Date	Tuesday 4 October 2016
Match	Royston Town v Hitchin Town
Competition	Southern League Cup: First Round
Result	Won 1-0
Attendance	141
Royston Scorers	Castiglione
Crows MoM	Josh Castiglione

As expected, Steve Castle used this League Cup fixture to give some squad members who have not had full games lately some important minutes, resting some regulars to the bench and clubhouse, with one eye on the bigger cup game – the FA Trophy match versus Egham Town on Saturday.

It was clear that Hitchin had taken a similar route with a mixture of regulars and youth throughout their still strong looking line-up.

The match was a competitive cup-tie – won by a solitary goal late in the first half – but not without continued commitment and desire to win from both sides.

The Crows edged the chances on goal all through the game but had no clinical finishing to speak of except the well taken goal on the cusp of the break. They defended resolutely, despite individual lapses of concentration, and secured another pleasing clean sheet.

On 45 minutes a fine through ball by Ryan Towner found a surge forward by Martel Powell who was briefly held up but had presence of mind to retain the ball, look up and spot Josh Castiglione in the box, whom he found with a low firm pass and Castiglione finished well with a first time effort into the inner side netting. 1-0.

The second half was a continuation of midfield embattlement and sporadic half chances at both ends but no clear cut real opportunities to either extend or equalise the scores.

The Crows progress to the next round, leaving Hitchin to continue their good league form and push on for a shout at promotion.

Team:  Welch, Scott-Morriss, Brathwaite (Bradshaw), May, Murray, Bridges Stu, Fehmi (Cohen), Powell, Thomas, Towner (Bridges Sco), Castiglione.

Subs not used – Linsell, Mentis.

 

ROYSTON TOWN		HITCHIN
7	EFFORTS ON TARGET	5
9	EFFORTS OFF TARGET	7
7	FREE KICKS	11
0	BLOCKED SHOTS	7
1	CORNERS	5
1	BOOKINGS	2
0	SENDINGS OFF	0