Denaby Unperturbed by the Big Names

Denaby United 1, Bradford City Reserves 0

Denaby United could have been forgiven for being a little apprehensive about their clash with Yorkshire league newcomers Bradford city reserves, but they showed in the first five minutes of Saturday’s game that they fear no names of reputations in this League.

They are playing modern football to perfection at Tickhill Square these days, and this was shown by Alan Cooper appearing on the left wing and both Jimmy Wiggles and Peter Caunt turning up in Bradford’s area before the visitors realised they had arrived. The Bradford side turned out to be a very young one. Still rather wet behind the ears when it came to planned moves, but they had enough basic skills and bags of enthusiasm to prevent this being a walkover for Denaby.

Strong Defence

The industry of Waudby, who covered almost every blade of grass on the field, was particularly noticeable, but the home defence dealt convincingly with everything the youngsters could fling at them.

Gordon Smith, hardly troubled in the first half, showed his class with two full-length saves after the restart, but really Bradford is expeditions into the Denaby area were more cheeky than dangerous. Frustration set for Denaby supporters after the first goal by Mike Smith, a beautifully taken one from a pass from Ken launders.

“Dick” Barton was well clear with only Butler to beat, but hesitated and was robbed by Barlow. Then after the restart Roy Collins shot just over the bar and Mike Smith snapped up what appeared a beautiful goal, only to have it ruled offside.

So, Denaby could have made their victory more decisive, but at least they gained two points and should win promotion on this form.

Teams and ratings: Denaby: – Smith (Gordon) 8; wiggles 8, Caunt 7; Colin7, Cooper (B.) 8, Ainscouugh 7; Cooper (A.) 8, launders 7, Barton 7, Smith (M.) 8, Smith (Gary) 8.

Bradford.: – Butler 8; alam 6, York 8; 7, Barlow 8, Hargreaves 7; Walker 6, Waudby 8, Webster 7, Sykes 7, Ferriers 6.

Referee: Mr W. A. Mariott (Eckington).