Broxbourne 2 XI (1) - (1) Royston M1 XI

The Crows came into the match looking to extend their 5-game unbeaten start with a tricky late away fixture at Broxbourne. The Badgers have proven to be a bit of a bogey side for Royston over recent years with games tending to end in score draws. This game would be no different.

After a bright opening salvo, Hall released Farmer to get a driven shot away just wide of the far upright from the right channel. This set the tone for the opening 25 minutes in which Royston could consider themselves the better of the two teams in what was proving to be a cagey affair. Royston's superiority was eventually rewarded, when a similar move to the first, saw Hall venturing into space in the right channel before unleashing a marauding Oliver 'Chad' Jones through the inside. Chad, ever clinical and with a wry smile on his face, took 2 deft touches before cleanly beating the keeper at the front stick.

Into the second half Royston emerged unchanged. Broxbourne however, opted to mix it up and bring their shiny headed number 10 more into the fold as a midfield anchor, looking to pack the midfield to make full use of their extra subs. This change in game plan proved pivotal as Royston quickly found themselves on the back foot and frequently overrun. With backs to the wall, the Crows looked to double down and defend their lead deep. Throughout the half, wave after wave of high pressing Broxbourne barrages were breaking on Royston rocks. As time wore on, cracks were beginning to appear. A string of fine saves from Royston Man of the Match and keeper-extraordinaire John 'Princess' Gourd, as well as both posts chipping in to deny the hosts, helped maintain Royston's lead until the final 5 minutes. A lapse in Royston concentration and a quick fire passing move from Broxbourne down the left channel unleashed bald Messi who, from a cute angle, was able to reverse sweep the ball delicately over the helpless Princess Peach.

On paper that marks a disappointing result for an in-form Royston side but nothing is won on paper and on the day, the Crows will be satisfied with a vital point and the continuation of their unbeaten start to the 20/21 campaign.

MOTM: John 'Princess' Gourd
DOTD: George 'I need to play well because my missus is watching' Eldrett