Hendon advanced into the final of the inaugural Hendon Invitation Cup, sponsored by Triangle Pensions, by defeating Carshalton Athletic. In the final, their opponents would be Farnborough who won the other semi-final 4-2 on penalties after a goalless 90 minutes.

They were made to work hard by their Ryman League South Division opponents, now under the management of Peter Adeyini, who played the full 90 minutes as well. They created the first good chance of the game when Kingsley Aikhionbare broke clear, but he was off hurried into a shot by Arthur Lee and a fired wide.

Gradually, Hendon's midfield began to exert control, but Kezie Ibe and Karl Oliyide were both slightly awry with final passes to their striking partner. However, both Keagan Cole and Spencer McCall enjoyed more success in forays from midfield, and they went close with strikes at goal.

Just before the half-hour mark, Hendon took the lead. McCall worked himself into space and when the ball came to him, he made no mistake with his low shot.

Almost immediately, Aikhionbare had a great chance to equalise, but Tyler McCarthy made an acrobatic save to keep out his shot. And, just before half-time, Adeyini struck the goal-frame with an angled drive.

With none of the team expected to be in the starting line-up for the Sunday match, the Greens started the second half with the same 11 which kicked-off. In fact the first two of their seven changes came almost midway through the period.

By this time, Hendon had doubled their advantage, Oliyide sweeping home a cross with a first-time strike. Although the second goal rather knocked the stuffing out of the Robins, it was not all plain sailing for them.

Aikhionbare showed good strength in muscling his way past a defender before firing off a shot. McCartney, however, was once again equal to the effort and produced another good save.

The burning heat of the afternoon ensured the pace of the game slowed down during the second half. Carshalton continued to probe for a way through, passing the ball well, but Hendon's solid organisation ensured that any attacks were kept at arm's length.