Hertford VI 0 - 2 Winchmore Hill II

Despite the result one of our best games this year against the unbeaten North London promotion probables.

We started disastrously, conceding from open play in the 2nd minute before the defence had settled down. WH stayed in control through the first half, but some determined defence, well supported by the hard working midfield, and a couple of critical saved from Clive kept us safe from further damage. Daryl, Ian and Ewan managed occasional forays towards their D on the break but poor passing and slow ball movement left the forwards relying on scraps. Before half time we did start to build some proper pressure, getting more confident in our passing, moving the ball across the pitch and getting forward in greater numbers; after the break we got all the components together and played some of our best hockey of the season – fast and accurate passing, a good mix of long and short balls, hard running off the ball, and controlling midfield for long spells. Sadly the only goal came at the wrong end from a short corner, and there wasn’t even a consolation goal for us to take home, though we did draw a couple of very good saves from their keeper and kept them sweating for the three points right to the end. Very hard to call man of the match, everyone impressed, but I will go for Ewan this week, with Graham White and Andy Benson right behind him.

We will need to be at least this good next week…