| DANBY & CASTLETON 0 FIRST INN 0 |
| First earned a very rare 0-0 draw at Larpool Lane against Danby & Castleton. Once again, manager James Howard favoured the 4-5-1 formation, with Darren Wright and Dean Abbott both returning to the midfield. Influential defender Adam Steele was absent, so Mick Bagshaw returned to central defence. As against Rugby Club, Mike Headlam was the lone striker, with Grisedale and Webster on the bench. After just 15 minutes, First had probably their best chance when Howard played in Mike Headlam but the teenager's shot was parried by the relieved keeper. First lost Usher, who was suffering with a pulled muscle after half an hour, Chris Headlam dropped to right-back and Dave Webster replaced him on the right wing. First had most of the possession but the villagers put themselves about and the First Inn defence battled brilliantly alongwith a well organised Jackson behind them. The second half saw Steve Grisedale replace Paul Owen, as First went for two up front. But it was too little too late and at the other end, Danby even rattled the crossbar. Right at the death, Howard's powerful low drive was paried well by the Danby stopper. Lee Oliver made a rare appearence, replacing Wright but despite a crunching challenge, couldn't affect the blank scoreline. Despite the blank scoresheet, this was an impressive defensive display with Tose, Thomas and Bagshaw outstanding. Headlam adjusted well to right-back and Jackson was solid, deserving his clean sheet. Jackson, Thomas, Usher(Webster), Tose, Bagshaw, Owen, Howard, Abbott, Wright(Grisedale), C Headlam, M Headlam. Sub not used: Hunter. Man Of The Match: Mike Thomas- Solid at the back. |
| Sunday, January, 12th |
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