Royston M3s v Harpenden 3s

Royston M3s had an energetic encounter away at Harpenden M3s on 5th October 2019.

Royston's first half contained some very pleasing hockey. Good ball control and swift, short passing meant Royston had the better of the half and entered half time 2 goals to the good courtesy of Matthew Bailey (both goals) putting good pressure on the Harpenden GK.

The second half saw a very capable and experienced Harpenden side alter their formation to chase the game. Royston failed to keep the ball whilst under pressure, and excellent defending was required to stay in the game. Roddi Liebenberg made a superb clearance as post man defending one of many short corners, and Keith Markham had another good game in goal, including making a crucial touch on to a post when defending a penalty flick. Harpenden scored with 8 minutes to go, leading to an anxious last few minutes, but the Royston defence held firm - taking a few knocks in the process from some robust attacking - and heads never dropped. The 2-1 scoreline reflected a good win.