LONDON Colney fell at the first hurdle in the Herts Charity Shield, going down 3-2 against Hertford Town.
With both sides having early chances, it was the Blueboys who struck first when Martin Collins whipped a cross over from the right and Jimmy Hill sent a powerful curling header into the top right corner.
The first controversial moment of the game soon followed; the referee adjudged Dan Power had deliberately handled the ball and awarded Hertford a penalty. The home side did not profit, however, as Mark Whittamore saved low to his left.
The save turned the momentum in Colney’s favour, and they should have increased their advantage but Matt Newman was unable to convert his chances and the score remain 1-0.
Early in the second half Hertford struck with a stunning volley which flew over Whittamore and into the far corner to level the game.
The Blueboys regained the lead when Greg Shaw flicked the ball on for Hill who drove the ball low past the Hertford keeper.
Once again, though, Hertford won a penalty for handball and this time Anthony Anstead took the kick and made the score 2-2.
The Blueboys pressed forward for the winning goal and Newman went close with one effort just past the left hand post whilst another effort was blocked by the keeper’s legs.
As Colney looked for a winner, Hertford caught the Blueboys defence in two minds with a long ball, allowing Anstead to nip in for his second to win the game.
London Colney get their SSML Premier Division season underway on Saturday away to Biggleswade Town (3pm kick-off) before welcoming Ampthill Town on Tuesday (7.45pm KO).
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