Disappointment for the Men's 1's

Havering suffered their first defeat in over 17 months against Bedford on Saturday. It was an evenly balanced match for most of the 70 minutes which however was swung Bedford’s way half way through the second half. It was in fact Havering who started the better side, pressing up high and creating dangerous chances which however were not converted. Connor Poulain and Glen Noller had the 2 most clear cut chances while Harry Andrews also went close with a reverse shot.

Bedford started creating more opportunities of their own towards the central part of the first half but failed to dangerously penetrate the Havering defence. It was a rare moment of Havering inattention that allowed them to drive a free hit from just outside the 25 straight into the Dee for their forward to deflect from close range to go 1-0 up. Havering stayed composed and reacted strongly to going a goal down and to their disappointment had a strong penalty shout turned away. Both teams failed to convert a handful of short corners each before the half-time whistle.

Havering started the second half with determination and assurance and deservedly drew level within the first 5 minutes. Gaz Ingram picked the ball on the left side of the attacking quarter before hitting it precisely into the Dee for a double deflection: Paul Dover first and Connor Poulain with the killer one. Havering continued applying pressure till Connor Poulain received what appeared to be a very harsh yellow card. Bedford took control from this point onwards even though it was a defensive blunder that allowed the home team to take the lead with an easy tap in on the far post. Bedford’s third and final goal arrived a few minutes later following a short corner move.

Havering did try to react after this but uncharacteristically lost composure and all their efforts, including a couple of short corners, were easily dealt with by a Bedford team that at this point was playing with confidence.

Havering will be playing Dereham at home next hand will be hoping that they can return their fortunes to get back to winning ways.