The battle for the top of the league came down to this match. With James and Halifax equal on points, goal difference was going to be the deciding factor. On this count, James have the edge over Halifax, especially after their 10 nil victory over Langwith on Saturday.
Halifax now look to have lost the title as a strong, if numerically depleted team, Alcuin team put up a strong fight. The match looked equal from the start, Alcuin benefitted from Halifax’s lax positioning-which clumped their own play.
The score, however, was not going to remain equal for long. Halifax finally utilised the space with Graeme Osborn and Isaac Barker hanging high, playing the ball from Osborn to Barker who hammered the ball into the empty goal.
Alcuin were strong on defence throughout the match. Steph Ashwood especially seemed fearless on the goalline. Despite receiving a few knocks from Halifax, she stayed firm and prevented more goals from being scored.
Halifax made it 2-0 with a perfectly placed reverse sweep from Alex Francis. His shot from the penalty spot easily sailed past the Alcuin defence. Graeme Osborn finished Halifax’s first half run at goal, slotting the ball home.
Alcuin must be credited for their performance especially in the second half- they let only two goals in. Halifax’s fifteen players proved invaluable in the scorching heat (for England… in March) especially in comparison to Alcuin’s nine meaning none of the players could have a break.
Alcuin continued to push onto the Halifax defence. Alcuin devotees Jamie Randall and Dave Washington proved pivotal in playing the ball up to the Halifax quarter. Halifax’s sometimes questionable marking provided Alcuin with opportunities in the D. However, quick defence from Rory Walker and Joe Lancaster saw these off.
Craig Dixon scored Halifax’s fourth of the match. After a prolonged scuffle on the goalline; Dixon got the final touch to pop it under an Alcuin stick. Graeme Osborn scored hs second after a drive down the right line was fired into the D, for Barnaby Spink to deflect it to Osborn who slammed it in.
With the match ending at five nil, James and Halifax will have to just wait to see who clinches the cup title, although the smart money would be on James claiming first place over the defending champions.
Vision MOTM: Dave Washington