Harpenden Hockey Club’s men’s 1sts registered back-to-back losses for the first time this season as they were beaten 1-0 by East London.

After last week’s 5-1 defeat to Blueharts 2nds, Harps’ were forced to reorganise as their injury list grows. Their new-look defensive line-up was still organising itself when East London took the lead after 10 minutes. Harpenden lost possession in the East London half. As the defence back-pedalled the hosts moved the ball down their right flank and a simple ball back across the face of goal was converted from close-in.

This proved to be the only clear cut chance of a game in which defences dominated.

A much improved second half performance by Harpenden saw them achieve a greater share of possession, but no greater penetration of the East London D.

Harpenden were able to force only two short corners, neither of which resulted in a direct chance on goal. They will need to rediscover their earlier free-scoring style if they are to return to winning ways on Saturday, when Broxbourne visit Woollams.