Hempnall FC

St Andrews 0  Hempnall  1

 

Hempnall's visit to St Andrews saw them determined to reverse their fortunes of the previous week, frustrated by their loss at league leaders, Cromer.  Tactical play by both managers basically cancelled each other out, play alternated end to end.  Chrystall kept St Andrews busy at the back, a half chance opened up as a ball slipped through by Rafa put him one on one with the keeper, who did well to keep Stu from scoring.  Neither keeper was stretched and the deadlock was broken when a St Andrews' player handled in the area, conceding a penalty. Ryan Haynes made no mistake putting Hempnall ahead on the half hour.  Two minutes of extra time saw St Andews break and hit the bar.

 

The second half continued in the same vein as the first.  The sun low in the sky caused problems and Hempnall began to take control of the game, their work rate was high and confidence grew.  The return from injury of Bardesley and Mills gave Drakey a boost as he subbed Didwell and Chrystall, like for like.  The fresh legs added renewed vigour up front.  Bardesley was unlucky not to score after an excellent individual run, cutting inside the right back, just unable to curl round St Andrews' keeper.  JD came on for McFadden and immediately his pace affected the right wing.  His connections with Millsy, Player and Bardesley began to open up the game.  Player, Hunts and Haynes took control in the middle of the park, Haynes having two blistering shots from 25 yards, one leaving the bar vibrating!  A nail-biting few minutes for Hempnall as time ran well over into injury time and saw goal line clearances, ensuring three points and a clean sheet for Bunny.