One goal each, one goal disallowed for offside each, one cleared off the line each. Honours even. A very respectable performance from our lads against an opposition that has made an excellent, table topping start to the season.

Our first half performance was chalk and cheese compared to Tuesdays first 45. We were bright, lively, progressive. Ollie Butler was at the heart of everything good about our offensive play. My notes read: 6 minutes Ollies shot headed off the line, 25 minutes Ollie scores from a through pass from Kieran Turner, 30 minutes Ollie shoots just over. Ollie is on fire! The link between Ollie and Kieran has been productive already and promises to be the source of many goals this season.

We went in deservedly one up but the second half was something of a different proposition as Harpenden came out determined to keep their unseated league record intact. We survived until the 75 minute. Callum Brookes had cleared off the line but the pressure told, albeit somewhat fortuitously, as Harpendens left back delivered a cross which sailed over David Saunders head and floated into the top corner of the net.

So, lots of reasons to be cheerful about this display. It was particularly reassuring to see players coming into the side and proving their value, Adam Sawyer, Evans Lamboh and Harry Cornick. We will need a strong squad, not just a starting 11, if we are to achieve our goals.

Callum gave us a more progressive option, moving up the field from his left back position. David Saunders looked more assured in goal than in the last few games.

Disappointing that we may not have a match on Tuesday to build on this momentum but we should go in to the Vase game next Saturday feeling confident.

David Saunders, Harrison Cornick, Adam sawyer, Scott Bonner, George Carberry, Frankie Hercules, Cameron Brookes, Kieran Turner, Chris Blunden, Ollie Butler, Evans Lamboh

Playing subs Emmanuel Gbejuade, Tom Shaw, Chris Vardy.

Attendance 105.

Tweet