Lytham1st XI 2 Leeds 4

IN a match that was always going to be competitive and physical Lytham St Annes gave themselves an uphill struggle by conceding an early goal.

However they replied shortly after when Dave Robbins struck the ball home from the top of the circle.

Twenty minutes into the game Lytham went down again from a penalty stroke.

Then another goal put them further behind only for the in-form Craig Nuttall to reduce the deficit just before half-time.

After early injuries to both Chris Kay and Duncan Shields meant a defensive re-organisation, LSA looked more organised with Tom Atkinson playing well to stop the Leeds mid-field domination.

With 10 minutes to go Lytham conceded a soft goal but when the opposition goalkeeper was sent off for a deliberate foul and at the same time conceding a penalty stroke LSA saw a glimpse of hope.

However, the Leeds coach came on as goalkeeper and dramatically saved Dave Robbins flick to the rapturous applause of their remaining players.

Despite disappointment over the defeat LSA must gain confidence and hope from their battling perfromance. Lytham 4ths 2 Morecambe 3rds 1 WITH the mens second and third XI matches being cancelled because of weather the fourth XI earned a well deserved three points to get the season rolling.

Lytham St Annes dominated the first half with Phil Collier-Baker scoring their first goal from a penalty corner and Matt Harwood creating several chances which went very close.

They continued to attack with Stuart Waby and Tim Killick dominant while Mark Lilley showed prominently with attack down the right wing.

Collier-Baker added his second just before half-time with another clean and clinical shot.

In the second half against the wind and slope LSA found the going harder but defended stronger with Brian Taylor and Mark Lilley outstanding.

Kevin Waby, the captain, got caught in possession in his own circle and despite valiant efforts by keeper Bob Barlow a goal was conceded.

LSA however, fought back well and Mike Gannon was very unlucky to have a powerful shot saved after Matt Harwood had released a telling through ball.