Berko battle back to reach Shield quarter-final

Charlie Hoskins made his debut in goal for Berko who attacked from the start.

However, a deflected shot from Lewis Barker put the Division One visitors ahead against the run of play. Berko were caught on the break early in the second half as Harry Holland and Anthony James combined well to shoot home.

The two goal lead did not last long. A good passing movement cut open the defence and Dan Weeks came forward to sweep the ball home.

Ashley Lewis came on and from one of his crosses George Carbery nearly scored at the back post.

Ikem Odeh missed from close range as Berko pressed. They thought they should have had a penalty when the ball ricocheted off a defender’s boot up to his hand but play was waved on. Ed Canham came forward to net the equaliser with a low shot when Connor Deadman’s cross was nodded into his path.

It looked like the game was heading for a penalty shoot-out, but with minutes remaining substitute Adam Mead blasted the ball home from 25 yards out

Berko will be at home to big spending Welwyn Garden City in the quarter final.

Berko should be nearer full strength for the FA Cup tie at Cogenhoe United on Saturday. Carl Tasker, Jim Baldry, Dan Jones and Alex Campana should be available.