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Match Details: Tuesday 12th November 2002 Northern Premier League Premier Division
Attendance: 266 Wakefield-Emley: Cuss Nicholson Crossley Wilson Coleano David Day Thorpe Bambrook Tonks Wood Subs: Adams Reynolds Ryan The Tigers put up a brilliant performance at championship contenders Wakefield and were desperately unlucky not to come away with all three points. Hyde had the majority of the play and with better finishing, would have won easily. There were plenty of changes as Paul Ashwell, Matty Taylor and Troy Hayder had ruled themselves out for various reasons and Rob Woodhead (hernia) and Mike Lomax (cracked ribs) were injured. Kevin Hulme was working, but has pledged to be back for Saturday, contrary to reports he is joining Leigh. Gordon Hill moved Dave Swanick to right back and he had a terrific game. Shame there were not more fans there, but Wakefield have failed to ignite local interest, whilst our own dedicated band are probably shell-shocked. With more performances like this, they will be back. Matthew Wright made his debut at left back, Julian Ward in midfield and Ryan Hevicon on the left wing. Jay Anthony and Steve Foster were recalled up front. Hyde were on top throughout the first period and it was no surprise when Foster put us in front on 34 minutes. We should already have been ahead. Wakefield equalised on 51 minutes when Larry Farren made a rash challenge in the area and Simeon Bambrook (as always) scored from the spot. It was pretty even after that with both teams having opportunities, but most of the play was from Hyde. The defence looked secure and David Linighan had a superb game and inspired all around him. The Crookes' boys go from strength to strength. Dom is back to his best and Peter made crucial saves when he needed to Plenty of cliches are possible. Gordon's first point, first point away from the stadium, run of 12 consecutive league defeats has ended etc etc. Perhaps, more importantly we have matched one of the best teams in the league and outplayed them for most of the game. Just like we did at Vauxhall last week. It's a slow process, but we are getting there. The team are playing as a far more compact unit and once the injuries are cleared up and we get a settled side, we should be in better health. |