2019 PL Challenge Cup Round 1 - Birkenshaw v Cleckheaton

Adjudicators: JK, AB, PL

Timing: 11:00 and 12:10

Prices: 1.20 and 1.40

The Adjudicators were looking forward to this clash between the two best teams in the 2018 PLS, and the dry, warm, Spring sunshine provided perfect conditions for a quality PLCC Round 1 local derby tie.

With their home advantage, Birkenshaw were out to avenge last season’s defeat at Cleckheaton, and started strongly, cleverly rounding up local supporters into a queue, to keep the Adjudicators waiting, and thereby whetting their already keen appetites.

The Pie was still pleasantly warm, with a firm, tasty crust, which one Adjudicator considered might be slightly too hard. The meat content was tasty, both well seasoned and well textured, and the surrounding, almost fully formed, jelly provided a welcome sight, and ensured a satisfying juiciness. The Adjudicators were impressed. And pleased that their expectations were being fulfilled, took half time drinks at the nearby Heathcliff Farm, sitting outside, in the sunshine.

Cleckheaton responded with a slightly warmer pie. The crust was tasty, certainly not as hard, and was variously compared as more flaky, or more crumbly. The meat content was again well seasoned, and tasty, but the jelly was more fluid, (one Adjudicator later found some on his shirt). Overall, the texture was deemed slightly inferior.

But both pies were good, and rather than rushing into decisions, the Adjudicators wisely chose to take the post-match drinks in The Wickham Arms, before coming to a final decision.

As the Adjudicators sipped their pints outdoors, in the continuing sunshine, it quickly became apparent that although both pies were of a high standard, on the day, the Birkenshaw had provided the more satisfying experience. It was a unanimous decision….though I have to add, that as far as this Adjudicator is concerned, some sadness is felt when a good Pie has to be announced as loser……and be eliminated so early in the competition.