It’s crunch clash for key rivals

Nov 9 2007 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

EMLEY MOOR and Newsome Panthers are ready to lock horns in what is without doubt the Pennine League match of the day.

The Huddersfield rivals go head-to-head at the Welfare Ground tomorrow (2.00), with the winners moving two points clear at the top of the Second Division table.

Both sides have won six and drawn one of their opening eight League fixtures, with Moor ahead on points difference.

But that could all change this weekend as the duo seek to gain a key psychological advantage over their rivals from the town in the title race.

But there’s also a massive game in Division III at the top of the table.

Leaders Lindley Swifts have made an excellent start to the season and are unbeaten in their opening eight League fixtures.

However, they are still behind fellow unbeaten team Bank Top Harriers.

And with the pair clashing this weekend, there could be plenty of fireworks in what is clearly the most important game in the division so far.

The outcome will also be of major interest to third-placed Slaithwaite Saracens, who will remain within touching distance of the leaders if they win at Selby Warriors.

Staying in the leading pack is also the aim of Underbank Rangers in Division IV.

If results go their way this weekend, obviously starting with their tough clash at second-placed Dudley Hill A, Underbank could take the Bradford club’s spot.

Underbank did, of course, warm up for the trip with last week’s big win over Meltham All Blacks, who will be desperate to bounce back with a home win over Thornton.

And bouncing back is also on the agenda for St Joseph’s.

After a couple of encouraging Premier Division displays, coach Jody Shaw’s side slipped back with the home defeat to Clayton six days ago.

However, that disappointment could be forgotten if they return to winning ways at Keighley Albion.

Moldgreen also need a lift in Division I after defeat last weekend, and that could be achieved with a home success against West Bowling A.

Moldgreen’s second team are also in action in Division V at Siddal B, while St Joseph’s A host Woodhouse Warriors in Division VI and Slaithwaite A entertain Rochdale Mayfield B in Division VII.