Pontefract Collieries produced an outstanding away performance to end Grimsby Borough’s unbeaten start to the season, securing a deserved 2–0 victory under the lights on Wednesday evening.
The Colls set the tone from the first whistle, pressing high and showing real intent to bounce back from the weekend’s defeat to Ossett United. Their energy and purpose caused the hosts problems early on, and after several half chances, the breakthrough came in slightly fortuitous fashion.
A Jack Boyle corner from the left was whipped in with pace and curl, and the Grimsby goalkeeper misjudged the flight, seeing the ball fly straight into the far corner to give Ponte the lead.
The visitors looked comfortable and could have doubled their advantage when Joe Lumsden’s header drifted narrowly wide. At the other end, Ponte were composed defensively, with debutant goalkeeper Harry Christy and first time starter Alfie Perry impressing in a solid back line.
Pontefract began the second half just as brightly, continuing to press and create openings. Frankie Sinfield struck the post after rounding the keeper, and Lumsden saw a couple of efforts go close as The Colls pushed for a second.
Manager Jimmy Williams introduced Bailey Thompson and Nathan Modest, and the substitutions combined perfectly to seal the win. Modest showed brilliant determination to keep the ball in play before delivering an inch-perfect cross that Thompson finished clinically from close range.
It was a commanding and confident display from Pontefract, who controlled large spells and limited Grimsby to very few opportunities. Their only real scare came in added time when a shot was cleared off the line by captain Jack Greenhough.
At the final whistle, the players celebrated with the travelling supporters after an excellent all round performance that took all three points back to West Yorkshire.
Next up for The Colls is a home fixture (at Ossett) on Saturday afternoon against Blyth Spartans, where Jimmy Williams has challenged his side to back up this impressive showing.
Player of the Match: Alfie Perry – outstanding on his first start, composed in possession and defensively assured throughout.
