After losing the first five league matches Lindum Mens 1st XI have started to find some form having lost only one league game in their last five. Lindum (7th in the table) travelled to Harrogate (4th in the table) who have lost two in their previous five matches, however still maintained their 100% winning home record.

Head Coach and Captain Gary Johnson, who was sidelined due to a virus, warned the team of Harrogate’s record and how vocal the local fans could be. “Harrogate do not lose at home easily” the skipper said pre match. As we walked to the pitch, three things were immediately noticeable, firstly the wind was howling and whipping through the exposed pitch, secondly the rain was horizontal and ice cold and thirdly I was definitely wearing the wrong pants for this weather.

The match started and Lindum were first on the scoresheet by a deflection from leading goal scorer and all round nice guy Ric Corbett, Mike White providing the assist from a free hit just outside the 25 yard line. Shortly after, Andy Robinson dispatched the ball high into the net from the baseline, after a mesmerising run. Then another! This time from Rob Johnstone, a beautifully weighted aerial from Thom Fowler for the youngster to take a touch into the D and unleash a Tommahawk low like a Pro into the corner.

Then the packed spectators’ dugout was silent. Johnson’s men were rampant!

Half time. 3-0. Johnson gave his team encouragement and sent them out early to get the game going and try to keep warm.

Lindum extended their lead through a lethal Mike White drag flick, top left, and then again from a powerful, determined Stephen Glodkowski run, slotting the ball over the logged keeper.

5-0 up, 44 mins gone and Lindum were cruising, Mike White and Sam Temple-Baxter orchestrating the play. Matt Ingram and Ben Leeming in defence were solid and offering outlets going forward. Then Harrogate turned the tide with some good pressing, poor defending and generous umpiring, scoring three goals. 5-3; 17mins left to play.

Lindum regained control of the match and composure despite Harrogates efforts in a comeback. On the 66th minute Lindum won a penalty corner, Mike White stepped up fancying his chances against the keeper, who had so far been quick to log. White rocketed a drag flick high in the centre of the goal, the keeper managed to get a stick to the ball but only to deflect it into the top right corner. Harrogate were left deflated after a valiant fight back.

Lindum saw the rest of the game out in control and with the likes of Glodkowski, STB, Harry Swift and George Johnstone in midfield never looked like running out of steam.
Full Time: 6-3

Tom Saunders