In a closely contested Northern Premier Division match-up against Basford United FC, Atherton Collieries AFC couldn't capitalize on their performance and suffered a 2-1 defeat at their home ground.

Two goals by Basford United FC in the second half proved insurmountable for the home team, although they managed a goal in return. The first and second goal for Basford United FC came at 00:53:34 and 01:18:05 respectively while Atherton Collieries AFC responded with their only goal of the match during the 72nd minute.

While Basford United FC may have prevailed on the scoreboard, they were frequently put on their back foot in defending set-pieces. Atherton Collieries AFC dominated the corner kick statistics with a total of eight, considerably more than the three earned by Basford United FC. This suggests a territory and possession advantage for Atherton Collieries AFC, albeit one they failed to convert into more goals.

Conversely, the discipline on the field was full of yellow cards, with five issued in total. This circumstance might point towards a fiercely competed game. Basford United FC saw three of their players booked, the first one before half-time and another two shares almost back-to-back yellow cards in the second half. Atherton Collieries AFC, on the other hand, collected two, with both coming late in the game. Neither team committed many fouls, with Atherton Collieries AFC registering none and Basford United FC just one, which emphasizes a relatively clean, albeit hard-fought game.

One notable factor to observe was Atherton Collieries AFC's failure to turn their possession and territory advantage into scoring opportunities. Although they commanded the corner kick count, only one goal was scored by them. On the other hand, Basford United FC's efficiency in front of the goal resulted in a win, demonstrating that games are often decided by clinical finishing rather than possession statistics.

In summation, the ability of Basford United FC to convert their few opportunities, coupled with their resilience in defending numerous set-pieces, shaped the course of the match. Atherton Collieries AFC will surely reflect on their inability to convert evident advantage into goals and will plan to improve for their upcoming fixtures.

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