ATHERTON Collieries were defeated by 1-0 Hyde United in a closely fought contest at the Skuna Stadium.
A defensive mix-up in the second half saw Hyde’s Jack Dyche gifted the winning goal, in a game which saw few real chances created by either side.
The game was preceded by a minute’s applause following the recent passing of ex Colls player Brian Taylor.
Brian had numerous spells at the club in the 70’s and was a maverick centre forward with a real eye for goal.
He played for many teams in the Bolton area and throughout the North West. His family were in attendance and appreciated the tribute greatly.
Collieries started the stronger of the teams, Danny Lafferty heading narrowly wide following a corner and Marcus Cusani seeing a shot saved Joe Green.
Danny Taberner was on hand to deny the visitors before the break, reacting well to deny Tom Pratt at the near post, sending the teams into the break goalless.
In a low key second half, it was Hyde who got the breakthrough, a mix-up between Danny Taberner and Lafferty presented Jack Dyche with an empty net to head into.
The visitors could have increased their lead but for a stunning save from the Collieries keeper.
Despite the home side pushing hard for an equaliser, Cusani fired a over and Gareth Peet miscued his shot from out wide, it was ultimately Hyde’s day as they took the three points back to Tameside much to the joy of their enthusiastic, youthful travelling brethren.
Colls were left to rue the fact that they didn’t convert their first half domination into goals.
Admittedly, the Tigers enjoyed most of the possession in the second stanza but the teams virtually cancelled each other out of on a testing surface.
It had a 0-0 written all over it until Dyche’s fortune.
Special mention to Clive Smith who made his 100th appearance in black n white stripes. A tremendous footballer and servant to the club.
On Saturday, Colls visit Championship protagonists Matlock Town and next Wednesday play West Didsbury & Chorlton in the Semi Final of the Lancashire Challenge Trophy. The game is being played at the LFA HQ in Leyland, ko 7.30pm.
Pictures: David Featherstone.
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