This was a predictably close, top of the table encounter. Both teams had periods of dominance during the game, but while Hartshill enjoyed greater possession of the ball, Birmingham created more clear-cut chances. Hartshill took an early lead when a fine passing move helped to create the space needed for a shot on Birmingham's goal. This effort was superbly driven into the bottom corner of the net by Eddie Tromans for his first league goal. Strangely, the Hartshill goal seemed to settle Birmingham down, and they started a period of play where they kept their passing short and safe, ending the first half strongly, but still searching for that elusive goal.
The second half saw Birmingham continue to improve, and before long, their patience was rewarded with a deserved equaliser by Simon Krstic, (his first for the team.) With this, both teams became conscious of conceding again, and consequently the game became stretched as extra players were drafted in to defend. Hartshill once again took the initiative and put together a good period of possession, as both teams came close to adding a second, only to be thwarted by some outstanding goalkeeping and solid defending. The final outcome was a fair reflection of an excellent game, played in an exceptionally good manner, between two strong sides. Credit should also be given to the referee, Brian Webster, for his excellent handling of this important game.
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