United FC are disappointed to lose out to Harrow Hill (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

United FC are disappointed to lose out to Harrow Hill

A ONE-NIL defeat on Saturday proved a disappointing result for United as victory would have taken them above Harrow Hill in the Hellenic Division One West table with games in hand.

The pitch was in excellent order after heavy rain during the week and United began well with Gary Probert just shaving the wrong side of a post with a 25- yard drive.

And Graham Robinson forced a good save from the Harrow Hill keeper after hitting an awkward volley from ten yards.

Jon Austin, who played well throughout in midfield, then created a great chance for Robinson who was again thwarted by the custodian's superb save.

With United failing to take their chances, they were duly punished by their hosts five minutes before the break when Woodruffe latched on to a pass and gave Mat Keslake no chance with a well-hit shot.

The Forest side upped their game in the second half, but United were rarely troubled and were always looking for an equaliser.

Phil Scarlett shot just wide on the hour before new signing Jamie Kennedy volleyed just wide from Martin Richings' pass.

With time running out, Clive Messenger was brought on in attack as United pushed forward in numbers.

A smart turn in the area from Messenger gave him a clear sight of goal, but he lifted his shot high over the bar.

Messenger turned provider when he hit a tempting pass into the six-yard box which Graham Robinson managed to get on the end of, only to be denied yet again by the man between the sticks.

United's overall performance was good from and the desire and commitment could not be faulted. It was just a lack of movement and imagination in the final third of the pitch that cost them three points.