Herts Intermediate Cup First Round Codicote 2 Harpenden Rovers 3 HARPENDEN Rovers faced high-flying Codicote Reserves at Codicote in the Intermediate County Cup in gale-like conditions. With the returning Graham Golds taking command of the midfield,

Herts Intermediate Cup First Round

Codicote 2 Harpenden Rovers 3

HARPENDEN Rovers faced high-flying Codicote Reserves at Codicote in the Intermediate County Cup in gale-like conditions.

With the returning Graham Golds taking command of the midfield, Rovers started brightly against the wind.

Codicote claimed a surprising lead with a freak goal but, with Golds and Alex Hamer in outstanding form, Rovers were soon level. Golds released Gareth Devoti who raced clear and slid the ball home.

Just before the stroke of half time, Rovers were caught sleeping at the back and Codicote took advantage to regain the lead.

Rovers defended well against an increased threat from Codicote in the second half before Golds again began to dictate and, after Devoti was sent clear, a foul challenge handed Rovers a penalty. Devoti stepped up and scored his second to make it 2-2. The match was not level for long as Golds put the finishing touches to an exemplary display when he scored from a Matt Chugg corner.

Two outstanding saves from goalkeeper Howitt ensured Rovers secured their 3-2 win. Manager Jim Nicholls hailed his back four for a performance that was a vast improvement on recent matches.

Harpenden Rovers: Howitt, Peacock, Hamer, Fox, Harmer, Watson, Chugg, Golds, Poole (Rawlinson 79), Carberry (Jenkinson 76), Devoti. Subs unused: Williams.

Rovers Reserves remain undefeated for the season after a 2-1 win over Letchworth Garden City Eagles Reserves, with goals from Paul Turner and Phil Lythgoe.

Rovers A side went out of the Apsley Junior Cup, losing to Old Parmiterians A 2-0 with Lawrence Tait outstanding at left back.