Berkhamsted Vs 2 - 0 Hertford Vs

In humid and draining conditions, a close fought game featured two teams determined to spurn their scoring chances. It was no surprise that it was decided by a slightly streaky deflection through a crowd of bodies, and a late second as Hertford subbed off defenders to press for an equaliser. Apart from the inability to finish, it was a pretty good game all round with Hertford looking increasingly settled after a shakey first ten minutes (only 5 changes from last week), often passing the ball around with astonishing confidence and accuracy. We built well through midfield (spiced up with some crackling long balls from Andy and Matt), and kept tight shape in defence even if we were often outpaced. Peter Trendler (5s founder member from the class of 2011) guested as centre back and with Robs Bristow and Davies keeping the flanks under control we had probably our youngest back line ever.

Rian, Tor and Adam were probably our youngest front line as well, and with Chris Duncan back we moved forward fast and regularly troubled them in the first half down all the channels. Andy drew a good save from a short corner strike, Matt hit a screamer over the crossbar. With the short corner count heavily against us we were happy to turn round at 0 - 0 but were beginning to scent victory. Most of Berko's shots were going wide, John blocked their best effort on the post, Nick tidied up the rest.

Going behind early in the second half, we chased the game manfully, with most of the pressure going up the left as Berko tired and gave us space, but despite some classy build up and good ball retention, we couldn't find the final touch.

Need to work on a few areas - we tended to underhit passes, and could do more to offer easy options to players on the ball. Better in the second half, always encouraging when you listen to the half time talk!

Again hard to call a man of the match. This week it will be shared by Chris Shattock and Andy Benson for sheer hard work in midfield. Last game for Adam this week as he heads off to study law at York, we wish him (and Peter) all the best in their studies, fine ale, good company and of course, lots of hockey.

Geoff