Royals came away with the 3 points today, but it was far from a polished performance and their opponents Baschurch can feel bitterly disappointed that they did not get at least a point from the game.

Royals were without Leech and Watts, neither of whom were available for selection and started the game in their favoured 4-5-1 formation. After just 5 minutes they took the lead through Hearle, after a good move resulted in a cross being sent over towards the far post. Hearle ran in from the right and was able to place his shot in the corner of the goal. A well crafted goal, with an impressive buildup.

Thereafter Baschurch started getting stronger. They bossed the midfield and Royals missed the strength of Leech. They were unable to gain possession of the ball, and when they did, they gave it away cheaply. Baschurch seemed to be hungrier and were first to the loose balls more often than not.

Royals defended well though, for the best part of the first half, with Keugler saving well on 2 occasions and Green heading off the line. It looked as if they might hang on to their lead until half time.

However 3 minutes before the break, the continued pressure from Baschurch paid dividends and they equalised, after the Royals defence were caught out of position, leaving a striker free to fire home past the diving Keugler.

The second half started much the same, with more pressure from Baschurch. Royals defended resolutely though and tried to pass the ball around patiently. Both teams were playing good football and it meant an exciting match for the spectators.

Ten minutes into the second half Hearle nearly made is 2-1 after he broke free and ran on to a Moffat through ball. Striking from the edge of the area, he saw his shot ricochet against the cross bar and go out for a goal kick.

Then on 18 minutes Lewis got the breakthrough and did make it 2-1, bravely heading home a Hearle cross from close range.

Still Royals' opponents battled on and the game could have gone either way. However with 10 minutes remaining, Lewis was on target again, this time winning the ball on the edge of the area and beating the defender, he was able to shoot just far enough away from the outstretched keeper to make it 3-1.

Not the best of performances from the Royals, but 3 points won, against one of the best footballing sides they have come up against this season so far.

Team: Keugler, Agnew, Green, Al Houbani, Smith, Hearle, Moffat, Miles (Fielding 30), Weynberg, Baker, Lewis