Michael Richens’ powerful header deep into second half added time ensured St Ives Town would edge a thrilling five-goal contest with Hitchin Town. 

There had been plenty of entertainment at Quattro-Tech Westwood Road on February 4, where Ben Toseland’s near post flick was deflected into the net on 17 minutes to give Ives the lead. 

Hitching levelled this Southern League Premier Division Central clash on 34 minutes thanks to Ashley Hay’s back post corner. 

But Ives were back in front two minutes later when Enoch Andoh rounded the goalkeeper before half-time. 

The opening period had been end to end, Hay striking the crossbar and goalkeeper James Dadge was kept alert to stop a crisp drive from Lewis Barker. 

The Hunts Post: Action from St Ives Town's win over Hitchin Town.Action from St Ives Town's win over Hitchin Town. (Image: Louise Thompson)

Canaries ‘keeper Charlie Horlock did well to keep out Callum Milne’s header, while Jonny Edwards and Tyrone Baker also went close. 

Hitching enjoyed most of the second half possession but were generally restricted to half chances.  

Dadge remained largely untested with Milne recalled in place of the suspended Jordan Williams. 

It was the Ives who carved out the better chances, Andoh spurning two good opportunities and Milne failing to hit the target from close range 15 minutes from time. 

Ives defended resolutely in the second half, only to look like they had thrown away two points when Dadge was caught out by Diogo Freitas-Gouveia's free-kick on 87 minutes. 

But Richens’ late winner from Johnny Herd’s in-swinging corner two minutes into added time was enough to earn St Ives a first win over a top six side this season ahead of four successive away games. 

Ives go to Redditch United on February 11, 3pm. 

St Ives Town: Dadge, Casey, Herd, Richens (C), Milne, Toseland, Andoh (sub Hottor, 90’), Cowling, Edwards, Hickinson (sub Higgs, 62’), Baker (sub Kaziboni, 72’).  

Unused subs: Johnson, Johnston.