Cleethorpes Town vs Harrogate Town

A goalless first half saw both sides struggle to create clear-cut chances, with pre-season fitness levels and wholesale changes keeping the game tight. The deadlock was broken in the 60th minute when McCoulsky found the net for Harrogate, finishing what the club described on Facebook as "the opener" in a post that confirmed "we pick up our second win of pre-season."

Harrogate managed the game effectively after taking the lead, keeping Cleethorpes at bay to secure the clean sheet.

McCoulsky's 60th-minute goal was the only moment that separated the sides. His finish proved decisive as Harrogate held firm defensively for the remaining half-hour to ensure the 1-0 scoreline held.

Shawn McCoulsky (Harrogate Town) — Scored the only goal of the game, continuing his pre-season form with a well-taken finish in the 60th minute.

Harrogate Town defence — Managed a clean sheet away from home, restricting Cleethorpes to few clear opportunities.

Player of the match: Shawn McCoulsky (Harrogate Town)

A single goal separated the sides in a contest that followed the typical pre-season pattern: a tight first half, a second-half breakthrough, and controlled game management thereafter. The 0-0 half-time scoreline reflected two sides still building match sharpness, while McCoulsky's second-half intervention was the one moment of quality that decided the game.

This was Harrogate Town's second pre-season victory of the summer as they prepare for the 2026/27 EFL League Two campaign. For Cleethorpes Town, the match offered valuable minutes against higher-level opposition as they build towards their own season. Harrogate's ability to keep a clean sheet will be a particular positive for manager Simon Weaver's side.

A professional pre-season away win for Harrogate Town. McCoulsky's goal decided a tight contest, and the clean sheet will please the coaching staff. Cleethorpes can take positives from competing with a League Two side for long periods.