Mexborough & Swinton Times – Friday 27 December 1878

Mexborough White Rose  3  Denaby  1

The return match between these clubs was played at Mexborough on Saturday last, the Mexbore captain winning the toss elected to play downhill, with a slight wind in his favour. Good play was rendered somewhat difficult owing to the slippery condition of the field. The ball was set in motion by the visitors who dropped it well in the Mexborough quarters ; it was soon evident that Mexboro’ was to good for them, as Denaby was wanting in cross play. which is half the battle in footballing. Scrimmagers was prevalent throughout the the game.

The first goal was secured Mexboro by Athron, who kicked the ball through, after which Denaby played more on the defensive, which, somewhat strengthened their fort. but only for and a time as a second goal was kicked for Mexboro’ by Longden, in a scrimage near the goal caused by F. Lewis, after an excellent run with the ball dropping  it in front of the opponents goal.

Half-time now being called, ends was changed, Denaby now playing with the wind, but apparently without any material advantage as the ball was continually in the visitors territories. but with a good lunge the ball was propelled in the Mexboro’ quarters, when H. Cotton who rendered some very good service for Denaby ran it down and finally landed it through the goal, bringing the score to two goals to one . After some surpassing play on the part of Sayers and Sykes, the ball was again put through the goal by the latter for Mexboro’.

No more scoring being made, Mexboro thus won with three goals to one.

The following played well for Mexboro’ : — W. Sayers. S. Wilson. backs; R. Botwood, half-back, and S. Sykes, forward.