Penistone defeat local rivals Bridge

Penistone Church 2-0 Worsbrough Bridge

Goals from Andy Ring and Ryan Johnson steered newly-promoted Penistone Church to victory in the Mark Gorry Foundation charity match against neighbours Worsbrough Bridge.

There was little in the contest. Both teams were well-matched and both enjoyed a wide range of chances.

The key positive for Worsbrough was that it was a much-better showing than the horror show at Dodworth at the beginning of July. Josh Wright’s squad is now settled and the signs are good, especially with the signing of Danny Joynes.

Church, with most of the star summer captures in their side, came out of the blocks quickly, dominating the opening quarter. The strong period ended with genial Andy Ring heading home.

Worsbrough had their moments. Jack Mawson had opportunities, while Ben Grech-Brooksbank danced past several defenders before forcing a save out of Church goalkeeper Adam Rhodes.

The second half saw the much-heralded return of Brad Kerr in a Worsbrough Bridge. He looked sharp and perhaps should have scored when he attempted an acrobatic effort from a brilliant cross from the right – arguably the best cross of the match. Young Josh McKeegan was also denied at point-blank range from Rhodes.

Penistone themselves caused Worsbrough problems in the second half. Worsbrough’s back-line was breached several times by superb flighted balls from their young left-back.

Stellar summer signing Jordan Coduri put wide on one occasion, while former Glasshoughton Welfare striker Nathan Keightley went close as well.

Church sealed their victory late-on. Johnson got it after pouncing on a loose ball after returning Worsbrough goalkeeper Jared Oxley had saved Ryan Smith’s low effort.