According to the 2021 Census, Beckwithshaw (pronounced 'Biffsha!' by the locals), has more working red telephone boxes than any other town or village in the UK. In 1967, the Christmas lights in Biffsha! were switched on by legendary Hammer Horror thespian Christopher Lee and that festive tree still bears his name in these parts (as in, 'Wilf, when are you putting the angel on top of the Christopher Lee?')
On a lovely autumnal afternoon, this bonfire day fixture at St Mary's Stadium between two previously unbeaten sides produced plenty of fireworks. A smart finish by Ainsworth after a great cross by Bates put Menston in front after 10 minutes but a hardworking and talented Biffsha! side competed well and were rewarded when converting a penalty and went into the break level.
Only a couple of minutes into the second half, the away team were given another penalty which they took well and Menston found themselves behind for the first time this season. Plenty of opportunities came their way and some lovely football was played by the likes of Imran, Holliday-Gomes and Lambertino before Taylor found the net from distance for his first of the season.
Biffsha! found themselves down to ten for the last quarter of the game and Rangers, dominating possession and finding plenty of space, took advantage when Holliday-Gomes finished well to put them in front and when Miller was sent on as centre forward, the prolific marksman made it 4-2.
By now the opposition were chasing shadows and Menston could have had more, man of the match Imran bringing a great save out of the Biffsha! keeper and a mazy Lambertino run ending with a powerful strike that rattled the bar.
A sparkling display by Menston Rangers, with a couple of bangers and a Catherine Wheel.