A gutsy performance from Harpenden thirds was undone in the final minute against Stevenage seconds after a hotly disputed last minute winner from Stevenage was allowed to stand.

With both side deadlocked and time running out, Stevenage pressed forward and forced a short corner.

From the ball in, the ball rolled harmlessly passed the left upright before hitting a water bottle and bouncing back into play and then being despatched into the net.

Harp's protests were met with a blank look from the umpire who allowed the goal to stand, with no time left for a Harpenden reply.

Earlier, the absences of Martin Dunwoodie and Jon Freedman were countered by the inclusion of Martyn Gill and Andrew Lunn who both played well against the league leaders.

However, Harpenden looked short in attack although Bob Cheek and Richard Poultney both looked dangerous when in possesion of the ball.

Graham Dill did have a shot cleared off the line in the first half although the resultant short corner was easily cleared a pattern which was to repeat itself throughout the afternoon.

Dill also came close to opening the scoring early in the second half, however, he shot wide after being cleverly set up by Tom Preest.

Although Harpenden can count themselves unlucky to come away with nothing, Stevanage claimed the controversial goal to steal the points.

October 11, 2001 19:13