Chamberlain ends goal drought to fire Berkhamsted into the semis

Sun are top of the SSML Premier Division on goal difference from Berko, and their goalkeeper Ross Hampton pulled out several top drawer saves at the Railway End as Berko dominated the first half and hit the bar.

Ed Canham was adjudged to have pulled down ex-Comrade James Armstrong in the penalty area, however Ben Barnes guessed correctly and dived right to save Ashley Lewis’ spot kick.

Barnes also saved well with his feet to keep out Sun substitute Craig Lynskey in the second half.

Sun got more into the game after the interval, but a double substitution for Berko – bringing on Ashley Morriseey and Dale Turney – gave notice of their intent to win.

The decisive goal duly arrived when BJ Christie laid the ball inside the full-back and Chamberlain ran on to net with a hard, low shot into the corner under Hampton to win the tie with 15 minutes left.

Berko will be at home in the semi-finals to the winners of next week’s tie between Sawbridgeworth Town and London Colney.

On Saturday, the Comrades welcome Leverstock Green to Broadwater in search of more Premier Division points, as they have slipped to third in the league.

Adiel Mannion is likely to miss the game against his old club, but the two sides above Berko are both in FA Vase action so there is a chance for the Comrades to get back to the top with a big win.

Assuming they have no FA Vase replay, second-placed Kings Langley visit Berko in the Challenge Trophy next Tuesday.

Berko’s reserve side are at Biggleswade United on Saturday in the Suburban League North.