BUOYED by the return of two former players - Stu Baxter and Jamie Robinson - Acomb Hockey Club’s men’s first XI beat Harrogate III 3-2.

Acomb took the lead early in the first half with Robinson on target.

A second goal was added courtesy of a lovely sliding effort by Matt Dickenson.

Harrogate did not go down without a fight and pulled a goal back after Acomb were caught outnumbered at the back.

But Dickenson then struck for his second and what proved Acomb’s vital third goal.

As the derby neared its conclusion, both teams had a man yellow-carded while Harrogate trimmed the deficit.

However, the Tangerines held firm to gain the maximum reward from the division four north tussle.

Acomb II’s game was cancelled.