The best Brocton could offer in this half was a sustained 5 minute spell just before half time when Highgate conceded two corners but on both counts Brocton could not find the final penetration past a solid defence.

The second half started brighter for Highgate who appeared to be winning more of the ball in the centre of the park but Brocton, playing an open game, gave Highgate cause for concern on their quick breaks up field.

It was Highgate’s turn to force consecutive corners with Shelper making good saves, one at the feet of the Highgate forward Brosman where-as Lee Scott at the other end had a chance on 60 minutes when he attempted to chip the Highgate keeper and was very close at the far post.

Highgate were creating chances and were more effective than Brocton in mid-field but the Brocton defence held firm and Andy Harrison had a one on one chance to put Brocton ahead on 64 minutes , but took too much time allowing the keeper to recover and in the following attack James Dyke struck a low shot which skimmed the outside of the post with the Highgate keeper beaten.

Brocton introduced Ben Harrison and Andre Campbell in an effort to win the game but like the first half the play was end to end. Scott, Campbell and Andy Harrison all had further chances but with Brocton pushing forward Highgate launched an attack and scored the only goal of the match through Chris Hayden on 85 minutes from a rebound after Shelper’s initial save. Shelper again came to Brocton’s aid on 87 minutes when Highgate’s late substitute was bearing down on goal but in the final minute Lee Scott had an opportunity to grab Brocton an equaliser with a header but it skimmed of his head and wide of the post.

Brocton 0 v 1 Highgate United