Royston M3 v Harpenden M4

The match benefitted from a later start which allowed the frost to thaw and the game to be played. Both sides started strongly, with commitment to the tackle high on the 'to do' list. The first half proceeded in a balanced fashion until an error at the back allowed the Harpenden Centre Forward to steal the ball and drill it under the goal keeper. Royston reacted with vigour, and a period of sustained pressure saw an equaliser appear after great movement of the ball down the right flank and persistence in the D allowed Roddi Liebenberg to flick the ball over the Harpenden GK after he had already made one good save. 1-1 at half time was a fair score line, and both sides will have felt there was a result to be obtained.
The second half had much in common with the first, and Harpenden had a few chances which they were unable to convert. Keith Markham made some important saves, and a couple of goal line clearances kept the scores level. Royston then took the lead through an excellent aerial ball down the line from Tim Cheeseright which three passes later was smacked in to the goal by Colin Bateman. Despite severe pressure from Harpenden, Royston's defence held firm and a win was obtained.
Harpenden are leading the league and have only lost 2 games all season - both times to Royston.