1874 are 11 points off the pace after Tuesday night’s first loss under the stewardship of Paul Bowyer and Wayne Goodison.

The Northwich side are yet to taste victory at Ashton Athletic, having produced a loss and two draws previously, and their fate was sealed when the hosts took a decisive lead in the 73rd minute.

Scott McGowan had given 1874 an early advantage and Sam Hind levelled matters around the 60th-minute mark, soon after Ashton had gone in front for the second time in a game played at high pace between teams keen to get forward.

The home netminder was unable to prevent McGowan finding the net in the fifth minute – his second goal since returning and his 18th of the season so far.

It was a dream start for both player and his team.

Shortly before half time Athletic levelled through Marcus Cusani after 1874’s defence failed to clear danger.

The second half followed a similar tune, both sides pushing forward and the defences seeming capable of avoiding the threats.

But then shortly before the hour mark Ashton forged ahead as Danny Regan took advantage of some poor defending before hitting the mark from 12 yards.

Minutes later the scores were level again when Hind netted following some good build-up play.

There was a sense that 1874 could gather momentum and add another goal but the home side had other ideas and Joel Brownhill’s cool finish sealed the deal.

1874 | Hall (GK), Connor, Russell, Mitchell, Lever (Bove 81), Hare, Joe Woolley (Whitlock 65), Mark Jones, Carey, McGowan, Edwards (Hind 45) Subs not used Matthew Woolley, Tulloch

Attendance 125