BEN Rhydding did themselves proud in a difficult double header which saw them tackle league leaders, Leeds on Saturday and then former National League side Wakefield on Sunday.

Rhydding gave Leeds a real run for their money before going down to a 4-2 North Men's Premier League defeat and then shared a thrilling 5-5 draw at Wakefield.

They were the first to score against Leeds with a sensational goal from Max Helme following a visionary pass from Rob Ramsden. Leeds came back at them and put away two goals to take the lead and a third, against the run of play, made it tough for Rhydding.

Struan Connor slotted a fine goal from a Musgrave cross but the game then slipped away as Leeds held onto the ball with great composure for long spells. A penalty stroke for Leeds sealed their win.

Sunday’s trip to Wakefield brought a frenzied game with both teams fighting to the bitter end and having to settle for a point each in a 5-5 draw.

Wakefield took the lead with a chaotic goal in a packed circle. Rhydding replied almost at once with a great counter attack which produced a classic Will Musgrave-Struan Connor connection and a clinical finish.

Helme scored to make it 2-1 with a brave slide onto the post after sterling work from James Cutter. George Gamble dominated the midfield throughout the game and was tireless in his efforts to break lines and create chances.

Ollie Hopkinson-Cook claimed the third in just his second appearance for the first team to give Rhydding a clear lead and put them into a comfortable position at half-time.

Wakefield came out hard and scored early to get back in the game. Rhydding nudged it on to 4-2 with a stunning corner from Will Musgrave. Wakefield pulled it back to 4-3 with a superb drag flick at a corner before Rhydding stretched it to 5-3 with another great corner routine and Will Musgrave goal.

An overturned umpiring decision caught Rhydding out of shape and a snap goal from Wakefield came with just five minutes to go.

In the dying minutes of the game, a corner was given against them and Wakefield’s star player made no mistake. The 5-5 gave the crowd their money’s worth but was a tough blow for Rhydding.