1st Team v London Lions

No. 53   27th April 2013.     Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1
London Lions                 0
Kings Langley                1 (Jimmy Armstrong 84)
Although Lions had already won the title, there was still plenty to play for, as they wanted to break the 100 points barrier and Kings needed a win to be sure of a top six finish. The sun was shining, the pitch immaculate and the home crowd was in party mood, but Kings were to play the role of the unwelcome guest as they took the points in contentious circumstances just before the end. The first half was intriguing as both sides played good fluid football, but for all the neat approach play, both defences looked in control and there was absolutely no incident of note apart from Josh Kennet grazing the top of the cross bar for Lions and Joe Gallagher’s header from a well worked move just over. On 54 minutes Kings introduced Jimmy Armstrong and seven minutes later Adam Hallissey produced a dazzling run through the defence that was halted by Jake Gottleib. It looked to be in the box, but the referee gave a free kick just outside and a second yellow to the defender. Armstrong was beginning to make his presence felt and required Mario Cenolli to produce his first save on 69 minutes and almost turned in a cross from Tom Carter minutes later. Sam Sloma’s rasping shot was well held by Ross Hampton, but as the game entered the last ten minutes, Kings began to turn the screw and exploit the numeric advantage. A well worked move ended with Cenolli making a great save from Ben Long, and Luke Ladyman hitting the post with a header. The defining moment came when Adam Hallissey hooked back a Tom Carter corner and the alert Jimmy Armstrong slotted it home to ensure his place as the Division’s top scorer, while Lions were adamant that the hook back was out of play and received a bout of yellows for their protests. The visitors showed their appreciation of Lions’ achievement at the presentation and then quietly left the party to concentrate on next Saturday’s Cup Final.      Line-up:- (3-5-2);