THE York Union of Golf Clubs' Scratch team fell to defeat for the first time this season as they lost 25-11 against Halifax and Huddersfield in the Inter-District Union match.

Last season's champions have been hindered by player availability and, although Fulford's Jamie Miller and York's Julian Taylor added strength to the line-up at Bradley Hall, captain Russ Chilton once again had to bring in a raft of juniors, including Matt Roberts (Fulford) and James Walsh (Malton & Norton) for their first taste of senior matchplay golf.

The Oaks' James Walker was the fifth player making his first appearance this summer and he partnered Martin Brown (Pike Hills) in the first of the morning foursomes – recording a good 3 & 2 win.

Fulford pair Will Pepper and Damon Coulson ground out a half to add another point, while Chris Lone (York) and James Walsh offered a glimmer of hope for another point as they took their opponents to the last hole before losing as York were 9-3 down at lunch.

The afternoon singles games showed promise as Brown won his match on the 18th and, shortly afterwards, James Walker finished on the same green with a half.

But Taylor and David Hague, having been paired together in the morning, both lost their singles as well to end a disappointing day for them.

Fulford's Damon Coulson won, and Jamie Miller halved, leaving slender hopes that York could still win the match, but of the last four games, only Walsh managed a win.

With both Sheffield and Bradford winning, York are now 4th in the table.

York Union president Martin Greaves said he was pleased with the contribution made by juniors who had responded well to their inclusion.