Perfect start for Men's 1sts

The Halifax lads beat a strong Harrogate team who are sure to be up in the promotion chase this season.

As in previous week, the team started slowly and for 15 minutes were clearly 2nd best in all departments and it was no surprise when Harrogate took the lead.

This goal seemed to wake the team up and they were much more competitive with Leigh Walker and Henry Shelton more assured in the heart of the defence and Josh Foreman getting to grips with his skilful right wing.

Matthew Graham had a couple of excellent chances after good work from Josh Sutcliffe and Tom Love but good goalkeeping and mistimed shots saw the team fail to get on the scoresheet.

Walker got the equaliser from a penalty corner forcing the ball home after a goalmouth scramble. The introduction of veteran defender Richard Marshall into the right back position and young startlet Matthew Bairstow on the right wing enabled the team to attack more effectively down this flank and chances were being created.

However a complete misjudgement by Matthew Metcalfe in the Halifax goal saw Harrogate take the lead early into the 2nd half.

With the team playing well, the game was far from over and with Jake Bamforth and Graham back in harness as a twin strike force, goals were likely and it was the prolific scoring stick of Graham that was on fire.

1st with a superb reverse stick shot from a Gabriel Coleman pass, then a strong shot after a great first touch following an exquisite pass from Bairstow.

This proved to be the winning goal and Halifax will be full of confidence going to Hull next week to play Hull university 1st X1.

Unfortunately both Damien Reynolds and Leigh Walker suffered with hamstring injuries and must be doubtful for next weeks game