Frank Murphy named two new signings in the starting line up at the Recreation Ground, Paul Scott, a striker from Whyteleafe, and Warren Kelly, a central defender from St Albans City who has also played for Aylesbury United this season.

Aldershot started brightly, and looked dangerous, particularly Ian Hathaway on the right wing and both Gary Abbott and Grant Payne caused the Dons defence a number of problems.

Hendon had a couple of breaks in the opening period, and Scott showed some good touches. It however looked inevitable that Aldershot would score, but not before Abbott sent a shot over the bar when it looked easier to score.

In the 22nd minute, Aldershot finally broke the deadlock, Abbott beating the challenge from Gary Fitzgerald before sending the ball over Gary McCann into the net.

Hendon began to get back into the match, and both Paul Scott and Davis Haule won most of the balls in the air and also held the ball up well. Paul Whitmarsh then shot just wide from an acute angle, shortly before some good work from Haule and John-Simon White gave him the chance to pop the ball over Andy Pape and into the net for the equaliser.

Before the end of the half Freddie Hyatt had two shots go just wide, chances which may have put the match out of reach of Aldershot. There was only one other noteable incident, Ian Hathaway appearing to fall awkwardly midway through the half, forcing Aldershot into an early substitution.

The second half began much like the first, with Aldershot enjoying most of the possession. They then regained the lead with a fortunate goal after about 10 minutes when a shot was deflected off a Hendon defender, and Gary McCann was unable to keep the ball out of the net despite getting a hand on the ball.

Hendon struggled to gain much possession and it always looked possible that Aldershot could score again. However, the introduction of Bontcho Guentchev seemed to spark life into Hendon, and a few chances were created, but despite the Bulgarians introduction, the Aldershot defence stood firm and kept Hendon out.

The best chance for the Dons came with a late corner which was swung in by Hyatt, but after a scramble, the ball bounced clear.

Hendon came away with much credit for a hardworking performance, but were beaten by the better side on the day. Both new players looked promising, Warren Kelly defending solidly, and Paul Scott showing some good touches and holding the ball up well.