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IGH-FLYING Salisbury took all three points in an entertaining clash at the Ray Mac Stadium.
The game started with both sides showing good pace and attacking intent. Salisbury asserted themselves and territorially had the majority of the forward play. Hendon got men behind the ball and looked to break out quickly.
In the 21st minute, Whites’ Josh Hedges made a surging run down the inside right channel before making a deft past into the box to Dan Fitchett. His close range shot was blocked but Hedges was able to bury the rebound into the net to give the home side the lead.
Five minutes later Hendon broke quickly down the right hand side and their captain Joseph White was able to fire in a shot, beating keeper Josh Gould at the near post to bring Hendon a surprise equaliser.
Salisbury looked stunned, but set about regaining the lead on the restart. Quick passing through the middle of the park saw the ball come to Harry Williams who hammered the ball home to restore Salisbury’s lead.
A couple of minutes later Williams again had the ball in the net but was denied a brace when he was adjudged to be offside. The only yellow card of the game was given to Hendon’s Samuel Adenola when he held back a Salisbury forward.
The first half played out with Salisbury dominating quality possession but unable to create good chances. Half-time came with the home side deservedly ahead after three minutes of additional time.
The second half saw Hendon fast out of the blocks and transformed by half-time break. Salisbury were but a shadow of the team that dominated the first half. To a man Hendon seemed quicker and stronger on the ball, but the home side put bodies on the line and held on for the victory.
★★★★★