Hertford Mixed Progress in National Cup

A very hungover mixed Hertford team faced Stevenage in the first round of the England Cup competition on Sunday in cold and windy conditions on home turf. Hertford captain Molly Pallett won the toss and keeper Jared Parry-Ford chose to take the early advantage and made Stevenage play into the sun for the first half.

Both teams battled hard in what was a fast and feisty game and chances were made at both ends keeping the goalkeepers on their toes. Despite being the better team and abusing each other in good spirits throughout, Hertford made hard work of what should have been a comfortable win.

The goal finally came with some excellent ball play from midfielder Sophie Rawlinson to Bev Deagositini who then smashed it into Sian Foster waiting by the goal. She scored a blinder past the keeper with a one touch deflection shot with 6 minutes to spare and Hertford were ecstatic to take the lead. Stevenage had a couple of counter attacks in the remaining time but Hertford remained unscathed and came away with the victory.

Special mention must be made to Sophie Rawlinson for some fantastic tackles against the mens opposition but also to Gavin Elliot for the most spectacular aerial seen yet at Hertford. Not only did his ball make no progress forwards, but it looped up and left over the side of the pitch to land gracefully in the building site a few metres away.

A highly entertaining yet deserved win taking Hertford through to the next stage.