Tring Res v Harpenden Town Res - 27.01.07
The buzzword before kick off was 'Attitude' as this was a game that was targeted as a crucial game for the HTFC reserves bid for mid table security. Even before kick off the team was brimming with confidence and the 11 men (including 3 of Fozzies Fledglings) that took to the field, didn't disappoint. Management duo King and Foster, gave full debuts to keeper Guy Davidson, left back Will Oxley and centre forward Chris. Going with the preferred 4-4-2 formation the reserves were quickly up to match speed and retained possession of the ball with some pleasing Interchanges of passing. The forward partnership of King and Chris hassled the lethargic Tring defence and after 20 minutes were rewarded when Paddy Knock drove home a right foot drill hammer which Roy of the Rovers would have been proud.
Stout defending and midfield stalemate played out the rest of the first half until in stoppage time a Tring equaliser deflected past the hapless Davison. Half time deflation was not forthcoming and the mighty town again took the game to the opposition. Stevie G Jones weaved into the opposition pen area and lobbed up a delightful cross to the far post with Knock again arriving late to punch a Ruud Gullit type header into the gaping net.
Town continued to enjoy plenty of possession and although Tring huffed and puffed never really looked like creating equilibrium until In the 70th minute a Tring chance saw new keeper Gus pull off a tremendously athletic leap to keep the Athletic at bay. S Jones and Eddie coped with the aerial assault (no, that's not the washing powder Darren!!) admirably and even Foster got in on the action with a 30 yard pile driver which the keeper could only parry over the top, breaking his wrists in the process Town defended deeper as they sought out their first 3 points of 07 and thoroughly deserved their 3 points and sausage rolls in Mrs Miggins pie shop (Tring bar!). With further players back from injury, weekends away, shopping and suspension things are on the up.
