Silsden's optimism dented in opening game (From Craven Herald)

Silsden's optimism dented in opening game

11:49am Thursday 9th August 2012 in Sport

AFC Liverpool 2 Silsden 1
Following a good pre-season, the Cobbydalers were looking to start off their new North West Counties League Premier Division campaign with a victory.
They were gifted a goal early in the game but failed to capitalise on a number of chances before conceding two goals in the opening half.
In the second period, they lost their way, hitting long balls up to the forwards, who were dominated by the taller defenders.
It was such a contrast from the opening exchanges, when the ball was moved swiftly on the floor.
Silsden were without John Douglas, Joe Gaughan and Kevin Ryan but they still had enough experience to create chances.
James Nettleton was called into the action early, blocking Daniel Wilkinson’s shot.
Next it was Silsden’s turn. Elliot Holmes slid the ball through to Mike Garrod but the striker’s low shot was well saved by Carl Williams.
Barry Francis had an effort comfortably saved by Christian Paulat-Brigg but the Silsden keeper was relieved to see Lee Madin’s shot rebound off the bar.
Peter Hanson then slid the ball wide to Holmes. He moved the ball to Garrod, who shot agonisingly wide.
The Liverpool defenders were engaging in a dangerous game, playing the ball across the face of goal. When the keeper hit a pass out to Steve Williams, he returned the ball back into the goal area.
The No 1 wasn’t looking and the ball went into the net.
Silsden almost went 2-0 up when Andy Lee’s cross from the left was met sweetly by Garrod but it struck the head of Jack Sinnott.
Liverpool levelled in the 28th minute when John Lawless’ speculative volley was misjudged by Paulat-Brigg.
With a minute left in the half, AFC took the lead. Steve Williams chipped a ball over the back four and Lawless ran though to score.
More sloppy play in defence gave Lee a simple opening to level but he blasted over.
AFC created more chances after the break, Paulat-Brigg managing to parry Mucktar Mahama’s cross-shot clear.
The hosts used tactics to slow play down as the Cobbydalers’ play degenerated into hitting hopeful balls.
In the final minute, Nettleton’s header cleared the bar.
Silsden – due to host Bacup Borough last night – start their FA Cup campaign at home to Brighouse Town on Saturday (3pm). They travel to Colne next Tuesday (7.45pm).