MATCH PREVIEW: HODDESDON 2ND XI VS BROXBOURNE 2ND XI
HPCL Division 4A | Saturday, 2 August 2025 | Lowfield, Hoddesdon

The scene is set for a blockbuster return leg this Saturday as Hoddesdon 2nd XI host Broxbourne 2nd XI at Lowfield in a hotly anticipated local derby that could have a big say in the outcome of the HPCL Division 4A season. Following a sobering defeat in the reverse fixture back in May — when Broxbourne cruised to an eight-wicket victory at Mill Lane — the hosts will be desperate to set the record straight.

Reverse Fixture Recap
On 31 May, Hoddesdon posted 188 all out from 48.5 overs, but a disciplined and powerful Broxbourne chase saw them reach the target with ease, finishing 189/2 in just 32.5 overs. The result laid bare Hoddesdon’s inconsistency with the bat and their inability to capitalise on early chances in the field — shortcomings they will need to correct if they are to challenge one of the league’s most in-form sides.

Form and Standings
Heading into this weekend, Broxbourne 2nd XI sit third in the HPCL Division 4A table on 272 points and remain within striking distance of the top two promotion places, while Hoddesdon are languishing in ninth with just 160 points. Time is running out for the hosts, who desperately need a result to pull away from the drop zone and lift morale heading into the final third of the season.

Hall of Fame Highlights: Broxbourne's Matchwinners
Broxbourne's strength this season has stemmed from the superb form of several standout performers. Josh Goff has emerged as the side’s batting talisman, amassing 371 runs so far, including the team's highest individual score of 88. Goff has also been impactful with the ball, boasting the best economy rate in the squad at a miserly 1.8 runs per over.

Luke Fishburn has set the standard for quick scoring, holding a formidable strike rate of 102.63, which has often helped Broxbourne accelerate in crucial middle overs. On the bowling front, Jack Tumbridge leads the way with 25 wickets, providing the firepower up top, while Tom Hayden's devastating 5/26 stands as the best individual bowling performance of the season for the club.

These players will no doubt be key threats again on Saturday, and Hoddesdon’s ability to neutralise them may well determine the outcome of the contest.

Hoddesdon's Imperative
With just two wins in their last ten league outings, Hoddesdon have found themselves in a perilous position. Ninth in the ten-team table, they now face a tough run-in and cannot afford another slip-up. The side’s inconsistency with the bat has been their Achilles heel all season, with top-order collapses and missed partnerships proving costly.

But derby fixtures have a way of ripping up the formbook. The home side will be banking on the energy of the Lowfield crowd, a bit of local pride, and perhaps a breakout performance or two to reignite their campaign. Fielding discipline and application with the bat will be non-negotiables if they are to upset their high-flying neighbours.

A Word on the Stakes
For Broxbourne, this is a golden chance to solidify their promotion credentials and keep pace with Hitchin and Northwood Town at the top of the table. For Hoddesdon, it's about pride, survival, and proving they belong at this level. The narrative writes itself.

With local bragging rights, vital league points, and contrasting seasonal trajectories all on the line, this is shaping up to be a must-watch encounter.

First ball is scheduled for 12:00pm at Lowfield.

Be there.

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