LEIGH RMI's promotion hopes took a jolt when they lost their first league away games of the season.

The 2-1 defeat at Matlock was their first league reverse since the home defeat by Droylsden on the opening day of the season.

And they followed that with Monday's 2-1 defeat at Ashton United.

Against Matlock they took the lead in 24 minutes with a long ball by debut ace Andy Burns led to Chris Shaw nipping in to beat Phil Robinson for his 17th goal of the season. But the lead was short-lived. Paul Barton blasted home from the edge of the box five minutes later.

The winner came 18 minutes from time in bizarre fashion when the ball struck defender Mark Schofield on the heel and dribbled in for an own goal.

Although manager Steve Waywell considered it an improved performance, he is still concerned about the shortage of chances.

"We played better than we did at Eastwood, but we must capitalise on our pace and power up front," he said.

"Although we lost ground to Radcliffe and Lincoln we are still in third place and in a good position. The ball is still in our court."

Against Ashton they had to battle back from two down, sub Steve Shaughnessy getting his first goal for the club on 77 minutes.

"We haven't played well since the long break for bad weather and we need to get back to basics," said Waywell.

"There comes a time in a season when players have to roll up their sleeves and battle. That time has come."

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