After The Cannon's emphatic 7-0 victory last week, they were full of confidence going into this cup tie against Tonwell FC.

The Cannon started brightly, but could not break down the Tonwell defence. Paul Green had a great chance in the first ten minutes, but it was well saved by their keeper.

Then, straight from the goal kick, Tonwell broke down the middle and put the ball into the back of the net for the opener.

The Cannon went for the equaliser in the second half. Rob Pettitt delivered a beautiful cross, which was headed into the net by a Tonwell defender for a bizarre own goal.

The Cannon kept plugging away, with chances falling to Rob Green and Butch Froomes, but Tonwell's keeper pulled off some great saves.

In the second half The Cannon took advantage of their fitness and Matt Gates broke clear and squared the ball to Paul Green, who tapped it in for 2-1.

Tonwell had a few attacks, but the back five of Lee Chandler, James Pettitt, Rob Green, Bashir and Steve Chambers were solid.

A ball fell to Matt Gates, and he cheekily lobbed the keeper from 18 yards for the third.

The Cannon midfield of Phil Blackburne and John Bean won every challenge in the centre of the field. Aaron Murphy came on and had a shot go wide, then Dan Guerra came on for Rob Pettitt and his header was saved by Tonwell's keeper.

Manager Jamie Marlow said: "The whole team played well, on a difficult pitch. We must carry on from this for next week's game."

THE CANNON: Lee Chandler, James Pettitt, Steve Chambers, Phil Blackburne, Rob Green, Bashir, Rob Pettitt, John Dean, Paul Green, Matt Gates, Butch Froomes. Subs: Dan Guerra, Aaron Murphy, Jamie Marlow.

Tonwell FC 1

Cannon FC 3

Herts County Cup

First Round

October 1, 2002 17:00