Ashby Ivanhoe 1-0 Ingles

Ashby continued their unbeaten start to the season thanks to Ash Garner's early second half goal - his first since signing for Ivanhoe this summer from rivals Stapenhill.

The goal came as a huge relief for Andy Gray's side who were coming off consecutive league draws without a goal from open play, and a first half against Ingles where quality was few and far between.

Their best opportunity came as Macauley Holmes met Chris Acott's corner.

The captain's header narrowly missing the target, brushing the crossbar as the goalkeeper was left stranded.

At the other end, the visitors could have snatched the lead when a free kick was hacked off the goal line by Ivanhoe.

This chance being the only major scare of the half for the hosts.

Ashby's play was much improved immediately after the break and Garner's goal reflected the increase in their intensity.

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Acott burst down the right side and calmly cut the ball back for Garner, who took a touch and slotted into the corner.

Garner has been a vital addition since his arrival, bringing physicality to the midfield while being technically sound and helping to support the attack.

Ashby were rarely threatened after the goal and could have doubled their lead through Sam Grouse, who saw his shot saved one on one by the goalkeeper.

Manager Andy Gray was positive about the result but recognised that his side must improve to keep pace with the league leaders.

''It wasn't a great performance all round but sometimes you grind them out,'' he said, adding that it is better to win 1-0 than 7-6.

Ivanhoe return to the NFU in midweek as they host Chelmsley town.

Tuesday's visitors have won their last two games and will provide another tough test for Gray's team.