Mark Simpson scored twice in Garforth’s 2-1 win at Bridlington
Mark Simpson scored twice as Garforth Town won 2-1 at Bridlington Town to ensure a fine start to the Toolstation NCEL Premier Division season.
The young striker struck in both halves to help Garforth back up their opening day victory over Rainworth with the win at Brid – one of the toughest nuts to crack in the league.
Simpson linked up with strike-partner Curtly Martin-Wyatt for the deadlock breaker on 16 minutes. Martin-Wyatt expertly held the ball up and crossed for Simpson, who applied the finish.
Joel Sutton spectacularly wasted the chance to equalise for Bridlington on the half-hour mark after blazing his penalty into the car park.
Bridlington levelled matters early in the second half as star signing Lewis Clarkson broke clear to score again for the Seasiders.
Tempers flared as the second half wore on and referee Andrew Dunne bore a lot of criticism.
Bridlington substitute Ombeni Ruhanduka went too far with comments about the official and he was sent off eight minutes after coming on after using foul and abusive language towards him.
More controversy followed for Garforth’s winner. The home side claimed offside, but the flag stayed down when Simpson rattled home the decisive goal after Jack McCarthy’s mis-hit shot.
Bridlington Town: Hitchcock, Knaggs, Coverdale, Allanson, Whittingham, Nicholls, Taylor, Fleming (captain), Clarkson, Sutton, Waudby. Subs: Brunton, Duka, Harman, Hogg, Reeson.
Garforth Town: Hunter, Hawksworth (captain), Robertson, Monfredi, Rogers, McCarthy, Simpson, Shelton, Martin-Wyatt, Mangham, Harris. Subs: Preece, Smith, Simpkins.
Referee: Andrew Dunne
Attendance: 163