Great Harwood came out on top in a five goal thriller against promoted team Langho Juniors.
Needing to get points in the bag this season it was important that the Great Harwood lads showed some grit and determination as well as the flair and technical ability they have shown over the first 3 defeats this season.
With a full strength squad to choose from for the first time this season manager Nigel Sutton picked an attacking line-up with captain Jack Hargreaves playing just off front man Joe Blackledge. After an end-to-end first 10 minutes Blackledge had 2 chances to put the home side ahead. He was finding his range and Great Harwood went one up following good work out on the right, Blackledge finishing well. Within 5 minutes Blackledge extended Great Harwood’s lead as confidence grew. Closing into half-time Arron Phillipson struck a trademark freekick high into the roof of the net to make the game look comfortable at 3-0.
However on the stroke of half-time it was Langho who clawed a goal back. A fantastic shot was hit by Langho’s forward and despite keeper Marc Smith getting a hand to the ball, it nestled into the corner. Game on.
Langho came out more determined in the second half and some resolute defending by Karl Sutton, Danny Smith, Dominic O’Brien and George Carter held the opponents at bay until late on in the game when the deficit was reduced after a good finish. A few nervous moments followed when both sides went close but the game was ground out and the first points of the season go to Great Harwood. The lads now should see this as the kick-start to their season, some more competitive games are to follow over the next four weeks where more points are there for the taking. If all the lads continue to put in 100% like today they will pick up more points and more good wins.
Man of the Match was given to Marcus Robinson for a tireless midfield display. Jack Hargreaves had a positive game in the “Scholes” role just behind the main striker.
