BOWMAN ON THE ROAD: Harrowing experience for the Hillians

I am guessing if Ian Chapman never has to lead his BHTFC team out at Earlsmead Stadium Harrow again it would be a moment to soon! On 8th September Hill were beaten one nil by Harrow Fc and again last Saturday suffered the same fate against ground sharers Hendon Fc.
By Colin Bowman
Published 30th Nov 2015, 08:59 BST

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Ian and Geoff at the GroundIan and Geoff at the Ground
Ian and Geoff at the Ground

It felt a bit deja vu to be honest.

As always a generous posse of Hill fans made their way up to North West London. Harrow is quite a long distance out of London a good 20 mins on the top train from Marylebone station. As is customary we stopped for a few beers in some quite hideaway on route.

This time Sponge found the wonderful Kings Arms in Roupell Street, a stones throw from Waterloo Station. The staff were very attentive, the pub very clean and tidy. By around 1.00 pm the place was packed with sports fans ready to go off to their respective matches. The street itself is lined with neat Victorian terrace two bedroom housing each worth over 1 million pounds. At just a 10 min walk to the Houses of Parliament its not surprising that a small property can command such a premium. Feeling a bit up market ourselves Ian and I partook of a couple of Bloody Mary’s !

Stuart and Ian urge the boys onStuart and Ian urge the boys on
Stuart and Ian urge the boys on
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Hendon Fc (in Green) had been struggling of late and are in a relegation dog fight already this season. Perhaps Hill (in Blue) connections were looking for at least a point come kick. The skies laden grey, strong wind and an uneven surface. Winter has certainly settled in for fans up and down the country.

Just like the Harrow game it was the hosts who took an early lead. A bit of a mix up on the left allowed Kezie Ibe a tap in after 18 mins. A collective and audible groan from the away contingent. Unfortunately, that seemed to be enough for Hendon as they closed up shop for the rest of the game. Earlier in the campaign our boys would have found a way back into the contest and perhaps would of come away with all three points. But not at this present time.

Confidence seems low and there was no control of the football. Apart from a mazy run and shot by the ever running Chris Smith Hill ran out of ideas. A Hendon Fc fan summed up the afternoon well ‘Forgettable game. Respect for the lads for showing some true grit and graft. That’s where we are at present, no need for false pre tense’.

Thanks to Hendon Fc for hosting and good luck. As for Hill that’s 2 points from 12 leaving Ian, Tucky, Paul and John with some soul searching to do. They have had a week to prepare for Tonbridge Angels away this Saturday. The Kent team are in great form so it’s going to be a tricky but exciting afternoon to look forward to.

Barmy Army stride up expensive Roupell StreetBarmy Army stride up expensive Roupell Street
Barmy Army stride up expensive Roupell Street

Costs Travel £11, Entrance £10 Sundries £50

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