Potters Bar 2nd XI v Royston 4th XI
Saturday 3rd October 2009

After a disappointing start to the season last week, hopes were high for a much needed Bar win against the visiting Royston 4s.

However Bar were fighting an uphill battle from early in the game. Despite a promising first five minutes the seconds found themselves behind to an early goal; Royston scoring from a short corner from their first real attacking move. Making a rare appearance as goalkeeper Dave Brandon could do little about the well hit and deflected shot direct from the short.

For much of the first half the winds billowed up the pitch at close to gale force and with each gust came a Royston attack. Despite some resolute defending – marshalled by John Yates and Nick Tilley - Bar could do little to stop two further goals leaving them trailing three nil at the break.

The half time team talk brought with it a change of formation and a return to a more familiar three at the back. Coupled with the wind now in their favour Bar looked altogether a more competitive side. For much of the second half the 2s were the dominant side forcing the combative Royston to fight a rear guard action. Tony Sayers worked relentlessly to forge an opening through the middle, whilst Johnny Hobbs and Simeon Nichols (making an impressive debut for PBHC which he very nearly marked with a goal) provided some great attacking play on the wings.

However the next goal came against the run of play. With Bar camped in the Royston half the ball broke through and Royston took the score to 4-0 on the counter attack.

There was a great deal to take heart from the remainder of the second half which brought a well deserved first goal of the season – scored by Andy Latham who worked tirelessly to create an opening. A late goal from another short to Royston should not detract from the fact that by playing as a strong unit in the second half Bar enjoyed the lion's share of possession and territorial advantage. As a result the seconds should draw a great deal of confidence for next week's trip to Broxbourne.

by Richard Hughes