It’s back to earth with a bump for Athletic as Hertford take the spoils

Tring went into the game full of confidence after a good run of results but they were dealt a blow after only four minutes with an opportunistic goal from winger Jordan Watson who clipped a clever swerving shot past keeper Matt Evans.

Athletic were still recovering from this early set back when Hertford scored a second goal two minutes later as skipper Louis Rose headed home a corner.

With only six minutes on the clock Athletic were facing a possible hammering, but their young players dug in and six minutes later were unlucky not to pull a goal back when Kieran Turner smacked a shot against the bar.

Tring were struggling to find their usual fluency but managed to reach the break without suffering any further damage.

At the start of the second half Athletic changed to a more attacking formation and they did start to play better but without creating too many clear cut chances.

They were helped when Hertford defender Jack Friend was red carded just past the hour mark, but the visitors were still unable to test the home keeper who was being well protected by his defence.

Athletic were pushing forward and inevitably they were leaving themselves open at the back – Hertford took full advantage in the 78th minute when Watson grabbed his second and his team’s third goal to put the result beyond doubt.