2020 PL Challenge Cup Round 1 - Grassington v Otley

Adjudicators: JK, AB, PL

Timing: 11:00 and 12:20

Prices: 1.45 and 1.50

As the Wuhan Virus continues to spread, causing increasing numbers of sporting events to be postponed or even cancelled, the opening tie of the 2020 PLCC was in doubt, until the last minute. However, having not tested positive, the Adjudicators felt able to go ahead, and allow the 2020 PLCC to get underway.

This was Grassington’s first appearance in any official PL competition, and they opened with a fresh but no longer warm, reasonably sized pie. The pastry was firm and crispy, almost crunchy, without being too hard. The meat content was substantial and of the coarser texture preferred by some, not overly seasoned, with a satisfying jelly filling any gaps. Overall, it was deemed a solid performance, but the Adjudicators were left wondering how much better it might have been, if it was still warm.

Half-time drinks were taken in the Fountaine Inn at Linton, a very picturesque Dales Village, which interestingly has three bridges of very varying sizes, and a ford, by which to cross the Linton Beck. Two of the Adjudicators tried the Hetton Dark Horse Pale Ale, which proved a very pleasant and refreshing brew. The senior Adjudicator took full advantage of the open fire in the cosy snug, blocking off the heat from all but himself.

Otley, last seasons beaten finalists in a very controversial match, (which still causes some rancour in PL circles), produced a perfectly timed response, with a still nicely warm Pie…not too hot, but still warm enough to bring out the full flavours of the meat. The surrounding jelly, though solidifying, was still liquid enough to give a very satisfying juiciness to the meat. It was noted that, perhaps because of the freshness and juiciness of the contents, the crust was not as solid as might have been expected, causing some difficulty in holding the pie together……particularly in the latter stages of adjudication. Nevertheless, despite these shortcomings, the Adjudicators had no hesitation in unanimously awarding the tie to Otley. No disgrace to Grassington…..they were beaten by a canny and experienced team…..and this Adjudicator will be making a point of reassessing the Grassington product in the future…..but earlier in the day.

Post match drinks were taken in the White Swan, the only pub known to this Adjudicator which switches its name, according to the seasons. Currently the Swan is White, as is not uncommon amongst animals who change the colour of their coat during the winter………however, come the full spring……it will once again become the Black Swan, which is how this Adjudicator remembered it from previous visits to Otley.

And finally, I must report very positively on steps being taken by the Otley Tourist Board to assist visitors in finding pubs to drink in, as quickly as possible. As the Adjudicators left the Swan, scratching their heads and wondering on the quickest way back to the car park, two of Otley’s Finest, on a smoking break by the entrance, immediately spotted their hesitation, and gave directions to the nearest next pub, which happened to be the Manor House. On this occasion the Adjudicators were unable to take advantage of these new measures………but do appreciate the steps being taken by the OTB, and the enthusiasm of its employees.

Grassington	Otley