South Yorkshire Times – Saturday 23 February 1952
Wath-Born City ’Keeper was the Star at Denaby
Denaby United 1, Bradford City Reserves 2
Denaby can blame Wath-born Frank Hyde for not at least gaining one point from this game, writes R.P.E. Frank was in goal for Bradford City Reserves, and he was the best player on the field at Denaby. He certainly saved Bradford from going under in the first half, when Denaby were turning on the pressure after being a goal down in the first minute.
The slickness of the Bradford forwards contrasted with the more vigorous Denaby attack plan, but both were as effective. It was a poor day for the defences, however, and it was Williams, Denaby’s captain, who let City through straight from the kick-off to score. He slipped in the mud, the forwards were past him, and Harston conceded a corner. From the kick MURPHY, Bradford’s left-half, rattled in a 30-yard shot which went in off the crossbar.
Denaby were shaken, but ten minutes later came back with a concentrated barrage on the Bradford goal, Hyde saving in rapid succession from Sarson, Cooling and Rowney. Eventually, out of a goalmouth scramble, SARSON got past him, and levelled the scores.
The second half was as different again from the first. Whereas the football had been good, it now deteriorated into mere kick and rush, and it was no surprise when GREENHOFF, Bradford’s left-winger, scored an almost casual goal nearly ten minutes after the start of the second half.
Denaby were unlucky to lose, but they will have to tighten up their play if they intend doing any better.