Its around this time of year that the weather tends to separate the teams in football; those who can battle on through the adverse conditions and saturated pitches proceed where others get bogged down, and, despite a very heavy pitch today Albion showed their class with a really solid team performance. Stanningley faced Garforth Rangers who were promoted with them in third place last season and who inflicted a narrow defeat on them at Garforth last year, so the red and blacks were in determined mood. Right from the kick off Albion took the game to Garforth who held firm until 15 minutes into the half when Hardaker – switched today to main striker, got his season of the mark with a bustling run and confident finish. Albion were busy in midfield and Garforth contributed to a enthralling contest and Mulligan was tested on a number of occasion but proved up to the task on all of them. Albion went further ahead when top scorer – Barker Ross lost his marker and finished coolly. Stanningley were worth their half time lead, but wanted more and they used the ball creatively on the muddy field, finding openings in the Ranger’s defence who looked stretched at times. Barker Ross completed his brace, followed by Cullen who shot through a crowded six yard box. Albion were now dominant and played some very fluid football, switching attacks from left to right, with man of the match Laird prominent in everything they did. Cousins, Jones and McManus slotted in well and made important challenges to strengthen their positions in the squad, which is now nicely competitive, especially with absent players coming back into contention. Stanningley weren't done yet though and Captain, Smith scrambled home in the six yard box, followed by a scrappy goal from Cousins and the red and blacks completed a good afternoon’s work. With difficult league games and a tricky cup tie away at Otley on the horizon, Albion know they have to maintain their high standard of football as they head towards the winter break, they have trained exceptionally hard this term and the hard work is starting to show in their performances and overall team play. They now sit in a healthy second place and keep the heat on leaders Wakefield who hold a slender three point advantage. Stanningley Albion are always looking for talented footballers; see our website at www.pitchero.com/clubs/stanningleyalbionjfc for information.