Get in! Barlow Cup final first for Heyside

HEYSIDE’S class of 2015-16 made history in midweek as they reached their first Barlow Cup final.

Geoff Howard’s side beat Britannia Sports 2-0 to book their ticket for the showpiece occasion at Huddersfield’s Town’s John Smith’s Stadium next month.

A first-half goal by James Leonard put Heyside in front at Shelley FC’s ground, with Mark Hopwood adding a second late on. It has been an excellent few days for the club, who overcame Diggle 2-1 in the last 16 of the Huddersfield FA Challenge Cup.

Leonard went close to an opener for the hosts, but the score remained goalless at the break.

Heyside made Diggle pay for missed opportunities on the hour mark when Hopwood jinked past three defenders before curling a shot past the visiting goalkeeper.

Diggle responded and should have done better from close range, but Heyside stopper Jack Suttie thwarted the visitors with two neat saves.

With just under 20 minutes to play, the home side made it 2-0.

Leonard was bundled over in the box and Hopwood confidently despatched the resultant penalty.

Heyside captain Johnny Pauley missed a great chance, before Diggle were given a late lifeline.

The consolation goal came too late, however, as Heyside hung on to reach another quarter-final.

Heyside will now face West Riding side Golcar United at home on April 2.