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Match Reports Men's 1st Team 2007–08 12/04/2008 In the last game of an eventful season Harlow beat East London 3-1 to secure a satisfying 3rd place. Harlow started the game well with Craig Cholerton putting in an energetic performance –supporting Steve White up front in the absence of Chris Shearman-Slack. It was Cholerton who opened the scoring for the home team when he latched onto a through ball from Joe Symmonds to fire past the helpless keeper. Harlow continued to press and Hayward and Chandler once again attacked well down both flanks. During the early encounters East London did not pose much of an attacking threat but any attacks were dealt with by Tovell and Plumridge in the heart of the defence. Harlow doubled the lead midway through the first period when James Smith controlled a rebounded Steve White Shot to calmly feed Luke Krzoska who fired home. At 2-0 up at half time Harlow never looked like losing the match. The second period turned into a scrappy affair with both teams sharing possession but no real domination. It was always Harlow that looked more likely to score. During the half both teams were at times reduced to 10 men through indiscipline. Harlow gradually gained the upper hand in the second period and forced the East London keeper into a number of saves. Skipper Steve White put the result beyond doubt when he raced past the defence, rounded the keeper and slotted home into the unguarded net. East London scored a consolation in the final minutes but never did enough to threaten the outcome. The win was made all the sweeter due to Colchester losing which allowed Harlow to clinch third spot. Overall the season has been very successful with the team performing better than expected – which is reflected in the final league standings. Team: Norris, Plumridge, Prodger, Torvel, Packham, Chandler, Smith , Symmonds, Krzoska, Hayward, Cholerton, White (c). 05/04/2008 Severe traffic congestion on the M11 caused the start of Harlow's penultimate game to be delayed by 30 minutes. However this caused Colchester more problems than Harlow as, even after the delay, only 10 players had managed to get through the traffic. Harlow took full advantage of this situation and raced into a 3-0 lead. James Smith opened the scoring in the early stages after good approach work by Justin Hayward and Steve White. Shortly after the advantage was doubled when Luke Krzoska deftly deflected a Chris Shearman-Slack cross into the net. Having scored the second Harlow didn't ease up and skipper White made it 3 when he dispossessed a Colchester defender, fought his way past another to fire home from the top of the D. Joe Symmonds and James Smith were in fine form in midfield, which allowed Harlow to attack at will. In particular Hayward on the left flank was always a dangerous option. It was only some fine keeping by the Colchester stopper that denied Harlow further goals. Gradually Colchester fought back into the game and keeper Rich Norris had to pull off some saves of his own. Colchester managed to get one back shortly before the end of the first period. The 11th Colchester player had arrived for the second period, which meant the game was a far more evenly fought contest. Both teams enjoyed possession and caused problems for each other's defence. Colchester managed to force a number of penalty corners, which were defended well by the Harlow team whilst at the other end Harlow looked dangerous from some free flowing attacks. The Colchester keeper made more fine saves in the second half to ensure Harlow didn't put the game to bed. With about 5 minutes left Colchester grabbed a second and then pushed for the equaliser but the Harlow defence marshalled by Jones and Prodger held on for the victory. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvel, Packham, Hayward, Smith , Symmonds, Krzoska, Cholerton Shearman-Slack, Krzoska, White (c). 29/03/2008 Harlow travelled to Witham on Saturday in buoyant mood despite a heavy defeat to Saffron Walden before the Easter break. Encounters between the two teams are usually hard fought affairs with Witham's lack of skill and ability being compensated for by their physical presence. This encounter was to be no different, but Harlow finally managed to beat Witham in the way that the relative merits of the two teams warrants. Harlow didn't start the game too well and Witham enjoyed the majority of possession in the first 10 minutes. However Steve Jones at sweeper was in fine form and repelled any attacks from open play. Despite his efforts, ably assisted by Mike Prodger, Fred Packham and Jordan Tovell, Witham took an early lead with a fiercely struck penalty corner. This spurred Harlow into action with Rob Chandler, once again, a fine attacking option down the right flank. It was Chandler who equalised, latching onto a loose ball in the D to fire home a reverse stick strike. Harlow dominated the remainder of the first period with the dangerous Chris Shearman-Slack causing the defence problems with his direct running. It was only some last ditch defending by the home team and a disallowed goal (lifted ball) that ensured Witham ended the half on equal terms. The only disappointing moment for Harlow was when Jordan Tovell had to leave the pitch with a shoulder injury. However Joe Symmonds slotted into the defence with sub Luke Krzoska coming on to help James Smith dominate midfield. The second half started on even terms with both teams enjoying possession. As the second period continued Harlow's superior ability showed. Rob Chandler gave Harlow the lead with his second of the game; superbly controlling a Shearman-Slack cross before calmly slotting into the bottom corner. Witham never looked like getting back into the game but Harlow made the points save when James Smith hit home a penalty corner. Skipper Steve White scored his ‘compulsory' goal in the dying moments with a reverse stick strike into the roof of the net. The result cements Harlow's position in the top half of the table and with two games remaining 3rd spot still remains a possibility. Although they would have to beat visitors Colchester on Saturday (1pm push back at Passmores school) and then rely on Colchester slipping up in the final games on 12th April. Team: Norris, Smith, Prodger, Torvel, Packham, Chandler, Smith , Symmonds, Krzoska, Cholerton Shearman-Slack, White (c). 08/03/2008 With Saffron Walden's 1st team being relegated from their division (3 above Harlow's) the prior week and their 2nds still chasing promotion, Harlow travelled to Saffron Walden knowing that it was in all likelihood a strengthened team that they would be facing. This turned out to be the case with Harlow suffering a heavy 7-1 defeat against a team in which the previous fixtures in the last 3 seasons have always been a close fought encounter. Saffron Walden took the game to Harlow from the 1st whistle, pilling on the pressure with some extremely skilful players in midfield and up-front. Within 15 minutes Harlow found themselves 3-0 down after some impressive reverse stick shooting – that would not have been out of place in division 1! Harlow managed to get some possession with Craig Cholerton pushing forward, however it was always Saffron Walden in control of the game – adding a further 2 strikes before the break. Harlow scored a consolation before half time as Skipper Steve White fired in from a penalty corner. Although Harlow performed better in the second half the day was made worse as skipper White limped off with a hamstring injury only moments into the second period. The reshuffled team managed to stem the flow of Saffron Walden chances and keeper Richard Norris made some fine saves to keep the final score down to 7-1. Cholerton, Rob Chandler and Joe Symmonds created some half chances but Harlow were not able to add another consolation. So once again, as in all previous seasons, Harlow played against a team from a lower level within their own club whose performances miraculously improve as promotion / relegation issues become closer. Team: Norris, Prodger, Torvel, Packham, Chandler, Smith , Symmonds, Krzoska, Cholerton, Hayward, Plumridge, White (c). 01/03/2008 Rich Norris and Rob Chandler both but in superb displays against a struggling Romford side to ensure that Harlow took all 3 points. A satisfying team performance limited the Romford attack throughout the game but Harlow Keeper Norris kept his concentration well and produced a couple of fine saves to ensure that the match remained comfortable for Harlow at all times. However it was the performance of Rob Chandler at the other end that won the game for the Passmore's based team. Harlow started much the stronger team in what looked to be a tough match with Romford battling for survival in the league. James Smith combined well with Luke Krzoska in central midfield which was the platform on which Rob Chandler excelled down the right flank. In the first 5 minutes Chandler broke away to fire in a powerful cross for Smith to deflect past the helpless keeper. Only moments later Chandler added to the scoreline with a fine solely effort – finishing with a reverse stick strike from the top of the D. Romford started to gain a foothold in the game but fine defensive work in particular from Fred Packham and Joe Symmonds prevented any real chances for the visiting team. Harlow continued to look dangerous on the counter attack with Chris Shearman-Slack finding space and Chandler always looking dangerous. The scoreline was added to when once again Chandler was set clear. This time the keeper made a stop but Chandler put away the rebound. Towards the end of the half Romford were awarded a penalty stroke but failed to take advantage as it was put wide of the goal. Harlow were unable to reach the break without conceding as a scrambled miss-hit shot went in off the post. The second half continued in much the same vane as Harlow continued to press with fast, direct attacks. The Romford defence holding firm with some last ditch deflections, fine saves and umpiring decisions, from the away, umpire which would have gone against the Harlow defence in the first period. At 3-1 up the next goal would be crucial in the match and the task was made more difficult when Adam Ottley was sin binned midway through the second half for a bad tackle. The Harlow attack still proved to be too much for Romford and Steve White fired home the fourth; being set up but yet more good approach work by Chandler. With the result beyond doubt the Romford team were rattled and started to resort to dissent and rough challenges. This resulted in two Romford players being sent to the sin bin. With 11 players against 9 Harlow slowed the game down and kept possession to see out the result and ensure the points. There was time for Harlow to be awarded a Penalty Stroke of their own but Symmonds's effort came back of the post meaning that the final score remained 4-1. Team: Norris, Prodger, Torvel, Packham, Chandler, Smith , Symmonds, Krzoska, Ottley, Shearman-Slack, White (c). 23/02/2008 Despite a number of players being unavailable Harlow put in a strong and determined performance but lost 1-0 to top of the league Havering to a goal in the last 5 minutes of the match. Fred Packham and Adam Ottley (both drafted in to replace injured/unavailable players) stepped up to the higher division well and provided a solid left flank for the Harlow team. Harlow started the game well and more than matched the league leaders. Joe Symmonds playing at sweeper marshalled the defence and ensured that any attacks by the Havering team were thwarted before any real opportunities were created. Throughout the match Havering's chances were limited to penalty corners with no opportunities being created from open play. This was due to the assistance provided to Symmonds by Jordan Torvel and Mike Prodger who both put in good defensive displays. At the other end Harlow looked dangerous with the counter attacking displays of Chris Shearman-Slack, Rob Chandler and Steve White. Unfortunately the chances created were kept out but the Havering keeper who made good saves twice from White and also a hard strike from Rob Chandler. Luke Krzoska and James Smith in the centre of midfield ensured that Harlow were able to attack on numerous occasions. Harlow's task was made more difficult midway through the first period when Torvel was sin binned for a deliberate back stick stop – according to the umpire! Harlow held firm during this period to reach half time at 0-0 and felt that a lead would not have been undeserved. The second half continued in the same manner. Havering's chances were again limited to penalty corners – dealt with by Harlow keeper Rich Norris, whilst Harlow continued to be frustrated by the good form of the Havering keeper. Towards the end of the match Packham and a Havering forward were both sin binned for a fracas in the Harlow defensive third. This resulted in another Havering penalty corner which resulting in a scrambled goal after numerous ricochets, including a rebound off the outside of the post. The irony of the situation is that it would have been better for Harlow if the Havering player had not been sent off; he was their usual penalty corner striker who the Harlow defence had dealt comfortably with all game. The change in routine caused confusion in both teams, leading to the goal. Although disappointed by the result Harlow can hold their heads high after a convincing performance against a very good side. Harlow hope to take this form into their clash against Romford on Saturday – 2.30pm start at Passmores School. Team: Norris, Packham, Prodger, Torvel, Ottley, Smith, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Shearman-Slack, White (c). 16/02/2008 Harlow finally returned to winning ways on Saturday with a 3-0 victory over struggling Redbridge and Ilford. Captain Steve White scored another hat-trick to take his league tally to 31 goals in 16 games but it was the unselfish attacking play of Rob Chandler, in his best display for the club, that set up the victory. Harlow started the game more positively than in recent matches and immediately took the game to the visitors. Luke Krzoska and Joe Symmonds dominated the central midfield area for the whole of the first half, which allowed Justin Hayward and in particular Rob Chandler to attack with pace down each flank. This combined with Jordan Torvel and Kyle Plumridge attacking from deep ensured Chris Shearman-Slack and Steve White had the space to cause defensive problems for the visitors. Harlow took the lead 10 minutes into the game when Chandler was realised down the right wing to race away into the D. Despite being one on one with the keeper he had the composure to square it for White to shoot home into the unguarded net. Harlow continued to press with Shearman-Slack and Chandler running at the defence on numerous occasions. The lead was doubled mid way through the half when White picked up a loose ball just outside the D before beating his marker and firing home from the top off the D. White almost completed his hat-trick just before the end of the half but, diving full length, he only managed to deflect a firmly struck Shearman-Slack cross onto the post. Despite the dominance in the first period Harlow looked nervous in the second half – not entirely surprising given recent results. This led to the midfield and defensive units dropping deeper thus allowing Redbridge and Ilford the majority of the possession in the opening 20 minutes of the second period. Strong defensive work' in particular by Kyle Plumridge, ensured that chances for the visitors were limited and any shots that were allowed were comfortable dealt with by keeper Rich Norris. Harlow ended the match much the stronger with the four pronged attack of Hayward, Chandler, Shearman-Slack and White once again proving too strong for the visitors defence. White came close with 2 efforts just passed the post in the final 10 minutes. The scoring was completed when Shearman-Slack tackled an under pressure defender to release Chandler down the right flank once more. In a carbon copy of the opening strike Chandler unselfishly squared for White to complete his hat-trick just 5 minutes from the final whistle. Hopefully this result will give Harlow the confidence to finish the season strongly in their remaining 6 league games. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvel, Plumridge, Hayward, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Shearman-Slack, White (c). 09/02/2008 Harlow suffered another defeat on Saturday when they lost by the odd goal in 9 against a determined Upminster side. Harlow started the match low in confidence due to an un-explicable poor run of performances. This lack of confidence showed with a number of individual performances being below par and not working together as a team that was evident when Harlow surged to the top of the table in the first half of the season. A lack of discipline and poor passing allowed Upminster to take the initiative early on in the game with the defence needing to thwart a number of attacks. In particular Mike Prodger at right back had a good match for Harlow. Despite the early pressure from the home team it was Harlow that opened the scoring when Chris Shearman-Slack slammed home from the top of the Dee after being release by Luke Krzoska. The advantage could have been doubled moments later when Rob Chandler was put through on the keeper by a pass from White only to be pulled back by the Upminster umpire for dangerous play over something that was no more dangerous than a fluffy dice! The poor passing by the Harlow team allowed the pressure to build by Upminster. This continued pressure led to 3 Upminster strikes before the break without reply. As has been the case in recent weeks the half time talk seemed to fix a few of the problems and Harlow started the second half much the stronger. The defecit was halved when Luke Krzoska fired home a rebound following a strike from a short corner. Mid way through the second half Harlow equalised, when the deadly combination of Shearman-Slack and White allowed White to tunr in the Dee and score in the bottom corner. At this point it looked as if Harlow would go onto to win the match. However poor marking allowed the Upminster team to find an unmarked forward from a pass in their own defensive third, who forced the ball home at the far post. Harlow pushed forward again and found another equaliser when White fired in a pin-point shot into the roof of the net through a crowd of players. Once again Harlow allowed Upminster to score with a carbon copy of the 4th goal. This time there was no way back for the Harlow side. Harlow take on Redbridge & Ilford at 1pm on Saturday at Passmores school looking for that elusive win which will hopefully restore the missing confidence. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvel, Plumridge, Cholerton, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Shearman-Slack, White (c). 26/01/2008 Harlow's recent run of poor form continued with a narrow defeat to mid table Old Southendians. In a game that Harlow should have won poor individual performances meant that all 3 points were dropped in their bid for promotion. Harlow started the game slowly and allowed Old Southendians the early momentum, with possession being squandered too easily. This led to Old Southendians taking the lead – slamming home a penalty corner. Harlow looked dangerous on the counter attack with White and Shearman-Slack combing well together as usual. However all too often the play broke down before reaching the Harlow attack. Harlow did force an equaliser when a Shearman-Slack cross was deflected past the Old Southendians keeper for White to get the slightest of touches as it crossed the line. This was hotly disputed by Old Southendians who claimed that the Harlow skipper had not got a touch. However as Shearman-Slack had crossed from inside the Dee the goal would have stood anyway. White and Shearman-Slack have not yet had the discussion as to who will be claiming the goal! The equaliser was the only highlight of the first half for the Harlow team as they soon found themselves 2-1 down – following another strike from a penalty corner. Matters got worse before half time as Old Southendians force home a third – a lead that they thoroughly deserved. White laid into his team during the half time team talk – which appeared to have the desired effect. Harlow came out very strong for the second half; early on halving the deficit when Shearman-Slack slotted home from a well worked penalty corner. Moments later Harlow were denied an equaliser when the umpire ruled a Shearman-Slack effort to be too dangerous and disallowed the goal. Harlow continued to press and levelled the score when White fired home a penalty corner strike. Harlow could have taken the lead when Shearman-Slack and White combined to beat the Old Southendians keeper only to see a miraculous save off the line by a Southendian defender. This seemed to deflate the Harlow team as they allowed the slackness of the first half performance to creep back into their play. This was to prove costly as Old Southendiands fired in their 3rd penalty corner of the match in the final few minutes to take all 3 points. Harlow take on Havering 3s on Saturday hoping to return to winning ways. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvel, Plumridge, Cholerton, Smith , Symmonds, Krzoska, Shearman-Slack, White (c). 19/01/2008 Harlow returned to league action on Saturday against Maldon and Little Baddow. This was always going to be a tough game as 3rd placed Harlow took on second place Maldon. The task was made even harder by the atrocious weather condition; constant rain making it difficult to hold onto the stick whenever striking the ball. Harlow started strongly and James Smith and Joe Symmonds enjoyed a lot of possession in the centre of midfield. This allowed Rob Chandler and Luke Krzoska the freedom to attack down both flanks. Harlow took the game to Maldon and the penetrating runs of Chris Shearman-Slack troubled the visiting defence. It was from one of these attacks that the breakthrough came. Shearman-Slack fed White on the left wing whose cross was fired home by Chandler. Harlow continued to have some good possession but Maldon began to gain a foothold in the game. This led to a series of penalty corners from which the equaliser was scored. The remainder of the 1st half continued in a similar vain – Harlow producing some good attacking moves with Maldon occasionally threatening from set piece play. The weather conditions worsened in the second half but great defence from Steve Jones, Jordan Torvel and Mike Prodger ensured that Maldon only had two open play chances – one superbly saved by Rich Norris and the other blocked by Kyle Plumridge. Harlow enjoyed the better possession and attacking positions throughout the second half. However they couldn't find the breakthrough as the visiting keeper made some good saves with other opportunities going agonisingly wide. A deflected cross from Chris Shearman-Slack skimmed the outside of the post in the final few minutes but the score remained at 1-1 with Harlow only taking a point. Ultimately with the amount of good possession Harlow it was they that were hampered more by the weather than Maldon. In the conditions it was a good performance and Harlow can take confidence into next week's game away against Old Southendians. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvel, Plumridge, Chandler, Smith , Symmonds, Krzoska, Shearman-Slack, White (c). 08/12/2007 Harlow went into the last league game before the Christmas break knowing that a win would leave them during over the festive season. However the unavailability of two key players in Mike Prodger and Chris Shearman-Slack left the team lacking in experience with 8 of the players only 22 or under. It was the lack of experience and some very dubious decisions from the home umpire that caused Harlow's demise in the game. Harlow started the game brightly with Joe Symmonds controlling possession and Harlow pressing the Colchester defence. However time and again the Harlow attack was thwarted by an infringement of the defence only for the decision to go in the favour of the home team. Three clear cut penalty corners were denied in the opening 5 minutes alone. Harlow continued to press with Rob Chandler and Craig Cholerton causing problems down both flanks. With the ‘assistance' of the umpire Colchester gained a foot hold in the game and started to mount some serious attacks of their own. Harlow keeper Rich Norris was in some inspired form and pulled of a number of tremendous saves throughout the match. Colchester eventually opened the scoring towards the end of the first half when the ball was forced home after another fine save from Norris. Harlow raised their game and pressed for the equaliser finally forcing some penalty corners towards the end of the half. It was from one of these – the last action of the half - that the equaliser came. Kyle Plumridge forcing the ball over the line after a strike from Steve White was saved by the Colchester stopper. The second half continued in much the same vain with Harlow pressing but not being able to find the final, telling pass. Colchester did step up the tempo and controlled more of the possession. In this half with the Colchester team attacking his end the umpire started to award penalty corners for offences that in the first half would have resulted in a free hit to the defence. It was from 2 of these corners that Colchester scored. One of them hotly disputed when a Colchester forward fell over long after rounding Rich Norris only for the umpire to say that the keeper had brought the player down. This was made worse when Plumridge was sin binned for his resulting remonstrations. Harlow continued to press but without the penetrative forward runs of Chris Shearman-Slack to support Steve White up front were unable to find a break through. Harlow now sit 3rd in the league table only 2 points behind the league leaders. A position at the start of the season that would have been considered an excellent showing. Team: Norris, Jones, Maxfield, Torvel, Plumridge, Chandler, Cholerton, Krzoska, Smith, White, Symmonds. 01/12/2007 Harlow suffered only their second league defeat of the season against at Witham team who over the seasons seem to have an upper hand in the encounters. Both teams started the game well with the game flowing from end to end. However in the early stages the Harlow defence coped with the visitor's attack, in particular Jordan Torvel dominating the Witham striker. Harlow, as always, looked dangerous on the counter attack and it was from such an attack that the scoring was opened. James Smith fed skipper Steve white who raced away down the left wing before firing in a pin-pint cross for Chris Shearman-Slack to deflect passed a helpless keeper. Unfortunately Harlow suffered an uncharacteristic lapse in concentration allowing Witham to equalise with the first move from the re-start. Despite the set back Harlow still looked in control with Joe Symmonds and Luke Krzoska playing well in midfield. Harlow's 2nd came 10 minutes from the break when Steve White fired home a rebound from a penalty corner. Harlow managed to keep the lead a bit longer but allowed Witham to equalise just before the half time whistle. A sudden down pour and hail storm during the half time break meant that both teams started the second period rather wet and cold. It was Witham who were the stronger in the conditions. Harlow looked nervous and started giving the ball away in un-pressurised situations – something which they haven't been doing this season. Witham's 3rd came 10 minutes into the second period when sloppy marking allowed an attacker to deflect home at the back post. Matters were made worse soon after when Witham scored a fourth after some further poor passing by the Harlow team. Harlow rallied towards the end and started to cause some problems for the Witham defence however the conditions ensured that it was going to be hard to get back in to the game and the breakthrough never came. Harlow travel to Colchester on Saturday looking to bounce back – knowing a win will ensure that they enjoy their Christmas break sitting at the top of the league table. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvel, Plumridge, Chandler, Cholerton, Krzoska, Smith, Shearman-Slack, White, Symmonds. 24/11/2007 Due to East London unnecessarily delaying the scheduled start time Harlow peaked too early in their preparation/warm up for the game. As a result Harlow started the game sluggishly and were 2-0 down inside the opening 8 minutes. The first goal coming from a rebound after a penalty corner save from Rich Norris. The second from a free hit outside the Dee which the Harlow defence stated did not deflect off an East London stick and so should not have been given. However Harlow then woke up and dominated the remainder of the entire match. Harlow took a sub for the first time this season and utilised the skills of Club Coach Bob Gotobed in a managerial role. The quartet of Smith , Symmonds, Krzoska and Cholerton were used to superb effect in the rolling sub scenario allowing the fitness of the Harlow midfield to overwhelm their East London counterparts. Rob Chandler on the right flank always looked dangerous and caused the London defence problems on every attack. With Chris Shearman-Slack and Steve White running at the heart of the London defence it was not long before the chances started to flow. The East London Keeper made a few good saves before Harlow halved the deficit – White slamming home a rebound from a penalty corner of their own. Despite more half chances being created Harlow went into the half-time break trailing 2-1. It did not talk long for the equaliser to come. Luke Krzoska finding the net after some determined play in the Dee during the first attack of the second period. From that point on it was a case of when Harlow would score again rather than if! The goal came midway through the half when Shearman-Slack and White combined in style to set Cholerton free at the top of the Dee with only the keeper to beat – which he did with aplomb. East London did mount some break away chances but the result was never really in doubt. The points were made save 10 minutes from time when White scored his second after some fine approach work from Cholerton. It was a particularly pleasing result – coming from 2 goals down to dominate and comfortably win a match against a team that were only 3 points behind in the league table at the start of the day. Harlow take on Witham on Saturday; 3pm push back at Passmores School. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvel, Plumridge, Chandler, Cholerton, Krzoska, Smith, Shearman-Slack, White, Symmonds. 17/11/2007 Top of the table Harlow beat third place Saffron Walden by the odd goal in seven. The game started at a high pace but the new look Harlow midfield of Rob Chandler, James Smith. Luke Krzoska and Craig Cholerton were soon on top as Harlow dominated the early exchanges. However Harlow were soon to find the reason for Saffron's elevated league position – the display of the visiting Keeper. Attack after attack was dispelled by the Saffron shot stopper. However Harlow continued to press and were eventually rewarded when Steve White finally found the net after his initial shot was once again blocked by the keeper. Up until this point Harlow had not been troubled by the visitors, however Harlow were shocked to find themselves 2-1 down after Saffron Walden scored from two quick penalty corners, following a couple of break away attacks. Throughout the game penalty corners proved to be the only threat from the Walden attack as any open play chances were soon stopped by the fine work of Harlow's own keeper Rich Norris. The home team quickly regained their composure and were soon on the attack again but continued to be frustrated by the keeper. The equaliser came just before the break. A strong run by Chris Shearman-Slack resulted in a powerful cross which Steve White converted with a cheeky one handed deflection behind his back. The second half could have proven difficult for Harlow as sweeper Steve Jones suffered a groin injury. Good tactical acumen from Mike Prodger and the usual strong defence of Jordan Torvel and Kyle Plumridge kept the danger to a minimum. Harlow took the lead early into the second half when Shearman-Slack fed White who raced passed the Walden defence to fire into the far corner. Harlow then went on the defensive and the remainder of the match was spent with Walden pressing and Harlow looking dangerous on the attack. One of the attacks led to the Harlow's 4th when Shearman-Slack found Cholerton to finish at the far post. Walden cut the deficit to just 1 when they scored from another penalty corner with 5 minutes play left. This led to a nervy finish for the Harlow team, which was made worse when a penalty corner was awarded on the final whistle. The corner had to be played out but deflected wide by Torvel ensuring that Harlow deservedly gained all 3 points. Harlow travel to play East London on Saturday. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvel, Plumridge, Chandler, Cholerton, Krzoska, Smith, Shearman-Slack, White. 10/11/2007 In a hard fought, close encounter Harlow beat a resurgent Romford team to go back to the top of the table. This was always going to be a tough test for the Harlow team, not helped by two enforced changes to the side, however Steve Maxfield at sweeper and James Smith at left midfield both performed admirably. The match started in the way it would remain throughout – both teams pushing forward testing each others defence. The Harlow defence of Maxfield, Mike Prodger, Jordan Torvel and Kyle Plumridge showed that they were able to cope with the Romford attack better than Romford could cope with the Harlow strikeforce. Harlow always looked dangerous on the counter attack and found the Romford keeper in fine form; Steve White and Chris Shearman-Slack both producing saves in the early exchanges. Harlow's break through came mid-way through the first half when Shearman-Slack calmly slotted home from a switched penalty corner. Shortly after Harlow almost doubled their lead when White and Rob Chandler broke away but could not find the finish, The resolute defending continued to ensure Harlow remained ahead at the break. The second period followed the same pattern as the first – end to end flowing hockey. Romford got the equaliser shortly after the restart. The goal came from a penalty flick which keeper Rich Norris managed to get his stick to but unluckily could not keep out of the net. Harlow pushed forward again and within minutes were back ahead. Chandler broke down the right flank with a strong run. Finding himself at the top of the Dee under pressure from 2 Romford defenders and the keeper he had the vision to square to White who slotted home. It was Romford's turned to push forward but some fine keeping from Norris kept them at bay. The second equaliser eventually did come after a scramble in the Dee. Harlow showed determination and character that was not present last season when they moved forward again to find the winner 8 minutes from time. White slamming home a fierce strike from a short corner. The Harlow team managed to control possession and see out the game without further incident. Harlow face another stern test on Saturday when they entertain third placed Saffron Walden at Passmores school, 12 noon push back. Team: Norris, Maxfield, Prodger, Torvel, Plumridge, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Smith, Shearman-Slack, White. 03/11/2007 Harlow earned a point in a top of the table encounter against Havering 2nd XI. This was a 1st against 2nd placed team clash so Harlow were pleased with a point, particularly as they were 3-1 down at half time. Havering started the game strongly and were on top from the first whistle. Some strict decision making from the visitor's umpire led to a number of penalty corners for the Havering team. It was from one of these early corners that Havering took the lead. Keeper Rich Norris having no chance when a slick move resulted in a close range shot. However good work from the midfield; in particular Man of the match Justin Hayward, slowly brought Harlow back into the game. Harlow equalised mid way through the 1st period when a break away by Steve White down the right flank led to Chris Shearman-Slack accurately firing home from the top of the Dee. However the movement of the Havering team resulted with two further goals being added before the break. Harlow showed their resilience, which has been missing in previous seasons, by taking control in the second half. Jordan Torvel and Steve Jones started to dominate the Havering forwards, who found life increasingly difficult without the aid of their own umpire. This allowed Chris Shearman-Slack to attack more freely. It was a Shearman-Slack run and shot that led to Harlow's second goal; Rob Chandler expertly deflecting the shot past the helpless Havering keeper. Harlow continued to press and eventually found the equaliser with a contender for ‘goal of the season'. A penalty corner was saved by the Havering keeper for Steve White to take a reverse stick shot at the top of the Dee from the rebound; a shot that ended in the top corner with the defence just watching. Both teams continued to push forward for a wining goal. This was made harder for Harlow when Mike Prodger was sin binned resulting in the home team playing with a player short. However some fine saves by Rich Norris ensured that Harlow gained a well deserved point. In the end it was Harlow that felt disappointed that all 3 points were not secured Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvill, Plumridge, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Hayward, Shearman-Slack, White. 27/10/2007 Harlow gained their 4th straight win against a solid Redbridge team to take them to the top of the league – albeit only on goal difference. Although full of confidence Harlow new it would be a tough encounter as the Redbridge team always provide a strong opposition in what usually turns out to be a hard fought battle. Harlow gained the upper hand in the decisive first encounters with some strong tackling from Joe Symmonds and Luke Krzoska in the centre of the field. This allowed Chris Shearman-Slack to run at the Redbridge defence causing problems with every attack. It was from one of these runs that Harlow opened the scoring. Shearman–slack beating the defence and goalkeeper for Rob Chandler to slot into an open goal. Harlow continued to press but couldn't add to the score. It appeared that it might just be ‘one of those days' when a deflected penalty corner was disallowed for being too high., soon after which Redbridge equalised on a breakaway attack. However Harlow's advantage was restored when Shearman-Slack intelligently fed Chandler from a quick free-hit to slot home a reverse stick shot just before the break. Harlow continued to dominate in the second period. Mike Prodger and Jordan Torvel constantly coming out on top against the Redbridge forwards. The scoring was completed early in the second half when Chandler raced away to selflessly square for Shearman-Slack to fire home. Harlow continued to pres but couldn't add to the scoring as the Redbridge goal led a charmed life; with a couple of goal line scrambles and a strong appeal for a Harlow penalty stroke turned down. This was a strong and spirited display by the Harlow team. Harlow now face their toughest test of the season so far as they take on second placed Havering 2s on Saturday at Passmores School starting at 1pm. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvill, Plumridge, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Hayward, Shearman-Slack, White. 20/10/2007 Harlow produced another convincing display at the weekend resulting in a 4-1 victory over Upminster taking them to 2nd in the league table. The whole team put in another fine performance but particular credit should go to Mike Prodger and Rob Chandler who linked up well on Harlow's right hand side and Jordan Torvill who had another solid game in the centre of defence. Harlow gained the upper hand from the first whistle – immediately starting to threaten the visitor's defence. Chris Shearman-Slack proved a constant threat with his attacking runs from mid-field creating numerous half chances during the opening 15 minutes. Despite the pressure exerted by the Harlow team the breakthrough did not come until midway through the first period. Shearman-Slack converting after White's mis-hit penalty corner. Shortly after Shearman-Slack turned provider as his cross looked to be deflected out of harms way by an Upminster stick only for Steve White to dive full length at the far post to claim Harlow's 2nd. It was the same combination again that claimed Harlow's 3rd just before the interval. Good work by Chandler released Shearman-Slack who fed White to slot home his 2nd of the game. Just after the interval Harlow scored a superb team goal. Torvill dispossessing an Upminster forward passing to Symmonds who fed Shearman-Slack. He in turn found Justin Hayward in space on the left flank. His cross pitch run beating several defenders before crossing the ball back across the pitch for White to connect first time from the top of the Dee firing an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner. Harlow continued to dominate creating a number of further half chances but couldn't add to the score line. Upminster scored their consolation late into the match when keeper Rich Norris, who had concentrated well throughout was left with a two against one situation, which he just failed to keep out. Harlow is away to Rebridge and Ilford on Saturday. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvill, Plumridge, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Hayward, Shearman-Slack, White. 13/10/2007 Harlow entered into the match against Havering 3s full of confidence after last weeks victory against Old Southendians. This confidence proved to be well founded as the outstanding team performance demolished an average Havering team 10-1. Skipper Steve white scored 8 (eight) of the Harlow goals but it was the all round team play that deserves the plaudits. Harlow started the match in determined style and soon had the upper hand in the match. Luke Krzoska had an inspired game and controlled mid-field; assisted by Joe Symmonds. It was this control that allowed Chris Shearman-Slack and wide men Rob Chandler and Justin Hayward to expose the fragile home defence. The break through came only 5 minutes into the game when a fierce shot from Chandler was saved by the keeper only for White to control and slot home. The game continued in the same vain – Harlow spending most of the time camped in the Havering defensive third. Any attack that Havering did muster was extinguished by strong defending by Jordan Torvill and Steve Jones in the centre of the Harlow defence. This defensive stability allowed full backs Mike Prodger and Kyle Plumridge the freedom to push further up the pitch and allow Harlow to pass the ball around at will. The match was over within the first 12 minutes as White completed his hat-trick – finishing cliniquely after good approach work from the team. It was White who scored the fourth form a well worked penalty corner involving Krzoska. Although not having much to do Harlow Keeper Rich Norris kept his concentration and ensured that he cleared the ball whenever Havering got close enough to be needed.Good approach work by Chris Shearman-Slack set up Rob Chandler to grab Harlow's fifth guiding in the ball at the back post. It was Shearman-Slack himself that completed the first period scoring – slamming home an unstoppable shot from the top of the Dee. At 6-0 up Harlow took 10 minutes after the break to get going again but Krzoska soon had control of the game – allowing Shearman-Slack and Chandler to attack at will down the right flank. White scored another 4 in the second half to complete double figures for Harlow. The Havering consolation came at 9-0 when a well worked free hit ended up with a forward deflecting home at the back post. Harlow even had the luxury of having a penalty flick saved during the second period – without it mattering. Harlow take on Upminster on Saturday 20th starting at 2.30pm at Passmores school. If anybody is interested in joining the club further details can be obtained from committee@harlowhockeyclub.co.uk Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvill, Plumridge, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Hayward, Shearman-Slack, White. 06/10/2007 Harlow picked up their first points of the new league campaign with a resounding and well-deserved victory over Old Southendians. Skipper Steve White made a few adjustments with player positions before the start but in the first 10 minutes it looked as though it hadn't worked as Old Southendians took the match to the home side. However string defending from Steve Jones and Jordan Torvill ensured that the Old Southendians attack did not have any chances to capitalise. Harlow started to get into the game and new pairing Joe Symmonds and Luke Krzoska started to dominate the centre of midfield. This led to Harlow exerting more pressure, which eventually resulted in a short corner. White's shot deflected off a defender's stick to open the scoring. Harlow continued to press and midway through the first half doubled their advantage. Symmonds pass found white who was surrounded by 4 defenders but with some sublime ball control and a pirouette that would not have looked out of place in a tutu at the National Ballet he beat his men before firing an exocet of a shot into the roof of the net from the top of the Dee. The second half continued in much the same vain. Harlow continued to press and good work by Chris Shearman-Slack ably assisted by wide men Hayward and Chandler opened up the Old Southendians defence almost at will. The visitors keeper made some fine stops to keep them in the game. Harlow's third came midway through the second period when Shearman-Slack again found White unmarked in the Dee. This time white's shot was only half parried by the keeper with Krzoska following up to slot home his first goal for the 1st team. The scoring was completed when unselfish play by Rob Chandler set White up to complete his hatrick. Harlow keeper Rich Norris was unlucky not to keep a clean sheet as Old Southendians scored in the last five minutes when a miss-hit from a short corner bobbled passed a Harlow stick on the line. The team hope to continue their good form away to Havering 3s on Saturday. Team: Norris, Jones, Prodger, Torvill, Plumridge, Chandler, Symmonds, Krzoska, Hayward, Shearman-Slack, White, Cholerton. |