Brighouse 4 Thackley 2

The big Premier Division derby went the way of the home side – even though they are not used to playing at home.

Brighouse got off to an electric start, racing ino a 2-0 lead within 13 minutes.

However, the Dennyboys were never out of the game.

Ryan Hall broke the deadlock in the ninth minute and Tom Matthews doubled their lead minutes later. But the Dennyboys pegged one back through James Firth just before half-time.

Town restored their two-goal lead three minutes into the second half when Matthews netted his second of the afternoon and Sam Hewitt added a fourth within minutes.

Thackley scored the goal of the game 18 minutes from time when Matt Morgan netted a screamer but they could not complete the comeback.

Brighouse spokesman Ray McLaugh-lin said: “It was a good game and both sides played well, despite the poor conditions.

“It seemed weird playing at home. We have had our last three home games postponed so haven’t played here since the FA Vase replay in early December.

“The pitch was heavy again, and energy sapping, but it was playable and both sets of players passed the ball around well.

“We had two early chances and took them and that was the only difference really.

“It was not a comfortable win because we never broke their spirit, not even at 4-1.

“They were really up for the game and it was close. Morgan’s goal was a cracker as well, 25 yards right into the top corner.

“I think both sides came out of it with a lot of credit and the crowd, which was a big one, were entertained. It was a great derby.”