Captaining his side at Bromley on Saturday, George Bucci was largely responsible for Hampstead's League victory by two goals to none. The first goal was gained at the end of eight minutes by J.G. Spalton, from a pass by L. Porrett, who had received the ball from A.J. Breagan. The second goal, after 15 minutes' play, fell to Bucci from one of his wonder-shots some 20 yards out. The ball passed swiftly an inch or two below the bar, and had G.H. Jowers cleared it would have been a remarkable feat.

The remaining 75 minutes yielded nothing tangible, but we should be doing an injustice to Bromley if we did not say that they deserved a goal or even more. While their shooting at times was atrocious - the same remark applies to Hampstead - they came perilously near meeting with success on several occasions. S.R. Smith, Hampstead's goalkeeper, came out of the ordeal with flying colours, and though his position at the beginning of the season was by no means secure, he has played with remarkable consistency, and has never had a really bad day.

F.H. Dean, the captain, had been selected as a reserve for the Athenian League against the Spartan League, and his place at right-back was filled by A.H. Elwell, who has made periodical appearances in the first team. His ingrained habit of wandering up the field caused some trepidation, but J.W. Richardson, his partner, who again was in fine form, covered him well, and, thanks to Smith, nothing untoward happened. To Elwell's credit it may be said that in several instances he made good clearances.

Another reserve, A.C. Broadis, was introduced at left-half, and there should be no hesitation in playing him again in that position. It is a pity he was not in the first eleven the previous week: there might have been another cup final for Hampstead. Bucci was again a star turn, and with J.W. Bloxham at right-half in fine fettle, the Bromley forwards were faced with a big task.

Two changes were made in Hampstead's attack, V. Rowe and Porrett taking the places of F.P. Evans and H. Knott. Evans had been chosen to play for the Athenian League, but injuries prevented him from turning out. In the case of V. Rowe we can say nothing very favourable. With a good centre-forward Hampstead must have scored several more goals. He often muddled the ball and when he got near goal his shooting was wild. Porrett started very well, but made some bad misses. He appeared to lack confidence, but, if persevered with he would, we think, make good. One thing in his favour is that he is not devoid of pluck. When some forwards are deprived of the ball they make no attempt to recover it. Not so Porrett.

The other forwards did nothing outstanding, and it was indeed fortunate for Hampstead that two goals were scored so early. Had Bromley got the first goal - and they had chances - then we are afraid there would have been another set-back in the League race.

Bromley were without one or two of their best men. They have had by no means a good time during the last few weeks. W.T. Baird (left-back) and G. McLellan (centre-half) were two of their best players. F. Centa (their left-half) is an old Hampstead man.

The fact that Hampstead scored twice within the first 15 minutes without response practically assured them of victory, and the visiting supporters could take up a complacent attitude. But there were many shocks before the end. After the second reverse Bromley played spiritedly, and Smith was kept busy in dealing with corner kicks, several of which were excellently placed. Their forwards were much more conspicuous than Hampstead's, although at times the combination of the visiting side called for praise.

The second half brought success to neither side, thanks to good goalkeeping, particularly on the part of Smith, who, in putting the ball over the bar, appeared to hurt his fingers. Jowers, too, must be commended for many clever saves. On one occasion it looked as though he had crossed the line with the ball, but the fact that a free kick was given against Hampstead indicated that in trying to clear he was fouled.

Some good shots were put in by Spalton and Bloxham, who twice had to leave the pitch for repairs to his shorts.

It is worthy of note that this is but the second League match this season in which Hampstead's defence has not been beaten.