ABERFORD ALBION 1 BOROUGHRIDGE 2
‘Bridge travelled to Aberford looking for three points and to consolidate their run of form since the enforced snow break. The start, however, was below par with the home side very much in their faces, picking up on the mistakes and not allowing them anytime on the ball. Nevertheless the best of the early chances went ‘Bridge’s way with Paul Eagling twice creating chances for himself only to see his first well saved by Brendan Wood before firing well wide of the post with his second. Aberford, in contrast, relied heavily on the aerial threat of Martin ‘Crouchy’ Britton and despite several corners and free kicks they failed to take advantage of their possession and Bridge’s ineptitude. Most of their success was coming down the right flank with Danny Chadwick finding more space and time and on 39 minutes, shortly after Alastair Hogg had made a fine save, he provided the decisive cross for Britton to stoop and head in the opener. A forthright and blunt half time team talk had the desired effect for ‘Bridge and within a minute of the restart parity was restored. A partially cleared corner fell to Eagling who struck a tremendous drive against the underside of the bar from the edge of the box and with Wood well beaten Ben Mudd was on hand to head in the equalizer. This was just the fillip they needed and their work all over the park showed a greater diligence and confidence and it was the visitors who were now posing the greater threat. Just on the hour mark ‘Bridge added their second, with what proved to decisive goal, when Andy Layton threaded a ball through to Eagling who, with Ian Simpson in hot pursuit, showed great composure to chip the advancing Wood. Although in general control of the game Bridge were not able to get that vital third and had to withstand a late Aberford surge with Hogg making a smart near post save to deny Stephen Wardman towards the end. This was a massive result for ‘Bridge and their resolve will be tested further over the next two weeks with home fixtures against Knaresborough and Bardsey.
MOM RICHARD MULLEN