Shelley 2

Pool 2

POOL made the long trip to West Yorkshire League Division One leaders Shelley, and came away with a well-deserved point in a 2-2 draw which could so easily have been three.

The quality of the match was just what the spectators needed to brighten up the dull, miserable November afternoon.

The pitch was in excellent condition, allowing both teams to show what they were capable of, the match a high speed, end-to-end affair.

Shelley took the lead, but needed an element of luck, as Pool's Ian Noble had the break covered, only to lose his footing allowing the Shelley striker through, his finish giving Andy Doey in the Pool goal no chance.

The fast flowing football continued in the second half with Pool soon levelling the scores.

One of many strong runs down the right by Jack Farrimond saw his low, hard cross met by Jamie Algar at the far post. His sliced effort hit the crossbar, the rebound cleverly back heeled into the net by Harry Higgins.

Shelley emulated the move down their right, the resulting low shot well saved by Doey.

Pool then edged into the lead courtesy of a superb solo effort from Farrimond, cutting inside on the right before mesmerising several defenders and coolly slotting the ball past the Shelley keeper.

That goal alone was worth the three points, and had an effort soon after which struck the post gone in, they might well have secured them.

As it was, it was Shelley who found an equaliser. Their forward getting up well at the far post to meet a long cross from their right to head back across goal, his colleague on hand to complete the job from close ranger.

Both sides went for the winner in the closing minutes, however, a point apiece was probably a fair outcome.

Pool entertain clear leaders of the Premier Division, Beeston St Anthony's this weekend in a second round West Yorkshire League Cup tie.

Meanwhile, a prize-winning bingo and Play Your Cards Right night will be held on Friday, November 29, at Pool Sports & Social Club from 7.30pm.