Away Vs Codicote

The Blue Boys played Gosling Stadium other tenants Codicote FC on Saturday afternoon in this South Midland league clash. Having nearly a full squad to choose from Ash Purser made changes from the side which won last week at Southall under his rotation policy.

Returning in goal was Allan Buck, Joel Williams in the centre of defense and Gary Sippetts leading the attack. Hatfield had the better of the opening exchanges, although both sides failed to convert chances. Codicote where fortunate not to concede a penalty when Gary Sippetts was brought down by their keeper, the officials got this completely wrong. This decision to award a goal kick was a travesty to the game of football and kept the score 0-0.This was the only talking point of the rather dull first half.

The second half started in much the same fashion with both sides not being clinical enough in front of goal. Fortunately for the supporters Hatfield took the lead on 54 minutes when Gary Sippetts played a through ball for Arron Lewis to score. With a 1-0 lead Hatfield Town made their first substitution on 67 minutes when Ben Edwards was replaced by Gary Warn. The Blue Boys increased their lead on 74 minutes from a measured pass from Steven Harper allowing Arron Lewis to complete an excellent piece of play, by beating the advancing Codicote keeper. With the score 2-0 to Hatfield Town now had complete control of the game. The dismissal of Codicote’s Ricky Bridge on 84 minutes for violent conduct reduced the home side to ten men. Hatfield Town made their second substitution on 86 minutes when Cristiano Neto replacing Ian Hurst. Well into time added on Hatfield Town’s final substitution came when Vincent James was replaced by Kieren Griffen. In the end a fine performance by The Blue Boys who have now gone 13 league games unbeaten.

Man of the match: Arron Lewis