Long Stratton 2, Hindringham 2HINDRINGHAM manager Phil West named a 4-5-1 formation to compete on a hard, small pitch and Hindringham started well, competing for every ball, showing they can roll their sleeves up and battle.

Long Stratton 2, Hindringham 2

HINDRINGHAM manager Phil West named a 4-5-1 formation to compete on a hard, small pitch and Hindringham started well, competing for every ball, showing they can roll their sleeves up and battle.

Hindringham, when they got the ball down, looked dangerous with Gray's running causing problems. With about 20 minutes gone, after increased pressure, Long Stratton scored at the far post. Later Coslett hit a post as Hindringham pressed. Hindringham fought back, but the killer ball was lacking, something which was put right second half.

Hindringham came out a different side, pinned Long Stratton back, and were first to everything, Coslett and Tuck were biting into the tackle, allowing Hood time and space to create things. From a Hood free-kick, Saunders headed down for Tuck to blast home. Tuck then had another chance which was well saved.

But Hindringham allowed Long Stratton to score again after sloppy play from a corner.

Hindringham pressed the play and Cracknall was coming off his line to good effect, his kicking causing the Long Stratton back four problems. Then Hindringham scored again. Saunders won the tackle, got the ball wide to Walker who crossed and Clipston used his strength against the keeper, Gray blasting in the rebound.

Hindringham had a few half-chances to win, but stood firm for the draw.

Assistant manager Stephen Hood said: “It's a difficult place to come and play football, but we battled well and everyone can be proud of themselves today. They rolled their sleeves up and fought for each other, and we must take this into the next game.”

Next, Sole Bay at home (kick-off 2pm), meet the Elms 1pm.