out the cross.

Padiham have only won once this year and manager Graham Haworth will be looking for an improved performance on Saturday when the Storks travel to play Leek CSOB.

PADIHAM...1 ASHTON TOWN...2

PADIHAM RESERVES reached the semi-finals of the North West Counties Football League Reserve Cup with a 2-1 away win over Atherton Collieries Reserve side.