Atherton LR were knocked off the top of NWCFL First Division North after a goalless draw at Ashton.

LR almost took a smash-and-grab lead in the opening 15 minutes as a foul on Brandon Dawson gave them a free-kick in a dangerous position. Benni Wilkinson swung a brilliant cross over the crowd of players, destined for Luke Nicholls who caught the ball with a clean header but some goalkeeping magic denied him at close range.

Ashton had chances with a corner floated across the box for a header to bounce onto the bar.

A slow end to the first half was followed by a quick-paced opening to the second, with Ashton capitalising on the space afforded to them which allowed them to drum a low shot towards the bottom corner but it was saved.

The game became a physical stalemate and the lack of chances caused the tension to rise and the noise from both sets of supporters drove both teams on to push for that last-gasp winner.

It was not meant to be for either team as the referee blew the whistle and both teams earned a point for their efforts.

LR boss Dave Jones said: “It was a proper battle, we knew that coming in. I thought the lads dug in deep, like we asked of them before the game. You are missing like five or six lads their today, lads that have played a lot of football so far. Your missing bodies and it’s difficult but I said before the game to the lads, no one is interested in that, we’re interested in getting in there and putting a performance together.”

“Looking back, draw, fair result; but for us coming here - you’re coming to one of the favourites of the league so for us to come here and get a point is absolutely fantastic, I’m made up with it.”

LR next host newly-promoted Maghull at Crilly Park on Saturday (3pm).