Hertford Town 1–0 Canvey Island

(Toner 20’)

From Hertingfordbury Park

Isthmian North

CANVEY Island lost their first league match since the middle of August as they went down to play-off chasing Hertford Town.

The Gulls had not played a competitive fixture in two weeks but remained top of the division’s form guide.

And they began on the back foot. Ashley Jones was penalised for handballing outside the penalty area, although the subsequent free-kick was sent harmlessly over the crossbar.

Five minutes later it was 1-0. Former Thurrock man Michael Toner climbed highest to power a header beyond the stopper.

George Sykes, fresh from signing a contract at the club, headed wide of the post after a fine cross from Mitch Gilbey.

Canvey were growing into the match and piled on the pressure before the interval.

Frankie Merrifield saw a shot blocked by home goalkeeper Charlie Mann, only for the midfielder to be frustrated by the stopper once again moments later.

And they were to come even closer on the stroke of half-time. Sykes squared for Ryan Charles but his effort crashed off the bar to manager Danny Heale’s disbelief.

Looking to start the second period in the same way they ended the first, George Sykes saw a shot tipped wide by Mann.

The Gulls were well on top heading into the closing stages, although the equaliser still didn’t appear to be forthcoming.

Craddock and Jake Pitty hit the frame of the goal in the final five minutes but it wasn’t to be Canvey’s day.

Canvey Island: Jones, Pitty, Dumas, Craddock, Warren, Sheehan, Merrifield (Melaugh 73’), Collins, Sykes, Gilbey, Charles