Toolstation NCEL Division One
Penistone Church 1-0 AFC Emley
Former Nostell striker Dale Kerry was Penistone’s hero
Penistone striker Dale Kelly’s first half goal consigned promotion favourites AFC Emley to defeat in their opening league game.
Incredibly, Emley, who found the net in almost every game last season, created few chances.
Despite not playing on Saturday, Emley looked tired. Penistone were quicker out of the blocks and there had been several warnings prior to Kelly’s goal.
Emley’s defence failed to track the run from Kelly and once as Ash Ellis played the through ball, the striker was away. Gary Stevens raced out, but Kelly had enough time to pick his spot.
Emley created little in response. Penistone sat back and soaked up all of Emley’s possession, helping them secure a rare victory over Emley.
What They Said
Penistone Church manager Ian Richards
AFC Emley manager Darren Hepworth
The Teams
Penistone Church: Rhodes, Jones (L Johnson 83), Young, Ellis, Cadzow, Whitehead, Howes (captain), R Johnson, Kelly (Whittington 74), Dickinson, Joynes (Kenworthy 74).
AFC Emley: Stevens, Carney, Schofield, Graham, Wilson, Brennan, Joseph, Coduri, Flynn (Townend 72), Ryan, R Jerome (Noteman 80). Subs unused: Slack, S Jerome. Jordan.
Who Was In Charge
Jamie Waters (8/10)
This time last year, Waters made the headlines for sending two Penistone players off in the space of 30 seconds in Church’s 2-0 defeat at the Welfare Ground. It wasn’t quite as eventful this year.
How Many Were There
187