Bishops Stortford Claim County Cup Glory - Bishops Stortford vs. Oxhey Jets

The stand at The County Ground

On Wednesday night, I made my first visit to The Hertfordshire FA's county ground in Letchworth for the Senior Cup Final between Bishops Stortford and Oxhey Jets. There is a full two divisions between the two sides with Stortford in the Blue Square North and Oxhey Jets in the Premier Division of the Spartan South Midlands League. However on their route to the final, Oxhey had already beaten Premier Division Champions Royston Town and Ryman League North side Cheshunt. Bishops Stortford have had a difficult season in the Conference North, having to travel as far as Bylth Spartans and Workington. I've visited both club's grounds in the past and enjoyed my day at both venues.     

Front on view of the stand before kick off.

The match kicks off in torrential rain and despite the downpour the pitch still looks in fantastic condition. The first effort on goal is a cross shot which the Oxhey keeper tips over as Stortford begin to get on top. They have another chance when the striker is played clean through but fails to score. Oxhey's first effort goes just wide but things soon take a turn for the worse. The Stortford forward is tripped by the keeper just outside the box and is sent off. Stortford take the lead when the initial free kick is blocked but the second effort is slammed home. Despite this Oxhey continue to play football and create a one on one chance which wasn't taken. Stortford get a second when the replacement keeper makes a save but the rebound is knocked in. Jets give themselves a chance when they score a brilliant goal with a half volley from just outside the box just before half time.

Covered terracing down the far touchline.

Oxhey Jets come out fighting at the start of the second half and almost equalise when an effort from just outside the box is deflected just wide. However, Stortford soon extend their lead with a neat finish. Soon afterwards they make it 4-1 when following a great flick by the number nine the ball is played across the box and put in to the net. Despite being 4-1 down Oxhey Jets continue to fight but Stortford make it five following another quick break. Stortford add another two in the closing stages which is extremely harsh on Oxhey. They get a second goal towards the end to make the final score 7-2.

The firth Stortford goal goes in.

The county ground is located in Letchworth which is a half hour journey from the recently redeveloped Kings Cross. Direct trains leave every half hour. The ground is then about a twenty five minute from the train station. A very short walk from the station is The Hogshead which is quite chainy but does the job. The clubhouse at the County Ground is quite impressive and has pictures of previous county champions on the wall. Finally, congratulations to Karen Browne for producing an excellent programme for the cup final.

The Bishops Stortford player prepares to take a throw in front of his fans