Despite a stirring second half comeback Mossley's under 18's side went out of the FA Youth Cup at Ashton Athletic after conceding twice in the closing minutes of extra time.

After a bright start to the game the Mossley youngsters went into their shell a little after the home side had taken a 13th minute lead through Adam Instone.

During the first half in particular Mossley had keeper Lawrence Gibson to thank for a number of excellent saves to keep the score at 1-0 at half time as Ashton, thanks in the main to lively and skilful number 10 William McCarthy who's range of skills and passing caused the Lilywhites youngsters plenty of problems.

The second half saw Mossley in more determined mood but they were dealt a blow when Jordan Coates squeezed the ball home from a tight angle to double the home side's advantage.

Cue the rival, Mossley finally got their passing game together, pressing higher up the pitch and forcing the previously dominant Ashton side into mistakes. Mossley were quick to capitalize as a poorly placed defensive pass saw Ryan Williams halve the deficit on 56 minutes.

Ten more minutes of Mossley pressure and the scores were level thanks to a superb solo goal. Last season's top scorer Arron Barrow dancing around several tackles before scoring off the inside of the left hand post from ten yards.

Mossley continued to dominate through the rest of the ninety minutes and a couple of half chances might have wrapped up a Mossley victory. However, it wasn't to be and extra time ensued.

Unfortunately for Mossley it was the home side who regained the upper hand but the game looked to be heading to penalties until Ashton won a corner with just six minutes of extra time remaining. The flag kick was highly fortunate for Ashton as the cross hit the far post and bounced straight back into the net off the unsuspecting Sean Meehan.

As Mossley went in desperate search of another equaliser they were caught on the break in the closing minutes and Tom Carmichael fired home the match clincher to give the home side a more flattering lead and end the tie as a contest.

However, the Lilywhites young team, containing three players from the under 16's side, can be extremely proud of the their hard work and absolute commitment to the Mossley AFC cause.

Wiz