Langford upset high-flying Harpenden

The SSML Division One game kicked off on the worst playing surface this correspondent has seen for many seasons, a real throwback to the 1970s, wrties Ian Chessum.

The first few minutes consisted of a midfield scramble with both teams quickly losing possession. Langford had the first chance when Nathan Mallett shot high and wide. Harpenden settled to the playing surface quicker and after eight minutes their long ball game saw Jimmy Hill put in Harry Hunt to put them ahead.

Langford pulled themselves back into the game winning more possession although despite several chances, one of which hit a post, they were unable to score. The pitch played its part by causing Harpenden forward Jimmy Hill to mishit two chances when one on one with the Langford keeper and miss from inside the six yard box.

With Paul Donald coming on after the interval adding backbone and an all action approach in midfield, Langford looked a different team and straight away took the game to the opposition.

In the 49th minute this paid off when Jake McClean in the Harpenden goal dropped the ball at the feet of David Tembua, who rounded the keeper and threaded his shot between two defenders to give Langford a deserved equaliser.

Ten minutes later David Tembua had a run down the right flank and his cross found Stephen Brooks on the edge of the penalty area, his fierce shot giving McClean no chance to give the Reds the lead.

The game reverted back into a midfield scramble; both teams breaking and counter-attacking. Langford had the best of the play but were unable to add to their goal tally.

Langford’s next match is away to Winslow United in SSML Division One on Saturday.

Langford: Allie Jaward, Ryan Nicholl, Ross Scotney, Luke Nicholl, Dean Walton, Owen Beale, David Tembua, Stephen Brooks, John Vooght, Sean McMonagle, Nathan Mallett

Subs: Paul Donald (used), Santos Santiagio, David McGuinness