Nantwich Town’s inconsistent early season form continued with a disappointing 4-0 defeat at Trafford.
The Dabbers, hoping to build on their win over Matlock and push up the Evo-Stik Premier Division, welcomed back former Crewe Alex winger Steve Jones (pictured) from injury.
But Danny Johnson’s men never really got going against his former side, and were beaten by three second half in each half.
Nantwich began well and had early chances through Aaron Burns, Andy White and Max Harrop.
But Ashley was tested on a number of occasions by Trafford, and they took the lead when Shelton Payne’s free-kick was fumbled in by Ashley.
Andy Smart smashed a shot against the Nantwich bar before the break.
Any hopes of a comeback for Nantwich were snuffed out just five minutes after the restart when Michael Oates netted to make it 2-0.
Payne grabbed his second goal to make it 3-0 in the 67th minute with a dipping shot over the keeper.
And he completed his hat-trick three minutes later from the penalty spot after he was brought down in the box.
The Dabbers continued to press but could not find the consolation goal that they deserved.
The defeat leaves them in 14th spot, and already eight points off the top three.
The scheduled league game against Barwell has been postponed as Barwell are in cup action.
Nantwich return to action next weekend away at Workington in Cumbria.
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