Pullman Directors Torn as Leeds Edge Harrogate in Historic FA Cup Clash

January 13, 2025

Elland Road was packed to capacity on Saturday, 11th January 2025, as Leeds United claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Harrogate Town in the FA Cup 3rd round. The 35,584-strong crowd—Harrogate Town’s largest-ever attendance in their 105-year history—witnessed a gripping contest between the Championship giants and their spirited League Two neighbours.

Adding an intriguing subplot to the evening, Pullman Instruments’ CEO Nathan Smith and Sales Director Mark Kendall found themselves caught between professional ties and personal allegiances.

Nathan and Mark, who steer the Harrogate-based precision calibration firm, are lifelong Leeds United fans—a fact that didn’t go unnoticed in the pre-match chatter. “It’s an odd feeling,” Nathan Smith admitted, “Harrogate represents our business and community, but Elland Road is where the heart is.” While Mark humorously added, “It’s like choosing between your favourite tools—both have their purpose, but one always edges it!”

The game itself was a classic cup tie, with Harrogate showcasing resilience and determination against their higher-league opponents. However, it was Leeds winger Largie Ramazzani who settled the match in the 59th minute, darting past defenders to head home a from superb Manor Soloman cross that had the home fans roaring. Harrogate’s valiant efforts to equalise in the closing minutes added drama but ultimately fell short.

While the evening’s action unfolded on the pitch, Pullman Instruments continues to shine off it, providing vital services such as UKAS-accredited calibration, temperature measurement tools, and industrial instrumentation, amongst much more!. Much like the precision needed to score the decisive FA Cup goal on Saturday, Pullman’s expertise ensures industries across the UK maintain accuracy and reliability in their operations.

Both Directors left the stadium with mixed emotions— happy by the Leeds victory yet proud of Harrogate Town’s historic night. “It’s been an unforgettable evening,” said Nathan. “And it’s a reminder that precision and performance, whether in football or instrumentation, always make the difference.”

Take advantage of calibration our services in Harrogate by giving us a call on 01423 720360, or click the button below, to discuss your needs now and in the future to ensure your equipment is as accurate as it can possibly be, while being maintained and repaired to manufacturer standards.

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