Hetford VI 1 - 2 Blueharts VII

First match of the new league season saw Blueharts, relegated the previous season, bring a squad with nine U14s. Preparation by Hertford was key with pre match discussion focussing on the likely pace and skill of the opposition with Hertford’s more senior defence set to contest this with solid marking and tackling combined with good thought processes gleaned from their seasoned matchplay.

And so it proved with Blueharts having all the attacking play in the first 15 minutes with the Hertford defensive line and midfield disciplined and resolute denying Blueharts of scoring opportunities. Andy Smith was again solid in goal showing some excellent ball kicking skills whilst two chances when the Hertford defence were beaten saw the shots go wide of the goal.

Having survived the initial onslaught Hertford now began to push Blueharts back. Jon Durbin created space from right midfield and Dave Harding established a solid platform back of the diamond allowing Hertford to build their play. Adams Locker and Sutherland and Tom Davies were now combining well too with some good tackling to win the ball and excellent passing around the Blueharts midfielders. This combined with Ian Rawlinson’s tireless and pacey running and Hertford were now pressing towards the Blueharts’ goal creating an excellent opportunity of their own only to see Dave Harding’s shot go just wide of the post.

As the 25 minute mark approached, regrettably Hertford lost concentration and shape at the back conceding two goals in a messy five minutes and thus entered the half time break behind.

The second half was a much more even affair and as the stamina of Blueharts young squad diminished, Hertford continued to play some well controlled hockey with Adam S and Tom working hard in midfield creating opportunities for Hertford to attack the Blueharts goal and midway through the half reward came with Aodhan Green making no mistake when he found himself in from to goal with the ball at his stick.

The last quarter of the game became more of an end to end affair as both team tired. Blueharts showed great determination to protect their narrow advantage and although Hertford continued to press into Blueharts 23m area they were not able to get the ball past the young keeper in the Blueharts goal. The game thus finished with Hertford 1-2 down, however, if the organisation and work rate from the entire team continues through the season, Hertford 6 should enjoy an fine season. A final mention for MoM Adam Sutherland on his return from Uni.