Hillstone Dealt Play-Off Blow!

Hillstone’s hopes of a play-off spot were dealt a severe blow on Tuesday evening as Colebourne hung on for a point in Shard End. Stone went into the game knowing that three points were a must if they were to stand any realistic chance of nabbing a play-off berth but though they dominated throughout, it was the same old story this term as they failed to convert their chances. Hillstone however did open the scoring thanks to a goalkeeping clanger but were pegged back when then conceded a sloppy goal from a corner. Despite constant probing thereafter, the Stones could not find a finishing touch and were left frustrated by a stubborn Coles outfit.
Down the road in Erdington, St Barnabas were entertaining Brownmead along with title contenders, Yardley. The Youths were made to work hard for a crucial 1-0 win as they came up against an obstinate St Barnabas side. Yardley struggled to find a way to goal, and when they saw a penalty saved by the St Barnabas ‘keeper, they may well have thought that it was going to be one of those nights. However, Yardley were persistent and their positivity was rewarded with a second half winner.
And in the other fixture, Brownmead ended a six-game losing run by defeating their hosts, 2-0.
Yardley now have 14 points from six games played and with five fixtures remaining, have the play-offs well within their sights; they may also yet take the title. Much though will depend on the outcome of next Tuesday's titanic tussle between second-placed Paget and current leaders, Short Heath. Hillstone are now looking for help from other sides if they are to continue their season after half-term and they will also have to win their final game of the season at the end of May against Yardley.