Express & Star

Rushall’s second trip to the south Chilterns in three days proved a tall order against the basement team fighting for their lives.

Manager Paul Holleran had warned his team of the danger Berkhamstead posed.   

And as soon as the third minute Pics keeper Tony Breeden  was called in action turning a vicious drive from Andy Mullins  for a corner.

Rushall’s reply came on nine minutes through their new lively strike force partnership.

 Junior Brown set up Neil Granger  whose cheeky backward header from 10 yards was cleared off the line.

Rushall found it hard going and not as easy as their league placing suggested.

Berkhamsted should have had a penalty when Mullins was tripped in the box but luckily for the visitors  referee Mr Rowley gave a free kick on the edge of the box.

Minutes later Rushall were themselves  awarded a spot kick when their pressure  saw Andy Hughes control with his arm, and top scorer Richard Beale Made no mistake.

In the second half  Rushall was really up against it as Berkhamsted upped the tempo and pressure.

New signing from Eve-sham United James Knott came on for the tireless Brown.

Rushall  once again owed a lot to their back four, who have the division’s lowest goals against. They battled away to keep  out a forceful home side.