Curzon Ashton 3-1 Stalybridge Celtic: Tameside derby goes to the Nash

Curzon Ashton won the Tameside derby 3-1 against Stalybridge Celtic in the English FA Trophy on Saturday 26 September 2026, producing a composed and clinical performance at the Tameside Stadium. The home side scored twice in the first half, absorbed a spirited Celtic response, and then sealed the tie with a third goal after the break.

Local derbies often bring extra intensity, and this FA Trophy clash was no exception. Curzon Ashton’s pressing and quick combinations in the final third proved the difference, while Stalybridge Celtic’s fighting spirit kept the contest alive until the closing stages.

Match overview

Curzon Ashton started with purpose, pressing Stalybridge’s defenders and forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. The opening goal arrived inside the first 20 minutes, and the home side doubled their lead before half-time with a well-worked move that cut through the middle of Celtic’s defence.

Stalybridge Celtic responded after the interval, pushing more players forward and pulling a goal back to set up a tense period. But Curzon Ashton managed the game well, slowed the tempo when needed, and found a decisive third goal to end any hopes of a comeback.

Key moments

• Early pressure: Curzon’s high press forced a mistake, and the opener was finished with a first-time strike.
• Second goal: A slick passing move ended with a low cross converted at the back post.
• Celtic lifeline: Stalybridge pulled one back early in the second half with a header from a corner.
• Goalkeeping heroics: Curzon’s goalkeeper made a crucial save to preserve the lead at 2-1.
• Third goal: A counterattack was finished emphatically, restoring the two-goal cushion.
• Late control: Curzon kept possession and limited Celtic to half-chances in the final minutes.

Tactical story

Curzon Ashton’s 4-2-3-1 shape allowed them to press aggressively while keeping a solid base in midfield. Their No. 10 found space between the lines, and the wide forwards made intelligent runs inside to overload Stalybridge’s centre-backs. The home team’s transitions were particularly effective, turning defence into attack within seconds.

Stalybridge Celtic improved after half-time by switching to a more direct approach and pushing their full-backs higher. The set-piece goal gave them belief, but Curzon’s experience showed in the final 20 minutes. They slowed the game, drew fouls, and picked their moment to counter for the third goal.

Standout players

Curzon Ashton’s No. 10 was the best player on the pitch, dictating the tempo and creating chances with clever passes. The centre-forward led the line with strength and movement, while the goalkeeper made a vital save at 2-1. The captain in midfield provided leadership and energy throughout.

For Stalybridge Celtic, the left winger caused problems with direct running, and the centre-back who scored the header was a threat from set-pieces. Their goalkeeper made several saves to keep the score respectable.

What it means

Curzon Ashton move into the next round of the FA Trophy with local bragging rights and a confidence-boosting win. Stalybridge Celtic exit the competition but can take encouragement from their second-half response. In a derby, the result matters more than the performance, and Curzon will be delighted with both.