Previous encounters between these two teams have always been close, but this time Slazenger ran out easy winners.
It was not clear what was to come later as previously unbeaten York applied early pressure in this North Division 2 East fixture. However, a combination of tight marking and some excellent saves from James Cowden kept the home side at bay. There were also early signs that the Horbury side were capable of catching York on the break. They took the lead from one such attack. James Swinden sprinted down the right and his pinpoint cross was met by Paul Wiper who expertly finished with a first-time shot. Slazenger soon doubled their advantage. This time James Swinden required no assistance as he finished off his own mazy dribble. Slazenger were now in complete control and it was no surprise that they added a third with a beautifully worked passing movement from back to front resulting in a goal for the impressive Mark Swinden.
There was no complacency from Slazenger at the start of the second half as they added a fourth when a crisp shot from James Swinden beat the hapless York keeper. However, the home side rallied, taking advantage of poor marking to score two open play goals in quick succession. There was then a key 10-minute period during which Slazenger defenders Ivan Wood and Will Buckley steadied the ship. York’s resolve was finally broken as Adrian Buckley cooly applied a finish after a goalmouth scramble. Finally, Mike Thornicroft got his reward for his hard work up front, converting a penalty stroke after he had been unceremoniously upended in the circle.
Slazenger look to retain their winning momentum in a home fixture against Marten Furness at 1.30 pm on Saturday.
