The delights of Dewsbury

Swinton played their first match of the season away at Dewsbury this afternoon. At last the frost has relented and some watery sunshine found its way through high clouds to shine on the seats, making it feel almost warm after the recent cold.

The weather had wrecked the pitch, which was a mixture of sand and clogging mud, reducing the pace of the game and putting the premium on power over skill.

From the top of the stand there is a fantastic view at one end, stretching right across the moors to the Emley transmitter mast. On the hill behind the goals at the other end stands a fine water tower.

On the pitch, the view wasn't that great. Swinton lost 50-0. Oh well, the fresh air was nice after a large Yorkshire pub lunch. There are compensations for my sad obsession.