Dam Ballie Hat-Trick Books Rams a Place in the Semi Final

A Dan Baillie hat-trick for Beverley Rams edged them into the semi-final of the knock out cup but only after a titanic game with hosts Bridlington.

This game was originally due to be played on 21 November but the bad weather had until now put paid to any chance of the game taking place.

Both teams looked rusty after such a long break and the heavy pitch sapped the energy of the players. The ball swirled around in a vicious wind giving both defences trouble from any high balls.  Beverley opened the scoring when Ben Hearfield was sent through on goal his shot deceived the keeper as it bobbled over the line.  Beverley then defended well as Bridlington attacked.

A Beverley back four of Dale Dennett, Joe Hird, Will Harrison and Nick Moody had plenty to do to keep out a lively Bridlington.  Close to half time Bridlington levelled when a loose ball was well sent home past a stranded keeper.

In the second half both teams battled well, Beverley’s Jake Holmes and Tom Bruce had plenty of action in the midfield.  Bridlington had chances and an excellent ball into the box was tipped onto the cross bar by the Rams’ keeper Lewis Richardson.  Bridlington took the lead from an excellent headed goal from a corner kick and then defended well until near to the end when Dan Baillie popped up to rescue the game for Beverley.

The extra time was just as captivating as the main game as Baillie scored early for Beverley from a good ball by James Busby.  Bridlington were then strong and equalised close on the end of the first half of extra time.

In the second phase Beverley used the wing well and James Mooney made some good runs.  Baillie grabbed his hat-trick when he found himself in plenty of room.  Bridlington battled until the final whistle but Beverley held firm to edge into the next round.

Beverley Team from: Lewis Richardson, Will Harrison, Joe Hird, Tom Bruce, Dale Dennett, Jake Holmes, James Mooney, Ben Hearfield, James Weldon, James Busby, Nick Moody & Dan Baillie.

Bridlington Rangers Chiefs 3 Beverley Whitestar Rams 4