Pontefract Collieries fell to a 2–0 defeat away at Ossett United on a stormy afternoon in West Yorkshire, as the hosts claimed the derby bragging rights in brutal weather conditions.
With Storm Amy bringing relentless rain and swirling winds, the first half quickly turned into a battle of attrition. Neither side managed to find rhythm or control possession for long spells, with much of the play scrappy and contested in midfield.
Just as it looked like both teams would head into the break level, the hosts broke the deadlock in stoppage time. A pair of missed clearances saw the ball fall kindly for Jack Crook, who struck a stunning effort from 25 yards that flew into the top corner past a helpless Lloyd Allinson.
Ponte came out stronger after the interval and began to build momentum, keeping Ossett pinned in for large spells. Joe Lumsden went closest to an equaliser, seeing an effort crash against the post and bar, following a near post flick on. Despite Colls’ pressure, the hosts remained resilient at the back.
As the game entered the closing stages, Ponte were punished for mistake. Allinson’s attempted pass out from the back went straight to Rhys Thomas, who took advantage and calmly rolled home Ossett’s second to seal the points.
A frustrating afternoon for Jimmy Williams’ side, who were undone by key moments at either end of the pitch.
Attention now turns to Wednesday’s trip to Grimsby Borough, where the Colls will look to bounce back and return to winning ways.