Stubborn defence and sharp attack go head-to-head in top of table clash

THE TOP two sides in the Haslem-Sheppard Halifax League Premier Division clash this weekend when secondplaced Sowerby Bridge host leaders Shelf United.

The Bridge dropped their first points of the season last weekend when they were held 3-3 by Greetland.

Shelf United marched on with an 8-0 rout at Northowram and the key to this weekend’s game will be whether the solid Bridge defence can contain the free-scoring visitors.

AFC Crossley climbed up to third with a 4-3 win over Midgley United and are now very much in the title race. They visit bottom side Sowerby United.

Shelf FC are on a bad run with no win in their last four outings. They really need to win at Northowram to keep their receding title hopes alive.

Hebden Royd Red Star, who won 2-1 at Shelf Juniors, take on near neighbours Midgley United.

It’s top versus bottom in Division One when leaders Hebden Royd Red Star Reserves travel to struggling Flying Dutchman, who have yet to collect their first point of the season.

Having lost 9-1 to Shelf United Reserves last weekend, Dutchman’s form suggests they will struggle to end that wait against a team who have lost just once so far this season.

St Columbas are pushing the leaders but face a tricky game at Denholme United, who lost 5-2 at Ivy House last Saturday.

Ivy House are enjoying a good run and if they can overcome Illingworth St Mary’s, their title challenge would remain on the right tracks.

Shelf United gained their first win of the season last week but may find it hard to follow when they take on Calder 76.

Division Two leaders AFC Crossleys Reserves won 5-3 at Greetland Reserves and they host second placed Warley Rangers in a game that could go a long way in deciding the champions.

Greetland Reserves are enjoying a good season but face a test at the improving Calder 76 Reserves, who enjoyed a 7-4 success at Sowerby United Reserves last week.

Sowerby Bridge Reserves, who shared a 1-1 draw with Thornton CC last time out, look the likely winners in their game with Shelf FC Reserves.

Thornton CC look like being too strong for St Columbas Reserves, who drew 1-1 with Shelf Juniors Reserves.