By Alex Noonan
Photos: John McEvoy/Leeds Shots
Russ Wilcox’s side ended pre-season with a 5-1 home defeat to National League side Scunthorpe United, with a scoreline that flattered the guests who rattled in four goals in the final 12 minutes.
Five minutes into the game, debutant Reagan Ogle opened the scoring for Scunthorpe.
However, it took only ten minutes for Jimmy Spencer to make it 1-1 with a cool finish inside the box.
Despite a strong start, it was Farsley who were on top for the majority of the first half. Jacob Gratton looked the most likely threat for Farsley, and came close as he cut in from the left and forced the Scunthorpe ‘keeper Marcus Dewhurst to make a great save.
Midway through the second half, the visitors made eight substitutions, and that proved to be a crucial moment as the fresh legs proved all-important.
The rain appeared to be an advantage for Scunthorpe, making the surface quicker for their attackers. Farsley had a couple of chances to take the lead but the crowd had to wait until the 78th minute for the next goal, when some great build up play led to a second goal scored by midfielder Cameron Wilson.
With the Celts tiring, Scunthorpe took advantage as Nat Wallace made it 3-1 in the 81st minute.
The visitors’ attack was too energetic for Farsley’s defence, as Lewis Butroid accidentally played the ball to Charlie Burden-Whittleton, who passed it into the net.
Burden-Whittleton quickly made it five, as he converted a volley after a cross from Wilson in the 86th minute and confirmed the Celts’ defeat.
Farsley gave a great account against the recently relegated League Two side, where they could’ve seen a more positive result on another day.
Next up is the season opener, with a trip to Leamington next weekend.
