Curzon Ashton Snatches Late Victory Over Worksop Town in Tense Encounter

Curzon Ashton's late goal from Ezennolim in the 87th minute secured a crucial away victory, pushing them further up the table while leaving Worksop Town in a precarious position. This match encapsulated the contrasting trajectories of both teams, with Curzon Ashton now sitting comfortably in mid-table, while Worksop remains mired in the relegation zone.

Curzon Ashton's recent form has been a mixed bag, but this victory marks a significant turnaround after a disappointing loss to Scarborough Athletic. The win against Ilkeston Town in the FA Trophy showcased their ability to grind out results, and this match further solidified their resilience. With six wins, six draws, and five losses, Curzon has shown they can compete effectively, averaging 1.41 goals per game. Their ability to capitalize on late opportunities, as seen with Ezennolim's decisive strike, highlights their growing confidence.

Worksop Town's recent performances have been erratic, oscillating between moments of brilliance and defensive frailty. Despite a thrilling FA Trophy win against Chorley, their league form remains troubling, with only one win in their last five league matches. The 0-1 defeat to Curzon adds to their woes, leaving them with just 18 points from 17 games. Their defensive vulnerabilities were evident once again, as they failed to maintain composure under pressure, conceding a late goal that could prove detrimental to their survival hopes.

Burrow has been a standout for Worksop in recent weeks, scoring in their previous matches and providing a glimmer of hope for the struggling side. However, his efforts were not enough to inspire his teammates against Curzon. The lack of consistent support from the rest of the squad has been a recurring theme; Worksop's inability to convert chances into goals continues to haunt them. They average just one goal per game in the league, which is simply not enough for a team fighting relegation.

Curzon's midfield dynamo, Curran, has been instrumental in their recent successes. His ability to control the tempo and create chances has been vital for Curzon's attacking play. The team's overall balance has improved, allowing them to exploit gaps left by opponents. This match was no different; Curzon capitalized on Worksop's defensive lapses and maintained pressure throughout the game, culminating in a well-deserved late winner.

The tactical battle was evident as both teams struggled to assert dominance. Worksop's attempts to push forward often left them exposed at the back, while Curzon's disciplined approach allowed them to absorb pressure and counter effectively. Set-pieces emerged as a potential game-changer, with both teams showing vulnerabilities in defending dead-ball situations. Curzon's ability to capitalize on these moments proved decisive.

Looking ahead, Worksop Town faces South Shields next, where they must find a way to turn their fortunes around if they hope to escape the relegation zone. The pressure is mounting as they continue to struggle for consistency. Meanwhile, Curzon Ashton will face Darlington 1883, looking to build on this momentum and push for a playoff spot.

This match serves as a stark reminder of the fine margins in football. For Curzon Ashton, it's a step towards stability and potential playoff contention; for Worksop Town, it's another painful chapter in a season filled with challenges. The stakes are high as both teams navigate the complexities of the National League - North, where every point counts and every match could define their season.