Nomads played at Ossett on their notorious sloping pitch, which was heavily grassed, on a very hot afternoon. We started with the probable starting defence but with possibly the youngest Nomads first team ever in front of them. The first half of this pre-season friendly match was fairly even. We were solid and well-organised in defence and we moved the ball around quickly but only really troubled the hosts on a couple of occasions. A Luke Holden shot from distance skimmed off the top of the cross-bar and then near the interval a powerful Chris Rowntree header rebounded from the bottom of the post. The defence were in complete control though and we were never threatened. It looked very good.
Wholesale changes at the interval led to us losing shape and Terry being called on for a couple of routine saves. But gradually we re-assumed control. Tigger put in Rainford who saw his shot brilliantly saved by Jamie Green in the Albion goal. But the keeper was left stranded by Rainford's clever chip over his head which gave us the lead just before the hour mark. We extended their lead in the 70th minute. The Albion goalkeeper raced out to challenge Rainford for a high punt downfield. The keeper won the footrace, but missed the ball, which Jamie easily rolled into the net. We made and missed a couple more before Ossett got late consolation. Brown rounded a couple of defenders and beat Terry to score a good solo goal. We took our foot off the attacking gas and coasted to the final whistle to claim the victory.
So the 2014 Yorkshire Weekend saw two victories, some great football, (the first half at Tadcaster being very good), and all five goals netted by Jamie Rainford. A happy bunch of Nomads will head home ready for the challenge ahead.
Match Photos