Golders Green returned to the paths of victory after their Christmas slump, by beating Finchley 2-0 in the return Athenian League game at Claremont Road last Saturday.

The Green were still depleted by injury to players, but welcomed the return of Pat Lynch, who, playing a grand game at right back, kept Tucker well in check. Maloney was at left back, and appeared to find the pace somewhat hot. Topp reverted to right half, where he put up a fine performance, while A. King had a most successful game at centre half; in spite of the tall centre forward, Young, who was opposed to him, he played confidently and strongly. Gallacher completed the middle line, and played a sound, unobtrusive game, showing skill in manipulating the ball, and giving his forwards some good passes.

Fisher, playing his 175th consecutive game for the club, appeared in the unusual role on inside left, but was more effective when he switched with Griffiths, just before half time, and played at centre forward, while Griffiths is undoubtedly at his best as an inside forward, where he has scope for using his natural skill to best advantage.

It was a hard-fought game, and always interesting, though it never rose to great heights. For the most part, it was a matter of good defence against mediocre attacks, both of which missed many openings. The play territorially was fairly even, and Golders Green just about deserved their win in that they seized two of their chances.

There was no score in the first half, though both goalkeepers had made one or two good saves, and a number of chances had gone begging. Finchley opened the second half strongly, and began to force the pace. Foster, a promising youngster, headed over from a free kick by Milne, and Taggart actually netted but was offside.

After 25 minutes' play the Green took the lead. Topp started the movement, putting the ball through to Griffiths, who gave FISHER a perfect pass ; with a burst of speed he succeeded in getting his foot to the ball just in time to beat Parker, and the ball was in the net.

This goal spurred the Green to greater efforts. Griffiths put in a grand shot form King's pass, but the ball swerved just outside the post, with Parker beaten. After half an hour, King gave GRIFFITHS another good pass, and he slipped the ball beautifully in the net well away from Parker's reach.

The Green now held a two-goal lead, and a minute or so later, Parker, who played an excellent game for Finchley, made a magnificent save for a corner, from Griffiths, who shot hard and true when he received the ball from Stroud.

Finchley rallied towards the close, and Tucker went near from a pass by Young, while two corners to the visitors were cleared. The pressure was relieved just before the final whistle blew.