Published Date:
23 November 2009
By Staff Copy
Driffield football veterans made their annual pilgrimage to Harrogate, this being their 15th!
First up though was a trip to Wetherby races to help the players relax. A good afternoon was enjoyed by all, but without much success against the bookies.
Then it was a quick stop in Wetherby town centre where 'Robert Ronnie' Lawson showed why he is in line for a 'Best Actor' nomination with a fabulous performance on the famous peak flow meter.
The lads then made their to Harrogate where they removed their '118 regalia' and headed into town for a few pre-match drinks followed by a dodgy curry.
Tour supremo Barry Greenlaw ensured everyone was safely tucked up in bed ready for the following morning's challenge.
They arrived at Rossett School in good spirits to face 'Fenton's' fantasy eleven. Peter Beagrie was unable to make this year's starting line-up due to his Sky Sports commitments. Driffield sensed this could be their day.
England manager Fabio Capello would have been envious of the Driffield bench which included the 'Walster' Walton, Bezzie, Smithy, Knighty, 'Rocket Ronnie' Lawson, Brenty, Ricky and Ted.
Greenlaw once again took centre stage, literally, as he refereed from the centre circle with his eagle eyes. Driffield started brightly and were knocking the ball around well. It came as no surprise when they did take the lead, a next move including Kitey and Watson down the left saw Appleby find time to crash his shot home from 20 yards.
Dennis the cat was living up to his name when he pulled off several fine saves as the long arm of the law in Deverson and Bowman did their best to protect him.
Then it was the turn of Gibbo to turn provider, albeit for entertainment, as his balance can only be described as 'Todd Carty' like. Peat, Dean, Wilson and Croft worked tirelessly in midfield trying to cut out the Harrogate threat. Just before half time Harrogate did equalise, ex York City striker Blackstone beat five players before hitting a shot so hard Dennis didn't have time to see it.
Driffield started the second half on the back foot as Harrogate pressed forward. They took the lead when the overworked defence failed to clear and a forward beat Dennis from close range.
Things got worse for Driffield when Dennis had to go off injured. Wilson went in goal and Lawson into midfield.
Harrogate added a further two strikes which flattered them a little but Driffield did grab a consolation when Appleby added a second.
All in all a fair result but Driffield played with real spirit and commitment. It was back for the post match ceremony at another local hostelry before making their journey back to Driffield with a few stops on the way.
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Last Updated:
21 November 2009 12:15 PM
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Source:
Driffield Post
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Location:
Driffield