NELSON showed real character and determination to come from behind twice and go on to take all three points against Ashton Town at Edge Green Street.

In the opening stages Ashton demonstrated why they have been enjoying a good start to the season and their eager attacking play was rewarded with a goal by centre forward Neil Lloyd after 14 minutes.

The Blues, who were missing several key players, stuck doggedly to their task and got their reward when player/manager John Bailey headed home a corner after 31 minutes to level the scores.

In the second half however, Ashton again went ahead when Steve Ellaby blasted in a shot from the edge of the area after the Blues defence failed to clear a loose ball in the 56th minute.

For a while it was hard to see how the Blues could come back into the game, particularly as they were playing up the slope of the Edge Green pitch.

Their determination payed off after 83 minutes when Jonathan Irvine got on the end of an incisive cross to sidefoot the equaliser from close range.

Three minutes from full time it was Shaun Lister's turn to finish off another good cross, turning it into the net with his outstretched boot to give Bailey's team a hard-earned victory.

Nelson are at home to Squires Gate on Wednesday (kick off 7.30pm).

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