Nice and three-sy for in-form Royston

Hertford III 0 Royston III 2

ROYSTON chalked up their third straight victory as Hertford were beaten for the second time this season.

Royston again enforced changes with left back John Sussex out with injury replaced by young Nick Hooten.

Gary Pinner in Royston's goal had an eventful match and pulled off three excellent last minute saves when the defence was breached.

This demonstrated what happens when the normal solid defensive line up has enforced changes.

Man-of-the-match Colin Bateman on the left wing had one of his more typical games, always being available for a pass by pulling out wide.

It took 10 minutes in the first half for Royston to open their campaign with a well-worked goal from a penalty corner.

Tim Yow stopped the set piece penalty corner from Smith and Paul Bloomfield fired in, the keeper saved and winger Colin Bateman stole in at the far post to flick past the stranded keeper.

Steve Welding as 12th man came on after 20 minutes switching with Bloomfield after he had had a certain goal taken by the poacher Bateman.

The high press continued and Royston went into half time 2-0 up but again there were reservations about the constant shouting rather than constructive talking.

The first 20 minutes continued as the first half had finished, and Royston should have finished off the game with winger Michael Welding again running around the defence.

But the shots were being aimed at the keeper and he kept a clean sheet for the second period.

This obviously gave Hertford belief that they could fight back and with 10 minutes remaining after a constant barrage and some sloppy clearances, the right attach fired in & caught the Royston defence in disarray.

Hertford continued to press but this left gaps and allowed Royston out, but again the keeper kept Hertford in the game.