Scarborough men edged out by Dragons in finale
Keeper Allison stars in clash of the two relegated sides in Yorkshire division three
Scarborough Men’s hockey team lost 2-1 at fellow relegated side Huddersfield Dragons 3rds in their final Yorkshire League division three game of the season.
Both clubs were determined to end the season on a high in preparation for life in division four.
Huddersfield began the early stages of the first half the sharpest as they forced the away side into mistakes, but keeper Tim Allison, Michael Waterfield, James McMillan and Chris Tait were on top form to keep the Dragons out with precise defensive tackles.
The Dragons’ determination and persistence paid off as they broke the deadlock with a short corner which was executed precisely.
Scarborough drew lev -el through forward Samuel Echevarria’s deflected shot at the back post, set up by Laurence Webb’s excellent pass.
As a result of the goal Scarborough grew in confidence and posed a threat to taking the lead.
Scarborough thought they had taken the lead through defender Michael Waterfield, who powered a bullet sl ap from the top of the d-box past the reaches of the goalkeeper, but the umpires ruled it out for an incident off the ball.
Temperatures were reaching boiling point due to the magnitude of the game and Nicholas Thompson saw yellow for five minutes.
The latter stages of the first half became very cagey as both teams went in in search of a half-time lead.
During the half- time interval Scarborough captain James McMillan urged his team forward after they ended the first half the stronger of the two sides.
The team-talk inspired the away side as they came out of the blocks the quickest as they passed the ball around accurately looking to stretch Huddersfield’s back line.
Scarborough were awarded a short corner but it was overturned and this allowed Hudders field to respond quickly by setting up a prompt counter - attack which the away side were unable to deal.
The Huddersfield forward powered them into the lead with a precise shot past man of the match Allison.
Scarborough’s young players Jay Meatheringham and Jordan Healy were having an excellent game in midfield and this was evident in their tackles and passing.
Joe Cook nearly provided an equaliser as he latched onto a drilled-in attempt at the left post his deflected effort went agonisingly past the post.
Scarborough continued to knock on the door with a host of attempts on goal, but Echevarria and Aaron Dyson were unable to provide the answer as Dragons’ defensive shape stood up to the challenge.
Time was running out for Scarborough to find that elusive equaliser and Dragons saw out the match to end their campaign on a winning note.
Scarborough will reflect on the positives throughout the league campaign and will be looking to develop the team during the pre-season ahead of life in the fourth division.
On Tuesday Scarborough Hockey Club will be hosting their AGM at the Cask Inn, 7pm start.