Berkhamsted FC fell to a 2-1 defeat to Poole Town FC today (29 November) at the Glencar Community Stadium, on a bright and sunny late autumn afternoon.

Overnight rain had fans worrying that there would be no game to attend this weekend, but once again the Berko ground staff’s hard work on the pitch paid off and our visitors were clear to set off from their Dorset home.

The early exchanges were tentative, with neither side landing a meaningful blow. The Comrades arguably had the better of the chances when a JJ Lacey cross somehow bypassed three waiting attackers to go safely wide. However, barely a minute later Poole took the lead with a well taken goal from midfielder, Ayo.

Berko got right back into it when Michael Harding broke through on goal, only to fire his shot past the post. And a well struck Kyle Brooks free kick was equally well saved by Dolphins’ stopper, Adam Parkes. Despite some good efforts, the Poole net remained untroubled and the Comrades went in behind after an entertaining opening 45 minutes.

Fans were hoping for a bright start to the second period, as we’ve seen many times this season. Alas a defensive lapse on 48 minutes saw Antonio Diaz take advantage to double the Poole lead.

Anyone who has seen Berko play this season knows that the boys in yellow never know when they’re beaten. Today was no different.

A change on 63 minutes saw Billie Busari and Brad Wadkins replace Adam Watkins and Charley Barker. Fresh legs added instant impetus with the creation of a gilt edged chance, which Ryan Blake headed narrowly over.

It was, however, the introduction of Sean Duodo that really shifted the gears for the Comrades. He found his first chance barely minutes after coming on, firing wide. Before pulling one back from a close range shot seven minutes before the end. Suddenly the hammer was down and it was all Berko until the finish, with numerous chances created, one of which was cleared off the line.

Sadly, this time the last minute celebrations were not to be. Poole Town FC just about got their noses over the finish line, and took the spoils back down the M3.

Remember, the boys are next in action on Saturday 6 December for the visit of Farnham. This is also a Raiders Day, at which parents and carers of kids arriving in Raiders kit will be entitled to half price entry.

Team:

Horlock, Barker (Wadkins 63), Hyde, Watkins (Busari 63), Rosner (Mitchell 76), Gurteen, Lacey (C ), Brooks, Harding, Andrews (Duodo 76), Blake

Subs unused: Kyei

Goals: Duodo (83)