hampton061205

Thursday 01st September 2005

Resilient Bromley earn point at league leaders

Tuesday 6th December 2005	Ryman Premier League	Colin Head reports from the Beveree
Hampton & Richmond Borough	0
Bromley	0

Bromley’s makeshift and patched up side came back from Middlesex with a well earned point against the league leaders thanks to a brilliant defensive display on a cold Tuesday night at The Beveree, writes Colin Head.

The Ravens squad was so decimated through injury and suspension that they only had two substitutes available. The Management team decided to line up in a 3-5-2 formation and it proved to be an inspired tactical move that at many times was effectively five at the back.

Hampton played a fast direct style and had Bromley pinned back from the kick off. Andy Walker made a good save from Dean Wells who latched on to a low cross and The Beavers went close again when Elliott Godfrey’s free kick fizzed wide.

The first half looked more like a 45 minute session of defence versus attack as The Ravens barely crossed the half way line. Mark Willy headed another effort off the line and Hampton also had a penalty shout turned down as the continuous pressure had Bromley pushed onto the edge of their own box.

Just before the break Bromley did get a small spell in the opposition half and had a coupe of corners that the home defence dealt with well.

The second half began in the same way, Hampton had lengthy spells of possession around Bromley’s penalty area, but The Ravens defence held out well and the table toppers couldn’t find a way through.

Bromley did get a few breaks from their defence duties, Kevin George had a shot sail over and Nic McDonnell also saw a shot miss the target.

Rob Paris missed two good chances for Hampton in their final spell of pressure, before with the game coming to an end Bromley’s man of the match Adam Locke shot just wide from the edge of the box.

In injury time The Beavers had a shout for handball in the penalty area, but Referee Mr Cairns was un-impressed and Bromley secured their precious point with a solid defensive performance by the whole team.

Hampton & Richmond Borough: Lovett, Harper, Morley, Elverson, Paris, Wells, Inns, Godfrey, Yaku, McIntosh, Matthews. Subs: Fernandes, Gardener, Boosey, Henry-Hayden, Abbey.

Bromley: Walker, Gardener, Henriques, Vines, Willy, Boateng, Drewett, Locke, Awuah, McDonnell, George. Subs: Marino, Stone.