On Saturday afternoon, 3pm, we play our first NCEL Premier game of the season at home to Beverley Town, coincidently the same team that we met in the last game of last season, also at Tadcaster. That game ended with a 1-0 win for Beverley with a last minute goal. They were to go on to be beaten in the league play off finals by Hallam FC, so I would expect they would be there or thereabouts at the end of this campaign, hopefully battling with The Brewers for promotion. We must remember that last season was their first at this level, indeed they have only had 3 years in the NCEL since they moved up to the league from the Humber Premier league. They also won the NCEL League Cup last season, excellent opponents for The Brewers to face on the opening day.

In recent pre-season games, both teams had positive results. The Brewers beat Yarm & Eaglescliffe FC 8-2 at home whilst Beverley Town had a superb 4-0 win at North Ferriby who play in the Northern Premier League Division 1 East. They have had a good preseason against good opposition. In their final warm up game on Wednesday evening, they travelled to another Northern Premier League Division 1 East team, Grimsby Borough, and drew 3-3 after leading for most of the game.

Last season The Beevers ended with 68 points from their 38 games played. In comparison, The Brewers ended with 37 points. That said, the game between the two teams in April was competitive. A mouth watering start to our NCEL season.

So what does the artificial intelligence Grok (X) think will happen in the game. Just for fun.

Score Estimate: Considering Beverley’s stronger form and historical edge in recent matches, but factoring in Tadcaster’s home advantage and defensive grit, I estimate a 2-1 victory for Beverley Town. This accounts for Beverley’s ability to find goals, especially late in games, while Tadcaster might nick a goal at home but struggle to contain Beverley’s attack fully.

Next Saturday, August 2nd, we play at Thornaby, near Middlesbrough in the F.A. Cup. I am sure Ryan and the team would love to see a few Brewers fans there to cheer the team on. It's good to be back.

Keith H.

Note.

7pm, Wednesday, Tadcaster Albion Ladies play a preseason friendly at home to Wigginton Grasshoppers, entry is free.