Garforth Town bounced back in style from last week’s defeat to Blyth Spartans with a convincing 4–2 victory over Bishop Auckland at the Bannister Prentice Stadium. A lightning start saw the Miners two goals up inside the opening six minutes, and despite a spirited fightback from the visitors, Garforth’s attacking quality proved decisive.

Early Blitz

The home side couldn’t have wished for a better start. Straight from kick-off, Rinor Ejupi made his presence felt, rising highest inside the box to nod the ball into the bottom left corner after just one minute. It was Ejupi’s second goal of the league campaign, and it set the tone for a pulsating evening.

Moments later, Garforth doubled their lead in spectacular fashion. Mutty Al-Jahadhmy slipped the ball to Harry Colville, who unleashed a curling left-footed effort from outside the area that flew past Gordon into the net. Colville, fresh from a Man of the Match display against Blyth, underlined his growing influence in the side.

Luke Aldrich and Matt Savage combined neatly in the 19th minute, with Savage’s low drive narrowly flashing wide, as Garforth continued to pile on the pressure.

Second-Half Control

The Miners struck again just six minutes after the restart. Ejupi saw his initial shot saved, but the striker reacted quickest to bury the rebound, claiming his third goal of the season and giving Garforth a commanding 3–0 lead.

Bishop Auckland offered resistance, and Michael Roberts pulled a goal back on 66 minutes with a fine strike that rattled in off the bar. The hosts, however, restored their cushion late on. With three minutes left of normal time, defender Jordan Emery rose highest to head home and make it 4–1, sparking jubilant scenes among the home support.

Auckland had the final say deep into stoppage time, as Paul Van-Zandvliet nodded in from a corner, but it was too little too late.

A Statement Win

The result means Garforth now have six different scorers in the league, with Ejupi joining Coupland, Connolly, Tweddle, Harrison, and Emery on the scoresheet so far this campaign. Manager Paul Marshall will be delighted not only with the three points but also with the way his side responded following their setback against Blyth.

With energy, creativity, and goals coming from across the pitch, Garforth showed they are capable of mixing resilience with flair. Attention now turns to their next outing, where they’ll look to build further momentum.

Full-Time: Garforth Town 4–2 Bishop Auckland

Goals: Ejupi (1’, 51’), Colville (6’), Emery (87’) | Roberts (66’), Van-Zandvliet (90+4’)