It is an FA Cup 2nd Qualifying tie between the Sulphurites and Penistone Church FC. The game was predictable with the home side much more advanced in the pyramid controlling the game. For much of it, Penistone were on the back foot and defending determinedly, with a couple of breakaways although on occasions the Church penalty area looked a bit like a war zone. By half time the cultured Harrogate were still looking for their first goal and it took another 12 minutes for the deadlock to be broken. Penistone sagged although they continued to battle but the home side scored twice more.
Penistone return south with their heads held high and a league position to improve. Harrogate continue in their purpose of making progress in the Cup and of achieving Football League status.
Founded in 1914 the club could not get going; they did have a first fixture against Bishop Auckland to play but could not honour it due to the beginning of the War. Their hospitality suite is known as the 1919 Venue, when the club reformed. I believe it is a very impressive venue where the PCFC "officials" were wined and lunched ((roast beef was on the menu I was told). The club began life in the West Riding League and gradually has worked its way to the Vanarama National League North.
Investment and management by the Weaver family has created a well organised club with a 3G pitch, an academy (U19-21s), opportunities for education, hospitality and other community based events.
It looks as though the club is aiming for the Football League and knowing the state of some other FL clubs, they have facilities suitable for such elevation. Penistone leave the Spa town with a good reputation.
No comments:
Post a Comment