Shaun Banham scores the winning goal for Rovers
(photo courtesy of Paul Tebbutt)

Haverhill started their 2007/08 campaign with a good victory over a decent Biggleswade side, Shaun Banham's second half goal proving to be the deciding factor between the two teams.

Home trailist Matt Paynter pulled off some good saves to keep his side in it, Andy Palazon seeing his effort for the hosts going behind off the Biggleswade goalkeeper's legs.

The opening goal came Haverhill's way in the 53rd minute; it all started after a header by Harry Halls from a cross by Banham was fumbled by the goalkeeper, the ball being cleared off the line and eventually going behind for a corner. From the corner, taken by Russell Palmer, Marcus Hunt's header was handled on the post and Hunt stepped up to send the 'keeper the wrong way with his penalty.

Biggleswade were back on equal terms nine minutes later, an excellent save from point blank range by Paynter after a striker was left unmarked being punished when the travellers netted from the rebound.

The winner came after 72 minutes, Ryan Kent spreading the ball wide to Halls; his first time pass across goal allowed Banham to put the ball into the bottom right corner despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to the ball.