PR: North Ferriby vs Harrogate Railway

North Ferriby Fc are in playoff action when they face Harrogate Railway at the Dransfield stadium this weekend. The Villagers will be at home due to finishing second in the league. Chris Bolder’s side overcame Rossington 2-0 in the semi-final, in front of an impressive crowd of 901. An own goal and a goal from the in-form Josh Whiteley proved to be the difference. 

Harrogate finished fourth in the league and therefore had to travel to Brigg Town last week. An impressive 2-1 victory at the Lincolnshire-based side saw ‘The Rail’ progress into the final. The Villagers were victorious over Harrogate in both league games this season. In August, they won 6-0 and an impressive 3-1 win on the road secured the double. Harrogate boast a triple threat of goal. Marcus Day, Joseph Crosby, and Daniel Thirkell have all scored over 15 goals this season. Crosby scored both goals in Harrogate’s win over Brigg. When asked about what he expects from the visitors, Bolder said, “Harrogate are a well-organised side who have worked exceptionally hard on their team shape and how they want to play so it will be a real tactical battle”. 

The win over Rossington saw the return of club icon Danny Clarke. Clarke rejoined the club in the summer from Alfreton. Clarke suffered a season-ending injury at Barton in pre-season and his return to football was in doubt. Clarke came on as a second-half substitute.

Bolder was asked how preparations are going ahead of the game, “We performed really well without the ball on Saturday but we could be better in possession so we will work hard in training on a few things that Paul and myself want us to implement. Hopefully, we will get a great crowd to help cheers us on too”. 

The winner of the game will join league champions Hallam in the NCEL premier division next season. 

Admission for the game is £5 adults £3 children and concessions. Under 12s are free if accompanied by an adult. As this is a play-off game all must pay, including pass holders. 

Report kindly provided by North Ferriby