Panshanger Lions under 9 are roaring into the next round of the under 9 county cup as Welwyn Garden City’s sole representatives after a fantastic game against the much fancied Tring Tornadoes.

The Lions again had to travel, this time to Tring so an early start was needed both in the travel and in the game, Panshanger Lions did this and quickly settled into the game and started to dominate in a midfield trio of captain Brandon Bex, flanked either side by Joe O’Dell and Charlie Daniels.

The defence was held bravely together by Tyler Owen and Harry Evans and when Tring did get through the defence they were met by a solid Taylor Steer who made some fine saves. Up front the lone marksman Josh Hickton held the ball up magnificently until supported by the rest of the Lions, who in turn attacked the Tring goal on numerous occasions.

The manager then made a triple substitution bringing of Harry Goode in left midfield, and switching Joe O’Dell to the right flank, with Charlie Woolley reverting to his favourite position of central midfield and Chip Monk holding the last line of defence. The Lions went into the interval at half time with a slight advantage over their opposition.

In the second half the game was evenly matched with both teams having numerous chances but its pleasing to say that after some fine finishing the Welwyn Garden club are into the next round of the cup. The Lions number one fan, Pete Warren (who has never missed a game) said he was delighted watching his grandson in goal and the strong togetherness of the Lions.

The Lions next opponents on the 15th January 2012 is at home to either Cheshunt Youth or Park Street Village Youth