Spartan South Midlands League, Blue Boys march on

12:12pm Friday 21st December 2001

LONDON COLNEY are one game away from the Challenge Trophy final after dispatching Tring Athletic in the fourth round on Saturday, December 15.

Gary Sippetts secured the win with an 85th minute strike to set up a semi final against either Hanwell Town or Cockfosters. In current form, the Blue Boys will not mind either way.

Despite being without four regulars Phil Franklin, Dave Ross, Lee Talbot and Paul Young Mickey Wright's team made light of the frosty conditions and, after struggling in the opening period, had by far the better of proceedings after the break before Sippetts settled the match.

"I was surprised the match was even played," Wright said, referring to the treacherous conditions underfoot.

"The pitch was a great leveller but we were much better in the second half, when they didn't have a shot on goal."

With defenders barely able to turn on the hard ground, flair players such as Talbot and Ross would have caused havoc. However, Dean Shuttleworth, one of their replacements, proved a more than adequate stand-in and it was his cross that created the winning goal.

Eamon Rogers' far post header found Sippetts and, with 32 goals to his credit already this season, he was not about to pass up his 33rd.

Three of Saturday's absentees will be back for the home encounter with Ruislip Manor on Saturday, but Franklin will not be back from holiday until February and deputy keeper Graham Milner, who was vital in keeping Athletic at bay in the first half, is suspended.

This should not influence the result, though, and with title rivals Letchworth having what appears to be a home banker, Wright expects it to be as you were at the top of the league after this weekend's action.

Editor's Choice