Frickley U23s 0 Pontefract Colls U23 0
No game for 8 weeks, 6 players making their debut, playing against a side full of confidence and on an unbeaten run of 29 games – champions in waiting, so a tough night was expected.
It certainly didn’t disappoint as the visitors dominated the 1st half but they couldn’t find a way past Frickley’s defence which had 16 year old Frickley academy graduate Ben Jennings making his debut at full back. Along with more experienced Callum Beaumont, Ross Nowodny, Ryan Clements and the returning Sam Cullingworth plus the super confident Ross Pritchard in goals, who all performed heroics to keep the talented opponents out.
Second half saw a change in shape and the introduction of 16 year old Joshua Smith who was also making his debut, he slotted into the heart of the defence and showed maturity way above his years in continuing to frustrate our visitors who were still on top and creating the better chances.
One particular opportunity saw Ross Pritchard make an outstanding save by turning a close range shot onto the cross bar, a super instinctive save right out of the top draw.
The game was more equal in the second half as the hosts were starting to create some good chances, mainly involving Matty Hughes who was a constant threat. Late on he crossed for the onrushing Josh Cummins who unfortunately couldn’t convert.
Another 16 year old playing his first game was Dainton Armitage who worked tirelessly in midfield alongside Mitchell Smith and Harry Alexander.
Unfortunately John Nimely, also on debut, was shown a straight red in the final minutes. The decision seemed harsh in a game that wasn’t physical but played in the right spirit by both sides.
Ultimately Pontefract will have gone home wondering how on earth they didn’t get all 3 points but it was a combination of grit, determination, good fortune at times and outstanding goalkeeping shown by a team that is in transition and looking to build again for the future.
#forzafrickley
