Pontefract Collieries return to The Hunters Stadium on Saturday as they host Silsden AFC, with both sides entering the fixture at different ends of the table and with plenty on the line.
The Colls were last in action at home, earning a 1–1 draw against Matlock Town. It was another solid performance against one of the division’s stronger sides, but also one that left the feeling there may have been an opportunity to take more from the game.
With the season ticking on, this weekend offers another important chance to turn home performances into three points.
Recent Form
Pontefract currently sit eighth in the league, with an eight-point gap to the play-off places. Recent form has been mixed, returning two wins, three draws, and one defeat from their last six matches — enough to keep them competitive, but with room to push on.
Silsden, meanwhile, sit 16th in the table on 23 points, just three points clear of the relegation zone. Their recent form reflects the pressure they’re under, with only one win in their last six games, leaving them third bottom in the form guide.
Previous Meeting
The two sides have already met once this season, playing out a 2–2 draw. On that occasion, the Colls felt they had done enough to take all three points, only for Silsden to grab a dramatic late equaliser and share the spoils.
It was a frustrating outcome at the time, but one that underlined how fine the margins can be — and adds extra edge to Saturday’s return fixture.
For Pontefract, this feels like a good opportunity to build momentum at home and close the gap on the sides above. With points hard-earned in recent weeks, supporters will be hoping to see that consistency rewarded with a win.
Silsden will arrive determined to respond after recent results, knowing every point is important as they look to move away from the bottom end of the table.
Fixture: Pontefract Collieries vs Silsden AFC
Date: Saturday 20th December
Kick-off: 3:00pm
Venue: The Hunters Stadium
Match Preview written by Jack Skinner