Skip to main content

Shelf United v Ryburn United

6.15pm  26 April 2017

Halifax and District League, Premier Division
Shelf United 0 Ryburn United 6 (att 10)

When I Tweeted Shelf United to check this game I received a reply, tongue in cheek I think, that if I brought my kit I might get to play. I spared them that, but while they weren't shot of players they were short of a referee.

After a short delay the fixture eventually got underway with one of the Shelf coaching staff taking the whistle. He had a decent game, unlike his players who were well beaten and could easily have conceded more.

Shelf United needed a win to lift them out of the bottom two (and what I assume to be likely relegation places), but unfortunately for them they faced a Ryburn side needing points to finish as runners-up.

Despite the one-sided outcome it was an enjoyable game to watch. Ryburn scored twice in quick succession about midway through the first half to take control, though they had a penalty well saved just before the break.

The visitors dominated the second half, scoring four more and missing several easy-looking chances. Shelf United didn't give up though, but couldn't get a goal their efforts deserved.

They still have one more game to get the points they need to avoid the drop, but Shelf United have done well to compete at all this season. They were left homeless after last season, when the local council condemned and closed their changing rooms.

They've found a new home, for this season at least, at Lightcliffe Academy. The main football facility here is a railed off pitch used by Brighouse Old Boys in the West Yorkshire League. They were also at home tonight, but on the other side of a line of trees is a larger sports field with several pitches, one of which is used by Shelf United.








Comments