On Saturday gone we played a double header of games at the SHOH Sports Ground against much higher ranked opposition entertaining Wiggington Grasshoppers from the York premier division and Riccall Reserves from York Reserve A.

We started brightly v Wiggington with Chris Harkin’s free kick causing problems as it hit the underside of the bar and looked to have crossed the line for a 1 nil lead. The Front two of littlewood and Harkin supported by Brace caused problems throughout and we maybe should have had a few more goals for our efforts. Harkin did manage a second goal as he slid the ball home after a powerful run from Deacon Brace. There were good performances for a number of new players with Dominic and Ryan looking comfortable at this level. Wiggington used the space on the pitch and at times looked like they had an extra man in every position.

A chastising result but a good experience for the season.

The second game kicked off with Paul Brewins team only having 10 men as numbers were needed with the first team.

In a 442 formation they looked solid throughout and created chance s when up to full strength.
Last seasons u16’s again all looked comfortable and will be a great asset this season. Daniel Tame got his first goal for the Malt Shovel finishing neatly to equalize.

There was some robust tackling and Charlie in Midfield gave no quarter as he looked to impress on debut.

Sheldon, Palmer and Billingsley all looked very comfortable in the back four and James O’Farrell rehabilitating himself with a good runout.

Only in the last ten minutes as subs were made did Riccall get on top and duly scored two goals to win the match 1-3.