HERTS SENIOR COUNTY LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION
BUNTINFORD TOWN 3 LONDON LIONS 1

London Lions experienced disappointment at Buntingford on a day when they underperformed against a hard-working but organised opponent.

Lions started well with Josh Kennet testing the keeper early on. They forged ahead after 11 minutes when a cross from Josh Kennet saw Max Kyte pulled down by the Buntingford centre half and the referee pointed to the spot for the infringement. Kyte dusted himself down before converting from the spot to put Lions ahead, his 22nd of the season.

Rather than pushing on for a second Lions let Buntingford back into the game and Ruben Rabstein pulled off some great saves in the Lions goal.

The visitors fashioned another good opening just before the half hour when Kennet found Austin Lipman in space but was unable to double the Lions lead.

Minutes later Buntingford attacked Adam Lipman in the Lions box and it was adjudged that he took the ball after the man and Buntingford equalised from the penalty.

Lions came out with more purpose after the break and Charlie Kasler hit the post and Anthony Stockman put the rebound over the bar.

A dull second half came to life on 70 when Buntingford striker was unchallenged and scored from close range to give them a 2-1 lead.

Ten minutes later and the same story from a Buntingford corner and another finish in the six-yard box to ensure the points for Buntingford and a 3-1 victory.

Lions will have to improve dramatically if they are to beat last season’s champions and local rivals Belstone who they face in the Anagram Trophy semi-final at Rowley Lane.