Report
Hitchin’s first three friendlies had been very challenging as they played full-time football league opposition who expectedly proved well ahead in their preparation for the season and were fitter and quicker than Hitchin. However, despite the defeats, much needed match fitness was gained as Hitchin moved on to the non-league phase of their pre-season build-up. First up was a trip to step 5 Potton and manager Michael Jones named a strong starting line-up.
It was immediately apparent that Hitchin would see far more of the ball and they dominated the game throughout. There were a number of excellent passing moves and Charlie Briggs headed just wide after four minutes before Hitchin went in front on 14 minutes with a good finish from Taylor Rhiney after a goalkeeping error.
The second goal came just four minutes later as Plamedi Bomolo finished off after a Rhiney shot had been well saved following a crisp move. Totally against the run of play Potton got a goal back after 27 minutes, with Eddie Connolly scoring from close range. This did not deter Hitchin who continued to create good chances with excellent passing football.
Toby Syme replaced Briggs after 47 minutes and the pattern of the game remained as in the first half with Hitchin dominating possession. The third goal was no surprise and it was a second on the night for Bomolo in the 56th minute. He was involved in the move that led to the goal and all evening he was a major threat showing good strength and hold up play.
Hitchin continued to pile forward creating chances that should have been taken. The fourth goal was guided in by a Potton defender after an excellent cross from Callum Kane. Liam Brooks, Rhiney and Forbes all missed good chances as Hitchin continued to show intensity right to the end of the game.
I spoke to Michael Jones after the game and he said it was a pleasing performance and he enjoyed the quality of our passing. However he was keeping his feet firmly on the ground and was disappointed with the goal we conceded and the number of chances that went begging. But this was a step in the right direction and showed great promise for the future.
The attendance was 177 and there was a very large contingent from Hitchin (probably 80% of the crowd). Among the Hitchin supporters it was good to see recent Hall Of Fame entrant Dan Webb who looked fit enough to play. He enjoyed our display.
It will be harder on Saturday as we host step 3 Real Bedford but it will be a good indicator of where we are in our preparations.
Hitchin Town Starting XI
Josh Bowler
Josh Jackman
Callum Kane
Josh Coldicott-Stevens
Charlie Briggs
Ciaren Jones
Lewis Franklin
Stephen Gleeson
Taylor Rhiney (1 goal)
Liam Brooks
Plamedi Bomolo (2 goals)
Subs:
Kye Tearle for Franklin (66 mins)
Trialist A for Gleeson (60 mins)
Toby Syme for Briggs (47 mins)
Charlie McDonald for Jones (69 mins)
Trialist B for Brooks (69 mins)
Kieran Forbes for Kane (80 mins)
Tyrese Kamara not used
No details were given of the Potton team.
Roy Izzard