United came through their West Riding County Cup first round against a talented Morley Town outfit.

United didn’t waste time to strike the first blow. Some quick thinking from Liam Blades released Strickland to slide the ball beyond the Morley keeper.

United doubled their lead shortly after, another high quality set piece delivery from Liam Blades was this time glanced into the net for an own goal.

Despite their strong start United found themselves inviting pressure from an energetic home side.

Despite two initial outstanding reaction saves from keeper Will Smith to keep Morley at bay, eventually the pressure told, as a Morley free kick was glanced into the top corner.

United reacted well and managed to restore their two goal lead moments later. Liam Blades completing a hat-trick of assists as his delivery was headed home by Aaron Hollindrake.

The second half started with Morley controlling the game, pressing Settle high up the pitch in an attempt to get back into the match.

Despite weathering an early assault on from the home side the game was level in the blink of an eye. Firstly the Morley captain converting a penalty kick, before the game was levelled with a deft finish beyond the in form Smith.

The game was delicately posed and United reacted with a tweak in shape in attempt to regain a foothold in the game.

This tactical change immediately gave United rewards. Some selfless work from striker John Beckwith who lifted the ball over the keeper to find Strickland on hand to restore United’s lead.

United doubled their lead moments later through the impressive Stapleton. This time Bullock delivering a quality cross for Stapleton to attack and head into the net.

With moments remaining Morley grabbed another goal to leave United with a slender one goal lead heading into the closing stages.

The game threatened to boil over following tireless work from substitute Gowland. The full back producing two strong challenges, ultimately leading to John Beckwith racing clear before being brought down for a United penalty.

Strickland took responsibility from the penalty spot to send the Morley keeper the wrong way while completing his hat-trick and sealing victory for United.

United: Smith; Blades (Gowland 80’); Woodrow; Phillip; Bullock; Marshall; W Beckwith (C) (Stapleton 60’); Bathers; Hollindrake; J Beckwith; Strickland.

Goals:
Strickland 6’, 72’, 90’ sponsored by W D HomeTech
Hollindrake 41’ sponsored by DME Dan Mellor Electrical
Stapleton 77’ available to sponsor!

MOTM:
Will Smith sponsored by Paul Ambrose