Nirankari Sides Show Title Credentials

Despite more frustrations with widespread cancellations, Nirankari Sports Sabha took a huge stride towards the Premier Division crown as they saw off league leaders Mallard. David Iwedino, Ricky Case and Shaun Turner were on target. The latter have now finished their games, whilst the champions sit in sixth-place, 16 points behind, but with 8 games remaining! Mallard’s Craig Reynolds said: ”No complaints, the better team won”.

Division One saw a huge shock as Pied Piper were almost certainly handed the league title by Breachwood Lions. After a goalless first-half, Pig and Whistle countered midway through the second, and after a shot was cleared off the line by Iaian Turkentine, it fell for John Johnston, and the predator found the Lions net for an unsurprising opener for the second-placed team. However, after going in front, they seemed to take their foot off the gas somewhat. Lions’ Adam Burnage played a telling pass into the box that allowed substitute Ben Dye to beat the offside trap and nip the ball past the ‘keeper for the leveller. Moments later, Danny Jefferies’ flick-on landed in the danger zone between the last defender and the ‘keeper. The latter tried to claim the ball, but wasn't quick enough and the canny Ian Canning managed to get a toe on the ball to poke home for what was eventually the winner.

In Division Three, King Pin United moved into third place after a comfortable win over MBDA. In a game which could’ve ended 12-6, both teams missed a hatful of chances, whilst the goalkeepers also made some terrific saves. James Wyatt grabbed the opener before Dave Holmes assisted Carl Lingwood for number two. After the break, Holmes slotted home before Wyatt got his second with a good finish.

Stevenage Leisure won again after Carl Smith set them on their way with two in the first ten minutes. James Batchelor netted the third after Chris Tillbrook’s shot was blocked, he lobbed the ‘keeper from 25 yards. Tillbrook added another, but it was Dan O’Brien who finished the scoring before the break for Hogshead. Jamie Drackford grabbed the only the goal of the second-half when his volley from the edge of the area was too strong for the ‘keeper.

Nirankari Sports Sabha Reserves saw off one of the contenders in Division Four. Lee Wilson (hat-trick), Martin Wilson (two), Sam Spencer, Mark Outram and Pete Duffy netted against Roebuck Gate.

Stevenage Fencing looked to have set up a title-decider on 27th April after a comfortable win. Marv Hall (hat-trick), Arin Fehmi (two), Neil Roskilly, Alan Widdows and Mark Baker were on the mark against North Herts Celtic. Max Howard (two) and Daniel Burley replied.

Yorkshire Grey won with ease as Lewis Sealy (two), Robbie Freeman (two), Lee Grimsey and Matt Burton were on target. Coach and Horses' consolation came courtesy of Marvin Miller.

All other games were off due to waterlogged pitches. This included Dun Cow Reserves in the Herts Intermediate Cup Semi-Final. They’re re-scheduled for 20th April against Cheshunt Corinthians in their hectic month which sees a minimum of eleven games to play.