Gainford Cross Keys 2, Huntsman 1
After six weeks without a competitive fixture due to the weather, the Huntsman were finally back in action on Sunday away to Gainford Cross Keys in The Heart Foundation Cup.
The original fixture was due to be played at Simpasture Park, but due to a waterlogged pitch; the fixture was reversed to Gainford, whose pitch was in excellent condition.
The match started very scrappy, with neither side really getting to grips with the game, possible showing signs of rust due to not playing recently.
However, the away side slowly started to build some momentum, and finally broke the deadlock as a good piece of play down the right hand side provided Shaun Sproates with a good opportunity.
His right-footed shot stung the hands of the goalkeeper, and Reed Molloy was on hand to tap in.
This lead didn’t last long however, as Gainford got a free-kick on the edge of Huntsman’s box in a dangerous position. Goalkeeper Anthony McDonald was left helpless, as the free-kick was bent low into the bottom corner around the wall to make it 1-1 at half-time.
The home side picked up where they left off in the first half, and it was another set-piece that was Huntsman’s undoing.
Mcdonald was adjudged to have handled outside his area from a goal-kick, and the resulting free-kick was dispatched from 18 yards into the far right corner.
As much as the away side tried to get back into the game, they simply couldn’t muster any further clear cut chances as the home side ran out deserved 2-1 winners.
Next up is a Division Two top-of-the-table clash against fellow unbeaten side Coundon Durham Ox this Sunday – a win for either side would put them three points clear at the top (kick-off 10.30am at Simpasture Park).