Thrice Lost Lead
Chesterfield Reserves 3 Denaby United 3
A victory for Denaby would have been a good result of this game at Chesterfield. Denaby were the more effective side, though they had to make no less than three last-minute changes. Uren was unable to turn out owing to a sprained ankle and Skelton did not put in an appearance owing to his work taking him out of the area. Fitzgerald was transferred from right-half to centre-forward, his place being filled by Crossley, of Mexboro’ Secondary School Old Boys’ while Roberts, usually a right-half, occupied Uren’s position.
Fitzgerald was not very effective as leader of the attack and changed places with Armand, one of the best players Denaby have tried in the position. He was a constant worry to the home defence. Fitzgerald in the second half did plenty of good work in feeding Armand and Siddall. Crossley certainly justified his inclusion. Roberts played a sound game in his new position and the club have discovered in him another strong back. Astle was again in form and Smith stood out in defence. Siddall was a dangerous winger.
Three times were Chesterfield in arrears but each time drew level. Dolman often saved his side, Orisih and Gregg being unsteady. The half-backs were moderate, while Wrightsworth, Weaver and Turner were the best Chesterfield forwards.
Siddall rounded Gregg to give Denaby the lead. Chesterfield made a bold bid to equalise when Weaver placed the ball in the goalmouth but the inside men failed to seize the chance. Chesterfield drew level when Turner converted a centre by Weaver. On resuming each side scored in the first minute. Denaby went straight down the field and scored through Armand, Dolman failing to hold the shot. From the centre Turner sent the ball out to Weaver who scored with a first-timer. Following a combined movement by Fitzgerald and Siddall the latter sent the ball across the goalmouth to Haggar who made no mistake with a left foot drive. The teams were soon on level terms when Dawson hit the post and Turner headed in from the rebound.