South Yorkshire Times August 12, 1950
“Scouts ” At Denaby
A number of League club scouts are being attracted to Denaby United’s trial matches at Tickhill Square. I understand that Williams, the promising centre-half, singled out following last Monday’s game, was snapped up by one of these clubs. On Saturday Denaby officials took the precaution of not disclosing the names of players on view until after the game, when the Reds beat the Blues 4-3.
A significant positional switch was made with the introduction of Bernard Saxton (picture) into the Reds’ team. Noble, who made a good impression in last week’s game at right back, was played at centre half in the Blues’ team. He played a steady game against last season’s leading Midland League goal scorer, but had not the speed to combat Saxton’s lightning thrusts down the centre. The experiment was not unsuccessful, but I should say Noble is one of the most promising young full backs Denaby have had on trial.
Saxton, of course, was not extended, but he has lost none of his speed and is working the ball as well as ever. His excellent anticipation was shown when he nipped in to head home a corner kick for his first goal of the season. He scored a second before half-time, and completed his hat trick in the second half.
Botwood, the Reds’ goalkeeper, was much busier than in Monday’s game, but confirmed the good impression he made at the time. He made two masterly saves in the second half, and was always well behind the bail.
United officials were keenly interested in the performance of Hibbert, at left half for the Blues. He showed up well in the first half with some sound, constructive play, but tired towards the end. In. front he had a lively winger in Salt, although Parkin, the Reds’ outside right, was the most dangerous wing forward on the field. He put across a number of really good centres, and appreciated the value of a first-time shot.