Colls Are Staying Up!
Pontefract Collieries secured their Northern Premier League North-East Division status for another season with a vital 2-1 win over Bradford Park Avenue on Easter Monday at The Hunters Stadium.
In front of a home crowd and a heavy West Yorkshire rain, Jimmy Williams’ side had the chance to put safety within reach with a strong showing in the early Bank Holiday kick off—and they grabbed it with both hands!
Ponte started brightly and took control from the first whistle. After early chances for Mikey Dunn and Bailey Thompson, the breakthrough came on 13 minutes. Dunn collected a pass from Thompson, turned his man and returned the favour with a well weighted through ball. Thompson kept his cool to drill home at the near post – under the keeper for one-nil.
The Colls doubled their lead after the half hour. After more sharp work from Dunn, Harry Spratt sent in a cross that found Louie Chorlton, who rose brilliantly to head in the first header of his career!
Just before half time, Avenue almost halved the deficit – but Spratt was there again with a crucial block at the back post to preserve the two goal lead at the break.
The second half mirrored the first in intensity, with Ponte still on top but unable to find a third. At the heart of the defence, Mark Beevers stood tall, winning everything in the air and leading by example.
However, Bradford Park Avenue did find a route back into the game. Following a physical midfield battle, Benny N’Dlovu broke down the right and crossed low. The ball deflected perfectly to substitute Paddy Sykes to tap in from close range.
With nerves beginning to rise, the tension was eased when Iyrwah Gooden—already on a booking—saw red for a high challenge, reducing the visitors to ten men.
Despite late pressure, The Colls saw the game out professionally to claim a massive three points and guarantee their league survival. Elsewhere, results confirmed Brighouse Town as the final team to be relegated, joining Sheffield FC, Sherwood Colliery and Liversedge.
There’s still one game to play—a final day West Yorkshire Derby away at Garforth Town next Saturday!