It was the first time the Rebels have beaten Radcliffe in four attempts this season and keeps Karl Marginson's men firmly in the UniBond First Division North promotion picture.
The fact they did it with an inexperienced side made the result all the more impressive. FC will hope to repeat the victory when the sides meet again in tomorrow's President's Cup final.
Radcliffe started the game strongly but were rocked by two FC goals in quick succession.
First the lively Baguley sent Robinson clear and the striker finished smartly into the bottom corner after 14 minutes.
With Radcliffe reeling, Baguley lashed home a shot high into the net three minutes later to double the advantage.
Radcliffe had chances to haul themselves back into the game, with Steve Howson blazing over when it seemed easier to score. Griff Jones then saw his header rebound off the angle of post and bar before Ashton denied the same player with a superb reaction save from point blank range.
FC brought on Stuart Rudd at half time and the striker was quickly into the action, his low shot stopped by goalkeeper Phil Priestley. The game continued to swing from end to end, with the impressive Ashton getting down quickly to deny Neil Chappell moments later.
Rudd was through again as the game approached the hour mark, but seemed to lose his bearings and prodded the ball wide.
To their credit, Radcliffe continued to drive forward but they could not find a way past Ashton. FC now have three league games remaining and Marginson is confident his side can win them all.
Next, though, FC will turn their attention to the cup final and the chance of silverware.
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phil m, cumbria (16/04/2008 at 12:11)
Free Red, Manchester (16/04/2008 at 13:32)
Directions: From Stockport (south) direction Leave the M60 at junc 23 (Ashton-U-Lyne). Turn left at the top of the slip road, go straight through the next set of lights, and bear right (onto Lord Sheldon Way) at the next set. Continue on this road until you come to a set of traffic lights with the Cineworld Cinema on your right. Turn left here onto Richmond St. Over the bridge, across the mini-roundabout and then first left down to the ground.
From Oldham (north) direction Leave the M60 at junc 23 (Ashton-U-Lyne) and turn right at the top of the slip road signposted A635 Manchester. Turn right at the second set of traffic lights, sign posted Ashton Moss, and then follow directions as from the south.
Parking. There will be a parking charge of £2.00 and once the ground car park is full then there will be parking available at the top of the access road. Parking for disabled drivers will be free but supporters must clearly display their blue badge. There is free car parking available on the industrial estate situated on Lord Sheldon Way which is a ten minute walk from the ground. Viva la revolution, come on FC.
JOHN STENSON (17/04/2008 at 10:07)