Farsley Celtic moved to the top of the Evo-Stik Division 1 North after defeating strugglers Hyde United 2-1 on a chilly day at Throstle Nest, writes Thomas Ritchie.
Both teams struggled to create any opportunities in a scrappy opening to the game, but midway through the first half Farsley almost took the lead after Aiden Savory played in Lewis Nightingale who curled his effort inches wide of the upright.
As clearcut opportunities remained sparse, Farsley ‘keeper Graeme McKibbin was forced into a save after Kyle Brownhill’s effort took a slight deflection off Nathan Turner before he blocked with his feet.
Just before half time James Burke received a needless yellow card for dissent after a disagreement with the referee.
Early on in the second half Farsley took a deserved lead as Jacob Hazel delivered a pinpoint cross to Aiden Savory who powered his header past Hyde ‘keeper Russ Saunders and into the goal.
There was a comedy moment in the second half as Lewis Nightingale was tripped by teammate Chris Howarth, however the referee adjudged this a foul much to the delight of the Celtic faithful.
Just before the hour mark Farsley came close to doubling their lead as Paul Walker squared to Nightingale after being played through by Aiden Savory, however as Nightingale flicked the ball towards goal Saunders flew across his goal and made a spectacular save.
Adam Clayton should have scored for Farsley as he had a free header from Nightingale’s free-kick however he failed to hit the target.
Paul Walker was then felled by James Burke as he looked to break away, which resulted in the Hyde defender being given his marching orders as the referee deemed this a second bookable offence.
Unfortunately this incident left Walker injured and he hobbled off minutes later to be replaced by Jordan Deacey on his return from injury.
Farsley did double their lead after Chris Howarth crossed for Hazel following his mazy run, Hazel nodded down to Savory who smashed home from close range to bag his brace. Hyde gave The Celts a late scare as Big Khamsuk slotted into the bottom corner to pull one back for Hyde, however Farsley held on to secure all three points and move to the top of the league.
Farsley Celtic: McKibbin, Hardy, Clayton, Turner (P. Davidson 46), Savory, Miller (c), Nightingale, Daly, Hazel, Howarth, Walker (Deacey 78). Unused subs: A. Davidson, Lofthouse (GK).
Hyde United: Saunders, Burke, Brownhill, Dempsey (c), McGurk, Coates, Wassi (Cadman 80), Fitton, Bishop, Bevins (Boyle 69), Khamsuk. Unused subs: Forth, Branker, Leadbetter.
MOTM: Aiden Savory
Attendance: 208