Otley Town 1, Sherburn 0

On an excellent day for football, a large crowd watched Otley Town’s West Yorkshire Association League Premier Division clash against Sherburn.

Otley had a couple of players out with injuries or work commitments, so manager Dave Morris brought in Academy player Sam Redhead for his first-team debut.

Town started well and passed the ball neatly on a good surface that had been prepared by Pete Cater. The hosts had several early chances, and Scott Cater went close after 15 minutes but put his effort over the bar.

Sherburn struggled to get into the game, and new boy Redhead looked at ease at full back.

Otley were also looking comfortable as a whole – that is until they reached the opposition penalty area.

After 35 minutes, Paul Harrison was put clean through by Tom Chadwick but just fired his shot wide of the post. Sherburn were a different side in the second half and came into the game more as Town could not maintain their grip.

However, their fighting qualities were still present and they battled for control of midfield.

It looked as if a goalless draw was on the cards but the introduction of Fred Ash changed Town’s afternoon. A low cross was deftly headed home by Ash to earn Town all three points.

Town are playing good football but need to be more clinical in front of goal.

On Saturday, they entertain Ripon City (2.30pm kick-off).