Pontefract Collieries welcome local rivals Ossett United to The Hunters Stadium this weekend, with the visitors making the short trip for what is always one of the most fiercely contested fixtures on the calendar. With league positions, recent form, and local pride all at stake, there is plenty riding on this West Yorkshire derby.
The Colls come into the match in strong form, having won their last three league fixtures in succession. That run has lifted Ponte up to sixth place in the table and with growing confidence around the club as the season moves through January. Momentum has been hard-earned, but recent performances have placed Jimmy Williams’ side in the play-off picture, making home fixtures like this one even more significant.
Ossett United arrive at The Hunters Stadium sitting 14th in the league, looking to bounce back after a 2-3 defeat midweek at home to Consett. Despite leading, the hosts conceded twice late on to fall. While the league table suggests a gap between the sides, derby matches have a habit of ignoring form and position, and Ossett will be well aware of the opportunity to disrupt Ponte’s progress.
Ponte’s recent home form has played a key role in their rise up the table, with The Hunters Stadium becoming an increasingly tough venue for visiting teams. Ossett, meanwhile, will be keen to climb away from the lower half and know that a positive result here could provide a timely boost at a crucial stage of the campaign.
There is also unfinished business from earlier in the season. The reverse fixture saw Ossett United claim a 2–0 victory, a result that still lingers and adds an extra edge to Saturday’s meeting. Ponte will be determined to put that right on home soil, while Ossett will aim to repeat the feat.
Kick-off is 3pm at The Hunters Stadium.
We’ll see you there.
Match Preview written by Jack Skinner