The OHAFC 1st XI completed their 2021/22 season as it had begun just over seven months ago: with a five-goal defeat, a result that pretty much sums up the 1s’ season. On that occasion back in early September, there was still room for optimism, with a full calendar stretching ahead and everything to play for. Fast forward to mid-April and the 1s had long since seen their relegation to Division One confirmed, an appalling run of results prior to Christmas unsalvageable despite a string of much-improved performances recently. This final 6-1 defeat to the Old Bradfieldians in Gunnersbury Park sees the Blues end their campaign with two wins and a draw from eighteen games played and an unhealthy 85 goals conceded. A season in Division One may just help the side to regroup, with more friendly opponents lying in wait.

With the Bradfieldians still yet to confirm their place in the Premier Division ahead of next season, under a late surge from the Old Foresters below them, the home side had everything to play for against a Harrow team that travelled with a full complement of fourteen – somewhat ironic given the struggles earlier in the season to get sides out with their status still on the line – but sluggish in attitude.

A poor first half from the visitors saw them concede five, the Bradfieldians putting the game beyond doubt courtesy of some decent finishing from a variety of situations. A couple of the goals owed much to sloppy loss of possession in dangerous areas, another couple to balls over the top that weren’t dealt with. Cyprian Owen Edmunds provided the lone spark of encouragement when he fired in superbly on the half-volley to level at 1-1 moments after the hosts had taken the lead. But the Blues were a side consigned to their fate when Chris Rigler blew for half-time – an all too familiar feeling for the side this season.

The OHAFC did at least finish their season with some signs of life, producing a much improved second half performance that saw them on top for long spells. Several chances to reduce the arrears were missed, Ciaran Jordan hitting the bar late on. The hosts did score a sixth in the closing minutes to rub salt in the wound but by this stage the Blues were numbed to the effects.

Despite another defeat, the side still regrouped later on for a night out and a few end of season awards: it is unlikely there was much solace to be had given the nature of the team’s results, but at least spirits seem to be high. The squad can now enjoy their summer and hopefully return stronger next season when the rigours of Division One football are likely to prove far more to their liking.

A full review of the 1s season will appear on the website later this month.