Beaconsfield Town fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Hertford Town despite creating several promising opportunities and enjoying long spells of possession.

The visitors made a brighter start and created the first chance of the afternoon in the 7th minute when Abdi Mohammed tested Eze Ifekoya, but the Rams' number one kept a close eye on it.

Hertford continued to have the upper hand during the opening 15 minutes before Beaconsfield began to grow into the contest.

In the 16th minute, the Rams fashioned their first real chance. Hill played an excellent ball over the top for Lawrence, who elected to square the ball to Coley rather than shoot. Coley's effort was then blocked behind for a corner.

Beaconsfield continued to show attacking intent and looked the more likely side to break the deadlock as the half progressed.

After 30 minutes, Ford played Lawrence through on goal. The forward cut inside onto his right foot and struck the post with a powerful effort.

Three minutes later, Anderson sprayed a superb pass out to Lawrence on the left wing. His cross found Coley, whose close-range effort was brilliantly saved by Bowler.

Despite Beaconsfield's pressure, Hertford made the breakthrough. Marcus Painter's effort found its way into the net to give the visitors the lead, somewhat against the run of play.

Half-time: Beaconsfield Town 0-1 Hertford Town

The second half began much as the first had ended, with Hertford looking dangerous from set pieces. Barnes delivered an excellent free-kick from the left which was met by Tearle, but his effort crashed against the crossbar and away to safety.

At the other end, Bessasa-Grant broke down the left flank and unleashed a venomous shot across goal, but nobody was able to apply the finishing touch.

Hertford nearly doubled their advantage shortly afterwards when Mendoza struck the crossbar from 25 yards as the visitors searched for a second goal.

Beaconsfield continued to push for an equaliser but were unable to find a breakthrough, and Hertford ultimately held firm to leave Holloways Park with all three points.

Full-time: Beaconsfield Town 0-1 Hertford Town

Next match: home to Potters Bar on Tuesday Night. 7:45 KO.