Old Boys Score + News

Dean Ashton and Michael Higdon continue to impress this summer. Dean Ashton returned to his old club Norwich City tonight in a pre-season friendly with West Ham, and showed he is well on his way to a full return from his broken ankle.

Ashton played up front for 80 minutes at Carrow Road and scored what turned out to be the winner in a 2-1 defeat of Norwich. In a match West Ham completely dominated, Dean chipped in with his fair share of chances; a solo effort saw him nearly chip 'keeper David Marshall before he scuffed a shot just wide of the left hand post. However, he was on form to slot home a rebound after Marhall did well to parry Bobby Zamora's initial shot.

It was Ashton's second goal in as many games after scoring a 30 yard stunner last week against Leyton Orient.

Also playing in the match was former Alex full back Jon Otsemobor. The scouser showed off his mazy runs down the right wing but came unstuck as his poor positioning led to West Ham's opener.

'Semmy' played alongside 18 year old Norwich striker Chris Martin who has this week been linked with a loan move to Gresty Road.

Meanwhile, Michael Higdon continued to impress up north. 'The Don' headed home an equaliser for his new club Falkirk in their 2-1 win over Hamilton. It's Higdon's 3rd goal of the summer as he looks to resurrect his career in the SPL.

Finally, Lee Barnard hit a brace for Tottenham in their game at Rushden & Diamonds tonight. The young striker was set to make a loan move to Gresty Road last month till the London club stopped the transfer. Barnard scored either side of half time with his first being a chested volley on the turn [into the top right corner].