Embsay u-15s 4 Silsden Reds u-15s 7 Silsden Reds moved into first place in Craven, Aire & Wharfe League Under-15 Division C with a convincing win.

The match was played on the Sandy-lands all-weather pitch in Skipton in order to beat the freeze and both sides took some getting used to the fast-paced surface.

In-form Reds forward Jack Shaw put Silsden into the lead after being set up by Zac Shaw’s crafty pass.

Embsay nearly equalised but keeper Josh Clarkson pulled off a quick save low down and full back Harry Leach cleared the rebound to cap an impressive first-half defensive stint.

A swift counter-attack was thwarted by Embsay, only for Jake Lee to hit a high shot from outside the area which just looped in over the stranded goalkeeper.

Silsden’s pressure created many corner kicks and just before half-time they added a third as Kieran Pennington raced in first to head home.

The start of the second half saw Silsden hit a purple patch, with great passing, movement and finishing as Lee made it 4-0 by scoring direct from a low corner.

Embsay pulled a goal back but Reds restored their advantage when Shaw thumped home following a mazy run and cross from James Darcy.

Five became six as Kieran Darcy split the Embsay defence with a pass to leave the tireless Shaw a chance to lob the keeper for his hat-trick.

After all this effort Silsden seemed to slow down and Embsay were allowed to come right back into it with three well-worked goals.

However, man of the match Shaw had the last shout when he ran through and lashed in his fourth goal and Silsden’s seventh.

l Keighley Shamrocks are keen to recruit players for their under-eight team.

Any youngsters in school year three wanting to join are encouraged to attend training on Saturday mornings (11am) on the artificial surface at Marley. Cost is £10 per month to join.

For more details, email donna palmer1@live.co.uk.