Leeds Modernians 0

Oxenhope 1

OXENHOPE had to battle to hang on to their solitary goal advantage and the three points in this West Yorkshire League Division One clash, as Leeds Modernians put them under siege in the second-half.

Missing five of the usual first-team squad, the visitors played well against a team who took the points from them at the Recreation Ground last month.

Tom Marshall and James Bailey had success down the flanks, providing the ammunition for front men Lee Reilly and Scott Nelson. In the middle of the park Danny Makinson and Ben White took control.

Just before the break Oxenhope grabbed the lead, a Bailey corner was swung in, the Leeds defence failed to clear their lines and Nelson took full advantage, heading the ball home.

After the break it was the home side who took control but the Oxenhope patched-up back-line produced a superb defensive display. Dayne Ward, Luke Scott, alongside young Joe Bairstow and Owen Williamson tackled and cleared every ball and when they were beaten, goalkeeper Ricky Driver was there to tidy up.

Leeds were camped in the Oxenhope half for most of the second period as the visitors were reduced to breakaways.

The Worth Valley side were relieved to hear the final whistle and gain revenge over their rivals. This Saturday they travel to Featherstone (2.30pm).

Meanwhile, Oxenhope's young second string produced one of their best displays of the season, surging to a four-goal advantage before the Huddersfield side pulled two goals back in West Yorkshire League Alliance Division One.

The visitors steadied the ship in the second-half and went on to add a further three goals.

On target were man of the match Luke Brooksbank, who scored four, plus strikes from Leon Drake, Jake Dowden and Liam Bonner. On Saturday Oxenhope Reserves entertain Hartshead Reserves (2.30pm).

Meanwhile, Oxenhope eased their way into the semi-final of the Under-18s Cup competition with a 5-3 victory over Thackley despite some wayward finishing in front of goal.

Luke Brooksbank and Macauley Smith hit two apiece and Jake Scott converted a penalty.