Skip to main content

Berry Brow v Huddersfield YMCA

6pm  16 April 2019

Huddersfield FA Challenge Cup, Third Round
Berry Brow 3 Huddersfield YMCA 4 (att 50)

I was in two minds whether to risk a rush hour journey to Berry Brow in time for a six o'clock kick off, but the M62 was in a compliant mood and I was rewarded by a terrific cup tie.

Huddersfield League Berry Brow are just one level lower than their West Yorkshire League visitors, but the gap looked wider as YMCA took a second minute lead and added two more goals, one a penalty, before half time.

A fortunate deflection gave them a fourth goal in the second half, and it looked as if they were coasting into the quarter finals. But Berry Brow threw caution to the wind and it so very nearly paid off.

They got one goal back with 20 minutes left, a penalty made it 4-2 five minutes later, and then a third goal set up a thrilling finish.

Pushing forward for an equaliser left gaps at the back. YMCA nearly exploited that but had to settle for a last minute penalty when the home keeper brought down a forward as he closed in on goal.

The spot kick was saved, keeping the Berry Brow in the tie, but despite chances in stoppage time they couldn't complete what would have been a remarkable comeback.

Berry Brow Recreation Ground is a basic venue, as you'd expect in the Huddersfield League, but the undulating pitch is flanked on one side by a steep grass bank that provides a good elevated view. Changing rooms are in a building at the edge of the playing field.









Comments