This game was so typical of recent Hitchin performances as once again they matched their opponents who were above them in the table, created chances but failed to pick up any points. It was the same against Leiston in the FA Cup and Bury and Peterborough Sports in the league. Hitchin have to convert performances into points and find a way to get over the line. This was another game when Hitchin could have gained some reward but it was not to be.

Team news was mixed as Taylor McGregor was out injured but Ciaren Jones was fit to return to the team. Dylan Stitt, Diogo Freitas-Gouveia and Callum Nicolson dropped to the bench with Daniel Stokoe , Charlie Briggs and Owen Brooks starting. New signing Jack Snelus was among the substitutes. Hitchin made a good start and could have been ahead after 45 seconds as Brooks ran down the wing and crossed to Luke Stokoe but from a good position his shot was deflected wide and from the corner Jones headed over. Jason Cowley had an overhead kick go over the bar for Halesowen while Vanylson Silva had two efforts saved by Jack Mason.

Halesowen took the lead with a wonder strike from Silva that gave Mason no chance. This came after 38 minutes and Hitchin were unlucky to be behind although the home side came close through Silva and Cowley before half time. Hitchin started the second half well and a good run from Brooks led to a corner before Luke Stokoe shot wide, Hitchin got the equaliser after 65 minutes and again it was a goal of the season contender as Jamie Breen went on a mazy run from the half way line beating a number of Halesowen defenders before despatching the ball into the corner of the net. Just 5 minutes later Hitchin should have taken the lead as Stitt rounded keeper Dan Platt but then slipped and his shot went just wide.

The game remained fairly even until the 80th minute when Halesowen were awarded a penalty for a foul by Blue Joy. It was a contentious decision as the players had been expecting a free kick to be given for an earlier foul in the incident. Cowley made no mistake with the penalty and despite all the subs being used Hitchin could not find the equaliser.

It is so frustrating to be playing well but not getting the results. Hitchin have to turn things round and Tuesday's game with bottom side Stamford is the opportunity to do so. Small margins are costing Hitchin but they must find a way to get results that match their performances.