Hampton & Richmond Borough 0 v 0 Bromley

Ryman Premier

By Patrick Harris

BROMLEY'S makeshift side put in a solid defensive performamce against the league leaders to return from Middlesex with a well-earned point.

The Ravens' squad was so decimated through injury and suspension they only had two substitutes available.

The management team decided to line up in a 3-5-2 formation and it proved to be an inspired tactical move which effectively left five at the back.

Hampton played a fast direct style and had Bromley pinned back from the kick off.

Andy Walker made a good save from Dean Wells who latched on to a low cross and the Beavers went close again when Elliott Godfrey's free kick fizzed wide.

The first half looked more like a 45 minute session of defence versus attack as the Ravens barely crossed the half way line.

Mark Willy headed an effort off the line and Hampton also had a penalty shout turned down as the continuous pressure had Bromley pushed onto the edge of their own box.

The second half began in the same way with Hampton enjoying lengthy spells of possession around Bromley's penalty area but The Ravens defence held out well and the table toppers couldn't find a way through.

Bromley did get a few breaks from their defensive duties as Kevin George's shot sailed over and Nic McDonnell also missed the target.

Rob Paris missed two good chances for Hampton in their final spell of pressure before Bromley's man of the match Adam Locke shot wide from the edge of the box.

In injury time the Beavers had a shout for handball in the penalty area but the referee was un-impressed and Bromley secured a precious point.

Bromley: Walker; Gardner; Henriques; Vines; Willy; Boateng; Drewett; Locke; Awuah; McDonnell; George.

Subs: Marino; Stone.