MATCH PREVIEW: Hoddesdon 2nd XI vs Watford Town 2nd XI
HPCL Division 4A | Saturday 24 May 2025 | 12:00pm Start | Lowfield, Hoddesdon

#GreenMachine Returns Home Eyeing Third Straight Win

After a gritty back-to-back double that delivered victories over Sandridge and Hatfield and Crusaders, Hoddesdon’s 2nd XI return to fortress Lowfield this Saturday brimming with confidence and momentum. In their way stand a familiar foe — Watford Town 2nd XI, a side packed with attacking options and capable of pulling off big results, despite losing their opening two games of the season. The stakes couldn’t be higher in what already feels like a vital clash in the Division 4A campaign.

Sitting 3rd in the table with 60 points from two wins, Hoddesdon are one of only four unbeaten teams left in the division. However, their grip on the top spots remains precarious with Harpenden 3rd XI, Hitchin 2nd XI, and Northwood Town 1st XI all also boasting 100% records. A third win this weekend could open a gap — and perhaps more importantly, send a message to the rest of the division.

THE STORY SO FAR: Building Something Special
It’s been a dream start for skipper Adrian Lee, whose side has already shown the perfect blend of flair, fight, and flexibility.

Week One vs Sandridge 1st XI – A solid total of 235 was defended thanks to a middle-over squeeze by Freddie Webb and Asif Mohammed, bowling Sandridge out for 204.

Week Two at Hatfield and Crusaders 1st XI – A testing track saw Hoddesdon post a modest 140. But the bowlers, led by Asif Mohammed (4-25) and Charlie Tackley (3-35), blew the hosts away for just 108 to seal a 32-run win.

These victories weren’t just about runs or wickets — they were about intent, commitment, and collective belief. Qualities that will be essential against a hungry Watford side looking to spoil the party at Lowfield.

SATURDAY'S LINEUP: Hoddesdon 2nd XI
Bilal Ahmad
Adrian Lee (c)
Tyrone Mazurura
Phil Stafford
Rocco Cuffaro
Adam Sturdy
Louis Purves (wk)
Asif Mohammed
Olly Maughan
Freddie Webb
Charlie Tackley

This XI offers consistency and flexibility, with the return of Phil Stafford adding class and stability to the middle order, and Adam Sturdy bolstering the depth. The pace-spin bowling mix is intact, while the lower order continues to provide options with the bat.

THE OPPOSITION: Watford Town 2nd XI – Don’t Be Fooled by Their Record
Languishing in 7th place after two defeats, Watford might seem an easy mark on paper — but that would be a mistake. Their two losses came against Harpenden 3rd XI and Hitchin 2nd XI, both in the top four. And crucially, they’ve collected 28 points across those games — showing their ability to fight for bonus points and hang tough even when behind.

Known for their aggressive middle order and nagging seamers, Watford have a habit of striking in clusters with the ball. If their top order clicks, they’re capable of 250+ totals. That makes Saturday’s fixture dangerous for Hoddesdon — especially if complacency creeps in. With two competitive bowling units and plenty of individual flair, Saturday promises another seesaw encounter.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Who Could Make the Difference

Asif Mohammed – Hoddesdon’s Wicket Weapon
The standout bowler so far, Asif’s 4-25 last weekend was a masterclass in line, length, and late movement. His early strikes are becoming crucial to Hoddesdon’s plans — expect him to attack Watford’s top order right away.

Phil Stafford – Mr Reliable Returns
After sitting out last weekend, Stafford returns to shore up the middle order. His 69 against Sandridge proved his ability to dig in and accelerate. With Lowfield likely to offer pace early before flattening out, Stafford could be a match-winner.

Louis Purves – The Safe Hands and Voice Behind the Stumps
Every successful side has a heartbeat behind the timbers — and Purves is exactly that. Safe under pressure, vocal throughout, and the epitome of a dressing room leader, his glovework and game awareness are central to Hoddesdon’s energy in the field.

Rocco Cuffaro – The X-Factor Finisher
Rocco hasn’t yet delivered his trademark fireworks with the bat in 2025 — but when he does, it’s box office stuff. Expect him to bat long and look to counterpunch if early wickets fall.

TACTICAL TAKE: Where the Match Could Be Won or Lost
Opening Stands Are Gold
Hoddesdon’s openers Bilal Ahmad and Adrian Lee have both shown resilience but are yet to put together a 50-run partnership. Against a side like Watford, starting well could shape the innings. Expect Lee to grind it out and Bilal to take on the short ball early.

Bowling to Fields
With Lowfield boundaries always tempting, discipline in the field will be essential. Harcombe’s absence means the team will lean on Tackley and Webb to bowl smart lines with deep square in play.

Middle Overs Pressure
Olly Maughan and Adam Sturdy are likely to play vital holding roles with the ball. If they can dry up runs between overs 15-30, it could force Watford into mistakes and allow Asif and Tackley to pounce at the death.

DIVISION 4A – LEAGUE TABLE (AFTER WEEK 2)

1 Harpenden CC - 3rd XI 2 2 0 60
2 Hitchin CC - 2nd XI 2 2 0 60
3 Hoddesdon CC - 2nd XI 2 2 0 60
4 Northwood Town CC - 1st XI 2 2 0 60
5 Old Haberdashers' CC - 1st XI 2 1 1 42
6 Kings Langley CC - 1st XI 2 1 1 35
7 Watford Town CC - 2nd XI 2 0 2 28

With little separating the top four, a slip-up this weekend could see Hoddesdon tumble — while a third win might place them alone at the summit.

FROM THE CAPTAIN: Adrian Lee Speaks
Ahead of the fixture, Hoddesdon skipper Adrian Lee shared his thoughts:

“We’re proud of our start — two strong wins, two really good team performances. But nobody’s getting ahead of themselves. Watford are always a tricky opponent, and we’ll need to be sharp from the first ball. We’ve got a good squad, a good vibe, and we’re back at home — so we’re excited.”

Lee also praised the team’s depth and unity:

“The energy has been excellent. Whether it’s the top six, the lower order chipping in, or the bowlers all playing their part — everyone’s doing their job. That’s the sign of a strong side.”

THE VERDICT: High Stakes, High Drama Expected
Saturday’s clash at Lowfield has all the makings of a classic — unbeaten hosts with momentum on their side, versus a talented but desperate visiting team still searching for their first win.

Can Hoddesdon’s disciplined bowling and deep batting unit carry them to 3-0? Or will Watford finally click and shock the league leaders?

One thing’s for sure: Lowfield will be the place to be this Saturday.

#GreenMachine