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After a frustrating month of snow-covered pitches and postponements, the Hurricanes finally kicked off 2010 with a hard-fought win over an industrious and committed Letchworth team to move into the last 16 of the Herts County Cup.
A combination of understandable rustiness and spirited opponents made it a tricky game for the boys and it was only in the last ten minutes that we could all relax, secure in the knowledge they had booked their place in the fourth round.
The first half was fiercely competitive and played at a fast pace. The Hurricanes just about edged it, in terms of possession and chances created and deserved their 1-0 lead – a Joel shot at the far-post after a cross from the left eluded the entire Letchworth defence. Joel, Sam K and Will all had half-chances to increase the lead but the team were grateful for Sam Hen’s alertness and bravery, racing out to narrow the angle and parrying a shot when a Letchworth forward broke through.
The early part of the second half was very even but, as Letchworth began to tire, Hitchin took control and began to dominate possession. Sam K became increasingly influential on the right-wing and deservedly made it 2-0 when he squeezed a shot in at the near-post after a superb run. Hitchin threatened to extend their lead with every attack and a third was added when a cross from William was diverted goalbound by Somerset and – like a true predator – Joel made certain with his second of the game.
The boys adjusted very well after such a long lay-off and deservedly ran out winners. Sam Hen made some crucial saves and handled the ball very securely. Patrick and Sam Hart were imperious in defence and deservedly kept a clean-sheet. The Will-Kane partnership out-ran and dominated the Letchworth midfield and Sam K and Joel combined well to provide a constant threat. Somerset made another impressive impact, leading the line as Hitchin took the game by the scruff of the neck after the break.
The boys now meet Baldock’s B team, the Crusaders, at Ickleford on Saturday 20 February.
Man of the match – Yet another very impressive all-round team performance this week made this a tricky choice. Man-of-the-match was William, who is developing into a terrific box-to-box player – tireless running, fearsome tackling and good distribution, particularly during a very competitive first half.
Team – Sam Hen, Patrick, Sam Hart, William, Kane, Joel, Sam King, Somerset.
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