Walden celebrate Andy Boyd's goal

THE dream is still alive. But only just.

Saffron Walden kept in the promotion hunt after a nervy, narrow 7-6 victory over rivals Ford at Newport on Saturday.

Ben Wells scored three of Walden's goals on Saturday

Saffron Walden kept in the promotion hunt after a nervy, narrow victory over rivals Ford at Newport on Saturday.

They played some of their best hockey of the season to go in 4-1 up at the break, and 5-1 up shortly into the second half, but an onslaught of four goals by the visitors to bring the score back to five-apiece brought them back into a game they should never have been in.

However, such is the experience the young Walden side has picked this season that they were composed enough to haul themselves back into a victorious position – and earn the vital three points.

Skipper Andy Boyd said: “We were unbelievable in the first half – the best we’ve played all season – and the score line was closer than the first 35 minutes made out.

“I think we got a little bit cautious after the break and let them back into it. But we were good enough to get ourselves back in front.”

Ben Wells hit a hat-trick, assisted by goals from Boyd, Matt Wells, Chris Boyd and Year 10 student Spencer Hill to move Walden up to fifth in the table with a game in hand over the teams above them.

They now go into a crunch encounter with second-placed Felixstowe on Saturday. Victory would give them a big chance, although they would need to win their remaining games and still be relying on Felixstowe to drop points elsewhere. Defeat would end their bid.

As important as the game is, Boyd believes the season will have been a success whatever way it falls.

“We have picked up a lot of experience this season which will stand us in good stead going forward. It is easy to forget how young this squad is.

“Everyone is enjoying their hockey, maybe because the pressure is off. We looked relaxed and it has made a difference. All we can do is win our games and hope others drop points.”