THACKLEY Under-19s gave their best performance of the season so far despite losing 4-2 at table-topping Ossett Albion in the Northern Alliance League.

They were undeservedly 2-0 down at half-time but fought back well in the second half. Jonny Holmes pulled a goal back from a great cross from Bailey Smithies and Kaylan Slinger smashed a 25-yarder into the top corner – a goal of the season contender.

Thackley continued to press for a winner, with Callum Brewster having a shot cleared off the line, but Albion twice broke away to seal the contest.

Joint-Thackley manager Mark Bywater said: "There was no shame in the scoreline but what was so pleasing was the effort and determination shown by every one of our team.

"The Ossett manager was full of praise for the youngsters of Thackley, stating that this was their toughest game of the season by far."

Next up for Thackley is Ossett Town at Dennyfield tonight (7.45).

The match between Bradford Park Avenue and Huddersfield YMCA was postponed because of a frozen pitch.