SKEW BRIDGE put aside their recent league form to push Rothamsted all the way, before finally going down 3-2.

The Bridge were 3-0 down at half time, having been beaten by a crisp header and two low shots that left keeper Paul Lacatos helpless. The score slightly flattered Rothamsted, as Bridge were well in the game and struggling only with the final ball to striker Mark Bedell.

A change at half time improved matters with Lee Brown joining Bedell up front and Dave Horslen returning to the defence, where he had time to exercise his passing skills.

With Dan Rhodes and Neil Montgomery wresting control of midfield from the home side, it was no surprise when the Skew pulled a goal back through the tireless Giles Ricket.

Sensing a comeback, the Skew pushed forward and although they were nearly caught on the break, Lacatos pulled off two great saves to keep the game alive. With Clive Pinder and Paul Hedger supporting the attack, a second duly arrived through Lee Brown after good work from Glenn Norris.

With the seconds ticking away, the visitors thought they had completed the comeback when a wicked Norris cross created an own goal but, as the ball was passing the keeper, the referee blew for full time.

November 6, 2001 10:30