Hampstead again upset many of the critics on Saturday by defeating Redhill, at Claremont-road, by two goals to none. In their three previous Athenian League games Redhill had scored 16 goals, and therefore the fact that they could not add to the number was strong testimony to the strength of Hampstead's defence. S.R. Smith (in goal) played one of his best games since he first appeared on Leyton's ground for Hampstead; F.T. Webb, the old Southall back, was as sound as a rock; and while George Bucci, at left-back, was not quite so sure in his kicking as in the previous match against Kingstonian, he proved a very able deputy for A. Owens, who is still on the injured list. The three halves can rightly claim a good share of the credit. Wardlaw, the oldest player in point of service, if not in years, seemed to have some difficulty in keeping his feet in the early stages, but his work improved as time went on. P.J. Moody compares favourably with any centre-half who has played for the club, and there have been some of high standard: while Freddy Young has demonstrated beyond doubt that while he was of value at inside-right, his proper position is the one he now fillls - right-half. He is on the small size, but stature without ability is of little use. Young is a fine tackler, and is never overawed by the reputation of his opponents.

It was a source of satisfaction to all Hampstead supporters that W.C.H. Neil, the centre-forward, was responsible for both goals, although he will agree that the credit was not entirely due to him. For some weeks he was under a shadow, and realised that he was not doing justice to the side or to himself, but on the last two games he has shown distinct improvement, and no doubt the committee will think it wise not to disturb the present composition unless circumstances force them to do so. Jimmy Smy, the captain, while somewhat less effective than usual in his shooting, kept the side well together, and we believe the players are happy under his leadership. S.J. Moore maintained his form at outside-left, sending across many good centres, but more work than usual fell to the right wing. In no previous match has Sherman been given so many opportunities, and though naturally he did not turn them all to advantage, he has strengthened a weak spot in the team. H.E. Miller, his partner, plied him with many passes and appeared to be more energetic than has been the case in one or two matches.

Redhill brought what is regarded as their strongest side, and on the run of the play did not deserve to be two goals down at the interval, although in the second half, during which no goals were scored, Hampstead were distinctly the better side. The strength of Redhill presumably lay in their forward line, but while much of their midfield play was good, the finishing on many occasions was weak. Had a less capable goalkeeper than S.R. Smith, however, been in goal they would not have gone home pointless. On leaving the ground at the interval Smith was deservedly cheered.

Immediately from the kick off Webb, the Redhill back, badly miskicked, but although the resultant corner was not improved upon, the first goal came at the end of two minutes. Wardlaw, with great judgment, placed the ball to Moore, who, after neat work, sent it across to Neil, who beat Rose. This triumph at so early a stage was received with much cheering.

Not discomfited, Redhill set the pace, mostly on the right wing, and Bucci was severely tested. He was not to blame for conceding corner kicks, his action probably saved goals. Smith was conspicuous for good clearances, mostly from Skinner, but he must have regarded it as a stroke of luck when Barnfather, favourably placed and unmarked, shot a few inches over the bar. Moody was good in defensive work as well as in attack. In a melee in front of goal Smith got his hand injured, but in the light of subsequent events he was not badly hurt. Hampstead's second goal was headed through by Neil from a pass by Sherman, who did well in shaking off the attentions of an opponent, and his cleverness made him a popular figure. Neil was greatly elated at having found the net twice at so early a stage.

From now until half-time the game was played at a fast pace, Redhill having slightly the better of the argument. Smith, their centre-forward, had more than one good opening, but failed to take advantage of them. One of the best shots of the match came from Wilkins, and in tipping this over the bar the Hampstead goalkeeper was seen to conspicuous advantage. At the other end Rose did well to keep out a shot from Sherman, who was finding much work to do. There was no finer half on the field than Goddard, but he was often kept guessing by the clever movements of Miller and Sherman.

Hampstead left the field for a welcome break with a couple of goals in hand, but they had had to fight hard for this lead, and ultimate victory for them was by no means certain.

The second half brought no goals, but territorially play was in Hampstead's favour, Smith, their goalkeeper, having far fewer difficult shots to deal with than in the first portion. For some time Redhill found it difficult to get over the half-way line. Miller was most persistent in his shooting, and some of his efforts were really good. The work of Hampstead at this stage made Redhill look far from being top sawyers. Try as they would, however, the goal could not be penetrated. One of Smith's best clearances was when he was surrounded, but he has the happy knack of keeping cool in dangerous situations, and his effort in punching out among a ruck of players was worth seeing. Smy tried hard, but unsuccessfully, to score, and amusement was caused by his turning a somersault after shooting. Neil went off for a few minutes, and on his return appeared at outside-right, but later he took up his original position. From a pass by Miller, Smy missed a glorious chance, the ball passing just wide of the post; and danger also threatened Redhill when a free kick was taken just outside the penalty line. What is often called a pile-driver was sent in by Smy, but Rose saved by conceding a corner kick. Until the end the game was slightly in Hampstead's favour, but they retired well satisfied with victory by two goals to love.