The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has decided to withdraw any geo-blocking in place for all FIH Hockey Pro League matches from 2019 and 2020 on its free video platform www.FIH.live. No login is required and full length matches from the international game are available to stream free.

The same will apply for all FIH Hockey Olympic qualifiers, which were played in October and November last year. This comes in addition to all matches from both 2018 World Cups, men and women, being already available.

Furthermore, FIH is currently producing a number of additional programmes for use by its 32 broadcast partners, reaching 192 countries around the world, so it’s well worth checking out in your free time!

Ladies 1st’s (6) vs. (3) Huddersfield Dragons 1

Slaz ladies 1’s travelled the short distance to local rivals Huddersfield dragons on Saturday hoping to take their winning ways of 2020 into February.

Starting strong, building from the back and creating the overload Slaz gave chances to Coops, Swindon and Field to go 3 up within 15 mins. Dragons then upped their game to keep Slaz from increasing their first half tally and managed to tap home a short corner just before the whistle giving a half time score of 3:1.

With amazing passing and balls through from Field in the middle, The second half saw bagshaw net her second while Coops hit her hat trick. Dragons pulled a couple back but it was never going to be enough.

Final score 6:3 Slaz #another3points

Ladies 2nd’s (0) vs. (4) Colne Valley 1st’s

Slazenger’s Ladies 2s game against Colne Valley on Saturday started off with Colne Valley on the attack. The opposition began strongly, taking shot after shot but Slaz’s defence were just as strong, saving each of their shots. However unfortunately Valley managed to pass the ball around the Slaz’s keeper allowing them to make the score 1-0. Throughout the first half Slazenger had many attempts on goal but there was no luck in scoring a vital equaliser. Leaving the first half’s score to be 1-0. Slazenger started off on the attack with a desire to win however despite having short corner after short corner no one could score the important goal. Colne Valley again started their attack scoring 3 more goals in the second half, one from a penalty flick and the others from quick passes around the keeper. The end score of the game was 4-0 to Colne Valley. Player of the match was Nicole Fillingham.

Ladies 3rd’s (2) vs. (1) Huddersfield 1st’s

Ladies 3rd’s beat Huddersfield 1st’s. Goals came from Ellie McWilliams and Justine Birkett.

Ladies 4th’s
No game

Mens 1 (2) vs. (5) Leeds Adel 2nd’s

Men’s 1st’s lost out to a strong Leeds Adel 2nd’s. Goals came from Ben Stevenson, and Will Gascoigne.

Mens 2nd’s (5) vs. (3) Ben Rhydding 3rd’s

The Men’s 2nds hosted Ben Rhydding 3rd’s on Saturday, coming away with a good 5-3 win. However as with their away fixture, the match showed the very best and the very worst of the teams performance. Slaz went a goal behind early, but pulled 2 back before the break through Keith Leonard and Asad Baig.

The second half was a far better performance from the home side. A further brace of goals from Baig, and a second goal from Leonard sealed the win. However, the team did not have their own way with a well taken penalty corner conversion and a bizarre incident where the goalkeeper levelled his own defender. Another 3 points on their league campaign, however having gifted the opposition 2 goals, on another day it could have been a crucial loss on their league campaign.

Mens 3rd’s (3) vs (1) Boston Spa 2nd’s

Slazs 3s faced Boston spa on cold smokey Saturday as speedy bakery was up in flames. Slaz started off strong with the new signing of Harry buttery who earned his worth and had his pay increased to 3 bags of crips and 3 bags of pork scratchings for scoring another 2 goals and setting up the third for George for a tap in on the post. However the average age of Boston spa being 60 didn’t stop them from scoring a consolation goal ending the game 3-1 to the home side. The captain Simon Taylor also known as speedy sausage came off the pitch with smoke coming off his shoes, not from the fire but from all the running on the pitch

Mens 4th’s (2) vs. (1) Wakefield 6th’s

Slaz mens 4th’s hosted Wakefield 6th’s for the reverse league encounter. The hosts had much of the upper hand from the get-go. However Slaz didn’t have it their own way. The team raced into the lead through an early goal by Daz Buttery. As the game progressed however, Wakefield fought back and equalised before the end of the first half.

The second half was well balanced. Slaz went close through several well worked chances. However, it was Andy Birkett who netted late on to secure the well deserved 3 points.

Mens 5th’s (1) vs. (8) Sheffield University Bankers 6th’s

Keith Stevenson was the hero of the hour scoring the teams consolation goal on a tough encounter in Sheffield. However, given the previous encounter being a double digit loss, keeping the deficit to 7 goals was well worth a pint.

Mens 6th’s (1) vs. (3) Huddersfield Dragons 5th’s

This week our young development team took on a well drilled Huddersfield Dragons team for the third time this season. The home team began the game playing into a very strong wind and were quickly under pressure from the Dragons. Good defence from Dan Bailey and Ollie Leonard and some good saves from keeper Jack Hancock kept the Huddersfield team scoreless in the opening exchanges, but the pressure finally told, going behind to a well taken Huddersfield goal on the 10 minute mark.

The home team finally found their feet, with some good play in midfield from Luke Minchella and player of the match Eleanor Randle, forcing consecutive short corners. Curtis Jones and Owen Coughtrey came close to scoring but the Huddersfield keeper ensured that the away team kept the lead up to half time. An injury to goalkeeper Jack Hancock forced him off the field at half time, with replacement keeper Aidan Coughtrey taking the field for the second half, which saw Slazenger’s starting strongly. Luke Minchella once again directed the attack from midfield, providing some great passes for Alex Pearson and Curtis Jones. Unfortunately, Slaz were unable convert the pressure into goals and were repeatedly caught by the Dragons’ counter attack, which resulted in their second goal on fifty minutes, with some nice passing around the Slaz defence to create a tap in on the back post.

The home team kept working hard with Bobby Brear and Ollie Leonard coming on from the bench to give the team some much needed go forward. Luke Minchella finally broke the Huddersfield defence and finished a great run into the D with a brilliant shot at goal to put Slaz back in the game at 2-1. With fifteen minutes remaining, an exciting finish was in store and Slaz pressed in the opposition half looking for the equaliser. The Huddersfield counter attack was once again the home teams undoing, conceding a third goal with just 10 minutes left to play. The final result was 3-1 to the Dragons, but it was another great game from the young players
in the Slazenger Development team who are improving and gaining experience each week.

Under 14 Boys

The Under 14’s travelled to Adel for the most recent round of the Yorkshire Youth Hockey League. It was a tough round for the Under 14 boys who were ably helped out by U14 girls and U12 Boys. However the results didnt go their way, even though they battled on to the very end!

Under 16 Boys

Rhys Hancock scored a superb hat-trick but it was not enough to beat Hull and earn Slazengers Under-16s progress in the EH Cup.

The Slaz boys had won both of their matches in Halifax in the first stage of the round-robin regional competition before Christmas. But they needed to beat Hull in their final game in Leeds to advance to the next round, due to Hull’s superior goal difference, and lost 6-4 after an exciting contest.

Hancock gave Slaz the lead after nine minutes when he diverted Joe Minchella’s forward pass into the net with a neat reverse-stick flick. But Hull hit back and quickly equalised with a drag flick from a short corner, before two goals late in the first half – one from a run and shot and the other with a second short-corner drag flick – gave them a 3-1 interval advantage.

Slaz started the second half strongly and a quick break led to George Bentley passing for Hancock to dive and steer the ball into the net to make it 3-2. Two more Hull goals – another powerful run and shot, followed by a third drag flick from a short corner – appeared to kill the contest. But Slaz were not done yet and scored the goal of the game when a quick break out of defence ended with Hancock’s reverse-stick shot into the top corner.

Hull responded again with another goal to make it 6-3 but Slaz had the final say when they finally converted one of their own short corners, with Minchella producing an excellent drag flick into the roof of the net.

Mens 1st’s (3) vs. (4) Lindum 2nd’s

The first team were at home to Lincoln last weekend. The game got off to a good start when Tuddenham found the net after 10 minutes, which was surprisingly quick when you consider it’s taken him 2 months to lose it! However this early goal seemed to spur Lincoln on who preceded to score 3 break a way goals in 20 minutes!

The second half saw Slazenger steady things down and begin to play more intelligent (i.e. slower) hockey. This worked a treat allowing both Jackson and, alarmingly, Tuddenham to score again. With the game level at 3 each things looked to be edging Slazengers way.

That was however until a pearl of a reverse stick shot screamed past the ample ears of Loftus’s and into the back of the net with only minutes to go. A bitter pill for the Firsts who played well enough to deserve something out of the game. Final score Slazenger 3 Lincoln 4. Ouch.

Mens 2nd’s (4) vs. (1) Worksop 1st’s

With a loss last week, the encounter with 4th place was the chance to get their capaign back on track. Worksop played a physical game, and attacked hard from the off. As in past games, Slaz matched their opposition’s pace. Unfortunately, unlike last week’s top of the table clash, Slaz matched the slower lathargic pace. Worksop converted a short corner, and went ahead.

Half time was a good chance to regroup. A light hairdryer treatment, and the team came back out in force. Two quickly earned short corners were converted by Asad Baig to rederess the balance. With a cushion, the team began playing like their league position, moving the ball around and opening gaps in the slower home side. A fantastic attacking run from Alex Stacey set up Baig for his third. Quickly following this, linkup play between Ian Hedges and Amir Khalil gave Baig his fourth. All that was needed was for Ben Graham to net a breakaway goal after going one-on-one with the goalkeeper. However, much to the amusement of the team the shot went wide! A good second half performance from the side.

Men’s 3rd’s (3) vs. (4) Leeds 7th’s

After a long 25 days of the transfer market, Chris the 4th team captain looked to finalise of getting riddance of player Harry buttery to the 3rds. Rumours has it an agreement was set for two bags of crips and a bag of pork scratchings. Slaz 3s was fixtured to play Leeds Hockey club at a 10:30 push back. Slaz started off strong with good distribution of the ball in the midfield creating some goal scoring opportunities but could not capitalise on the attempts.

Leeds had a few couple of quick counter attacks and was affective in goal making it 2-0 at the end of half time. Slaz on the back foot put the debut Harry buttery upfront as his conversation rate for the 4s this season so far was impressive. However Leeds responded right back with a scramble within the Slaz’s D and made it 3-0. Leeds in the upper hand with home ground advantage scored a controversial goal making it 4-0.

Slaz determination and integrity saw them creating more chances and secured a goal that was just a tap in for the new striker Harry buttery. Slaz could see a come back in site as Simon Taylor ,preferably known as speedy sausage, made a powerful run with ball into to the opposing D winning a penalty corner. A good fast injection from Alan Perry gave Harry the time to compose himself and buried the ball into the bottom corner making it 4-2. A well executed pass by Mathew smith set up Harry for his hatrick as he took it first time precisely, hitting the post and scored making it 4-3.

The game finished and slaz was unfortunate not to get the win or even a point. Man of the match went to Harry buttery for his performance.

Men’s 4th’s (1) vs. (1) City of York 8th’s

Slazenger hosted table-topping City of York 8th’s in a close faught battle where either side could have taken the points. Both teams had opportunities in a well contested game. Slaz took the lead through a Josh Hujwan strike, and the home side continued to battle for the win. Unfortunately late in the second half, York won a short corner from which they converted to equalise. While both teams battled for the win, they had to settle for a draw.

Men’s 5th’s (P) vs. (P) Chapeltown 4th’s

Game cancelled due to Chapeltown 4ths withdrawing from the league.

Men’s 6th’s (1) vs. (1) Halifax 5th’s

With Halifax having pulled out of the league at the start of the season due to a lack of players, the development team were planning for no game this week. That was until Tuesday evening when we were informed that the Halifax team had reformed and the game was back on. Ironically, the short notice for the away game left the Slazenger team being short of players for this one. Nevertheless, a team was pulled together, with help from the 5th team’s defensive line of Darren “Blocker” Bailey, Karl “The Calf” Ashford and, Ian “Topper” Randle.

Slazenger’s started the game strongly, putting pressure on the Halifax team straight from the push. Some great passing around the defensive line created space on the right hand side for Oliver Ford to take the ball to the edge of the D and put a strong pass across the goal to Owen Coughtrey who coolly slotted the ball into the left hand corner for the opening goal. With only two minutes gone, a big win looked to be on the cards. Halifax had other ideas, bringing on more adult reinforcements and came back strongly. Great defence from Dan bailey and man of the match, keeper Jack Hancock denied Halifax the equaliser, whilst Luke Boxall and Luke Minchella ran the midfield to keep the pressure on the Halifax defenders at the other end, creating scoring chances for Eleanor Randle and Luke Minchella.

The Halifax pressure told towards the end of the first half, with a shot on goal midway inside the D, which beat the Slaz defence to make it all square at the break. In the second half, Slaz brought on their secret weapon, Ian “Topper” Randle, making only his second outfield appearance of his Slazenger career. Sadly it was also his shortest, retiring due to old age after only a few minutes.

The rest of the half was played end to end, with great play from both teams. Solid defence from Darren Bailey, Karl Ashford, Richard Coughtrey and Dene Minchella kept the Halifax attack at bay, whilst Curtis Jones, Luke Minchella and Eleanor Randle kept the Halifax defence busy. The second half ended scoreless, giving a full time score of one all, but this was a competitive game played in a good spirit from both teams and was one of the development team’s best performances of the season. Every player should be proud of this performance. Well done Dev’s!

Ladies 1st’s (5) vs. (1) University of Leeds 2nd’s

The ladies 1’s welcomes Leeds uni to Slaz at the weekend. With the teams level on points but Slaz in front on goal difference (which in itself is a massive improvement on previous seasons🤣) expectation was that this would be a tough tie.

The first half, however saw Slaz take command. After a few missed chances it was Coops who managed to break the deadlock, beating the keeper and slotting the ball into the side netting – stunning the crowd (umpires and team mates) into silence.

Fields “positive feet” gifted captain Tyrell the second soon after.

The students then started to play how they knew they could and began to apply the pressure. The result being a short corner which was fired into the bottom left.

A half time score line left it all to play for. The university coach helped Slaz by getting one of his own sent off for repeatedly ignoring Mr Wood (he should’ve known better). Slaz took complete advantage and took the second half by storm.

Even with a stint with just 9 (mini minch and Coops asking for a couple of minutes off at the same time) goals came courtesy of Tyres’ with a reverse sweep that just managed to find the net and a second stunning deflection into the top corner.

A great call from the back for Field to go route 1 paid off as she tested the new backboards to make it 5.

Credit to Leeds who were hopeful for a consolation goal, continued to battle. The usual half time team talk about “tackling in 2’s” proved a point and denied their striker any chance on goal. Slaz were never going to concede the short corner awarded in the last second as the ball was eventually played wide and past the 5m mark.

Final score 5:1

Thanks go to Mr Wood and Mr Stephenson once again for their wonderful whistleing throughout the 70 minutes + 5 (or was it 7🤣)

Ladies 2nd’s (3) vs. (1) Wakefield Wanderers

Slazenger Ladies 2’s game against Wakefield Wanderers started off with Wakefield on the attack. The opposition had many shots on goal however Slaz’s defence and goal keeper managed to keep them from scoring. With short corner after short corner Slazenger couldn’t manage to score, and with a disallowed goal Slaz were desperate to score. Through a short corner Nicci scored the first goal. However Wakefield responded quickly, scoring an equaliser. Slazenger were on the attack again with excellent passes through midfield to attack, allowing Stacey to score their second goal, leaving the first half 2-1. During the second half Slazenger again had many shots on goal and their perseverance payed off with Mia scoring through an excellent sweep. Strong defence and attack from Slazenger allowed them to dominate the rest of the game. The end score was a well-deserved 3-1 win to Slaz Ladies 2s.

Ladies 3rd’s (3) vs. (3) Otliensians 1st’s

Keeper Lizzie Tunstall saved a penalty flick two minutes from time to earn Slazengers Ladies 3rds a Yorkshire League draw as their Division Four North West match at home to Otliensians 1sts finished 3-3.

Slaz had to overcome a dreadful start as Otliensians scored from a short corner conceded in the first minute. Donna Hall almost equalised straight away with an angled shot just wide, but she did level the scores with a powerful shot from the edge of the D in the 14th minute. Hall then edged Slaz in front in the 29th minute as her shot took a deflection into the net off a defender’s stick, Ellie McWilliams having set up the chance with her persistence.

Unfortunately, Otliensians equalised almost immediately as they broke quickly and took advantage of hesitation in the home defence. McWilliams could have given Slaz an interval lead but her shot was just off target. McWilliams was again close to restoring the lead at the start of the second half but had one shot saved and put the rebound just wide. Slaz were unable to take advantage of a sustained spell of pressure and were punished when Otliensians broke quickly to go 3-2 up.

Linda Stacey shot just wide as Slaz looked to get back on terms, before another Stacey ball towards goal with five minutes remaining found McWilliams and she scored at the second attempt to level things up. It looked as though Otliensians would gain revenge for their 2-1 defeat in the reverse fixture when they were awarded a penalty flick, given for use of a foot to block a shot on the line. But Tunstall came to the rescue with a save to deny the visitors the victory that would have lifted them above fourth-placed Slazengers in the table.

Otliensians’ frustration became evident in the remaining moments as they had a player green-carded for arguing, which was converted to yellow as she continued her protests. Tunstall and McWilliams shared the Slazengers player of the match award.

Ladies 4th’s (1) vs. (3) Leeds University 7th’s

The ladies 4th Team played Leeds University 7th team away this weekend, taking 3 junior players with them.

Slazenger’s started strongly and this week were first to score – pulling Beth Asquith out of defence to play midfield – her first attack down the left hand side, supported by Ruby Farrington-Fawcett, put the Slazenger side out in the lead. Unfortunately, the lead wasn’t to last. The university team fought back and soon equalised the score. Equally matched, both teams tried hard to get in front and with the efforts of Jules Measures and May Bailey up front, Slazenger’s took their chances resulting in 2 short corners before half time but failed to find the net. Keeper Lauren Hattersley held her nerve and managed several superb saves to prevent Leeds scoring, the score at half time remaining 1-1.

The second half continued with an even battle, Ingrid Coughtry’s long balls giving Slazenger their chances and Sara Chilton, Sarah Paverley and Steph Clements working together in defence to deter the Leeds attack. Freja Wilson cleared the balls out of danger to mid-field player Gemma Wroe and the score remained even until the last 15 minutes. In quick succession, Leeds fought through the Slazenger defence and scored twice. The Slazenger Ladies did not give up and Ruby Rodgers found herself in the attacking D with the ball on her stick and to the delight of her team, found the net. With only minutes remaining, time run out for Slazenger’s to equalise – the final score 3-1 to Leeds university. Player vote shared between both goal scorers – Beth Asquith and Ruby Rodgers.

Boys U10 Tournament

Slazenger U10 boys have been training hard in preparation for their tournament at Weetwood on Sunday. They all arrived in good spirits and with the sun in the sky. Unfortunately the rain came in before the first game. But the Slaz team still made a bright start against York. Some strong play from Aleks Thompson on the wing and excellent defence by Rhuben Foster meant Slaz were getting on top of York. This resulted in a great pressure and a cross into the D by Owen Coughtrey was finished cleanly by player of the tournament, Declan Buxton for the winning goal.

The second game was a close game against Airedale. Goalkeeper Francis Richardson kept Slaz in the game with some excellent saves. Jack Sanderson and Leo Meakin-Sheen worked hard in defence to keep a clean sheet. Aleks came close to getting Slaz in the lead. But Slaz were unlucky to concede just before the final whistle.

Leeds were Slaz’s next opponent and they were a very strong team who soon took the lead. Stanley Newbould worked well with Seth Hoole to created some changes, but Slaz were unable to score. Leeds were to score 2 more.

Next Slaz faced Bridlington. The teams were very well matched. Francis was outstanding in goal again, and pulled off some amazing saves. Declan and Stan came close to score but the game ended a no score draw.

The last game of Division 2 for Slaz was against Ben Rhydding. The Slaz boys felt confident to get another win and they played some great attacking hockey. Unfortunately they got caught out on the counter attack and went quickly down 2 goals. Owen Wiper in the midfield with support from Charlie Thomas worked hard to get Slaz back in the game. It was Owen who had a great run and shot on goal. Stan was the quickest to react to the save of the goalkeeper and a nice pass to Seth resulted in a well-earned goal. Ben Rhydding was to score once more before the last whistle of the tournament for the Slaz team.

Men’s 1st’s (2) vs. (3) Rotherham 1st’s
Men’s 1sts travelled to local rivals Rotherham 1st’s for a well contest game. Slazenger were missing centre forward Tuddenham, and so the goal scoring fell to Danny Perry to net 2 goals. However, Rotherham were the stronger team on the day, taking their chances and securing a 3-2 win.

Men’s 2nd’s (1) vs. (3) Kingston Upon Hull 2nd’s
Men’s 2nd’s hosted Hull 2nds for a hotly contested 1st vs. 2nd battle. While Slaz played some of their best hockey of their 2019-20 campaign, they came up short against a stronger opposition.

Slaz worked well from the off; a full warm-up and rousing team talk got them going. The first half was a tense affair; both teams battling for possession, and hitting the other on the counter attack. While it was equal traffic, Slazenger’s work-rate kept Hull out. In the dying minutes of the game, Slaz broke away, and Damo Grieg’s cross was converted by Alex Stacey, to go into the break 1-0.

Unfortunately, the second half, Hull battled back into the game. The strong press Slaz maintained was weakened when James Taylor was hospitalised with a ball to the face. 2 well worked short corners put Hull ahead in short order. The home side continued working, and went close several times. Alex Stacey again oustanding, alongside Ben Graham and Sam Haigh. Unfortunately, as Slaz battled for the equaliser, gaps opened up and Hull were able to seal the game with a final score.

Slaz travel to Worksop looking to secure their 2nd place going into the final stretch of the season.

Men’s 3rd’s
Game cancelled after Mirfield pulled out of the league.

Men’s 4th’s (1) vs. (3) Scarborough 2nd’s
Men’s 4th’s lost 1-3 on the road to Scarborough. Harry Buttery scored the 4th’s only goal.

Men’s 5th’s (1) vs. (5) Brigg 4th’s
Men’s 5th’s suffered a 5-1 defeat to visitors Brigg 4th’s. Missing some key players from last weeks spectacular performance, the team were only able net a single goal in response to Briggs 5 goals.

Men’s 6th’s (1) vs. (2) Ben Rhydding 6th’s
Having already got the better of Ben Rhydding 6 this season, the Dev’s went into this game in confident mood. The sun was shining, which seemed to be a good omen, until we lost the toss and played the first half into the sun. Slazenger’s started the stronger team and had the best of the opening exchanges, with Keith Leonard and Luke Minchella directing the midfield, but Ben Rhydding quickly got into their stride, scoring their first goal after 10 minutes from a short corner that beat the best efforts of keeper Will Parish.

Their second goal followed 5 minutes later following a scramble in the D, with the Slaz defence being slow to respond to the run and pass across the goal from the Ben Rhydding winger. Going two goals behind seemed to spur the Dev’s into life and the home team matched Ben Rhydding for the remainder of the half, with Eleanor Randle and Curtis Jones creating some scoring chances up front, aided by the introduction of Joe Minchella whilst Turner Booth, Elliott Booth, Dan Bailey, Alex Pearson and Ollie Leonard showed strong defence to keep Ben Rhydding at bay. The half time whistle was a welcome relief from the blinding sun and Slaz turned around with the sun at their backs and the advantage.

The second half performance was much improved, with Slaz pushing into the Ben Rhydding half from the restart. Great play from Luke Minchella, Amar Khalil and Harry Ashford made the Ben Rhydding defence work hard, with Slazenger’s opening goal coming in the 50th minute with a trade mark run into the D from player of the match Luke Minchella, followed by a well hit shot to the left corner to beat the keeper. Slaz pushed for the equaliser but couldn’t find the net, with the final score remaining at 2-1. This was another gritty performance from the young development team, who are showing great team spirit and continue to improve each week.

Men’s Veterans (1) vs. (7) Lindum Veterans
Asad Baig was the only goal scorer on the road to Lindum.

Ladies 1st’s (5) vs. (3) Harrogate 2nd’s
Donning the red kit as requested by the home team, who after their defeat in the last meeting suddenly felt that a green/blue colour clash needed to be avoided, Slaz travelled to Harrogate to prove that kit choice would have no impact, that their previous victory was no fluke and that they could in fact take 3 points away from home. Harrogate had forwarned that they had had a “bit of a shake up” within their teams so quite which team would be faced waited to be seen.

Undeterred by the uncertainty and feeling at home in the red Slaz took the game to Harrogate and showed just why they have a strong and unbeaten home run. The now trade mark short corner from mini minch set Rudgy up for the first goal of the game. Wrong footed, a second came shortly after with Field and Coops educating Harrogate on the merits of “playing to the whistle”. Knowing that a 2 goal half time lead had been thrown away on more than 1 occasion this season, captain Tyrell’s half time team talk was once again inspiring.

A break away goal however shortly into the second half gave Harrogate the opportunity to get back into it but this was quickly cancelled out by Coops who left keeper, both teams and the umpire stunned into silence as she put the ball through the keepers feet. On a high, Slaz allowed their standards to slip and Harrogate took advantage, taking the score to 3:3. It would’ve been easy to settle for a point, but the Slaz spirit kicked in. MVP Mini Minch chose to play in 1 shoe for a moment before creaming the ball into the top corner from the back line to put Slaz back in the lead.

The #gingerdiva mounted another #gingerattack sending the ball up the pitch, ultimately leading to the short corner which saw Field striking the ball home for number 5 – pulling the rug from under the gates feet and sealing the victory.

Ladies 2nd’s (0) vs. (3) Harrogate 3rd’s
In Slazenger’s Ladies 2s game against Harrogate started off in Harrogate’s favour with them taking the opportunity to drive into Slaz’s defence. There were excellent saves and clearances from the defence but with so many shots on goals, Harrogate final got the ball past the keeper. Soon after the opposition made quick passes around Slaz allowing them to score their second goal.

Slazenger tried to equalise during short corner after short corner but couldn’t manage to get the ball into the net. Leaving the end score of the first half 2-0. Starting off, Slazenger made excellent pass after pass around the opposition but they still couldn’t manage to score. Harrogate continued strongly attacking Slaz’s defence, despite Slaz’s best efforts Harrogate scored their third and final goal. The final score being 3-0 to Harrogate. Player of the match went to Emily Entwisle in defence.

Ladies 3rd’s (3) vs. (0) Bradford 1st’s
Ladies 3rd’s travelled to Bradford, only to find a frozen pitch. Default win was therefore awarded.

Ladies 4th’s (1) vs. (3) Leeds 6th’s
The ladies 4th team played Leeds 6th team at home this weekend and immediately replicated the start of last weeks game with the away side scoring soon after push back.

Undeterred, the Slazenger ladies regrouped and fought back. Hungry for their second goal, 3rd in the league Leeds continued to attack but with Ingrid Coughtry in defence limiting their chances along with Sara Chilton and Emily Craven, Slazenger’s went on the attack. Junior, Ruby Rogers, playing her first game of ladies hockey, made it hard work for the Leeds defence and May Bailey took her chance on the right hand side, timing a shot on goal perfectly to equalise the score which remained 1-1 to the half time whistle.

The second half saw Leeds turn the pressure on and Slazenger’s found themselves playing a more defensive half. A flurry of shots were well kept by keeper Maisie Royston and a series of short corners didn’t allow for a clear shot on goal but unfortunately Leeds managed to slip past to increase the goal difference 2-1. Leeds 3rd goal came shortly before the final whistle but did not reflect the efforts of Slazenger’s who continued to feed the ball up front but couldn’t get close enough for a chance on goal. A 3-1 loss for the Slazenger ladies. Player – Ruby Rogers.

U10 Girls A Team
Having survived the div 2 standard of hockey in the last tournament, we were back at Weetwood in div 2 for a second time. Feeling that this league would be difficult, especially given our very young squad, having no keeper, and having some injuries to manage.

We started strong, in every game Rosie Mills dominated the midfield, making tackles all over the pitch against opposition literally twice her size! Not phased, she got the ball and distributed well. Millie Brierley worked hard up front, Millie is always hungry to score, her determination, resilience and drive to put the ball in the net meant that we won a couple of our games. Sophie Holland also scored two goals in one game which gave the girls another win!

Lauren Wood made some great runs down the right and was unlucky not to score on a few occasions. Thea Godson was very strong in defence, Thea, having now found her position, is flourishing in the game, she has improved immensely over the season, and is an asset to the team. Kate Eley, also in defence played solid at the back, so much so, the ball rarely reached our keeper. Kate is unassumingly fantastic, she is a team player, she never looks for glory, but instead, she is happy doing her job and keeping the ball out of the danger area! Having no Frances in goal this week, we were eternally grateful for Lorna Godson, who gave up her own opportunity to play outfield for the B team in order to go in goal for the A team. Lorna did exceptionally well.

Finally, Connie Fozzard made her debut with the A team, at first it took her back as the difference in the 5th div to the 2nd div is a big jump. However, Connie’s performance wowed us all! She played on the left wing and with her silky reverse stick skills, she took on many players and crossed the ball into Millie. She also linked well with Rosie, they worked well together to battle for possession back, when it was lost. Connie got player of tournament.

Amelia Sykes was on the sideline having broken her big toe. Her encouragement and support for the team was appreciated. The fact we have youngsters at this age, still prepared to come with the team on a miserable Sunday morning when they can’t play is commendable.

It’s encouraging that the girls are only 8/9 years old, but they take their hockey seriously and even when they are subbed, injured or not having a good game, they are just happy been part of the team. Their maturity and the support from parents in the team is something to be acknowledged.

The biggest achievement of the season was the result, they finished top of the division, meaning promotion. The girls will experience the top league in their age group next tournament, an achievement they have only got because they work as a team. Very proud of them.
Milsy & Sarah.

U10 Girls B Team
This tournament saw us back in familiar territory – Adel.Nerves were high as there were a few changes to our usual line up, we were going to be without some regular starters.Lorna Godsen was on loan to the A team, as they were without their Goal keeper, and Connie Fozzard was making her well earned debut with the A team, and by all accounts she made her mark! Amazing Connie ! On this occasion we welcomed Heidi Wilson who made her debut with the team.The first game saw us deal with nerves and some of the girls started in positions that were new to them but they dug in and gave a good account of themselves. Daisy woodcock debuted in centre mid and showed team spirit in her effort.

It was certainly a tournament of firsts Amelie Satterthwaite made her first appearance in goal. From the first game until the last she made this position her own with several saves in every game. Her confidence grew each match and by the end of the tournament she was a daunting prospect for our competitors with her presence in the box. Her amazing debut earned her the player of the tournament and we could not be prouder of how she owned this role. A real natural !!Georgia Harker played in the right wing and Tilly Wiper on the left. Both marked their opponents with a dogged determination which saw both girls make some impressive tackles and disrupted the flow of play when we needed it most.

Tilly’s confidence at stopping the ball and tackling is notably improving given that some of her opponents towered above her, this did not appear to deter her in the slightest which was great to see!Heidis first appearance as a B team player must have been daunting but she did not let it show, she slotted in brilliantly on the wing and her confidence grew with each match. By the end of the tournament she was a presence on the left and was getting plenty of tackles in and made a really important clearance in the last game which denied another scoring opportunity for our opponents.By the penultimate match the girls had settled. Daisy back in defence with Matilda Mills.

This is a solid pairing. Matilda was very persistent in defence and showed some real quality. Positions were re jigged with Evie Barass moving to play centre forward and Beth Buckley taking up the centre mid position. Beth took to this position with ease and was more than happy to take ownership and keep her team mates on their toes with her encouraging calls she found plenty of space and her speed and quick thinking got the ball past our opponents defence. Evie made a brilliant run and as cool as you like slotted the ball home for Slazengers only goal of the day and Evie’s first Goal !! (Of many we are sure ) Well done Evie !In conclusion it was a valiant team performance, We could not be prouder of the girls they keep their heads up and played with an enthusiasm that warrants respect. We may not have won a match but the application and determination they showed secures our place in this division for the next tournament……Bring it on!

Mens 1st’s (2) vs (2) Kingston-Upon-Hull 1st’s

One of those two game weekends that the Mens Firsts thrive on last weekend. Saturday saw the firsts take on Hull, this time without the assistance of their umpires (although not for the lack of trying). It was a hard fort physical encounter, Slazengers were also missing several key athletes. However the strength and quality of the First Team’s youth stood out over the nonsense as Slazenger battled to take a point with a 2 – 2 draw. Richard Tuddenham netted a short corner to grab Slazengers first. With pressure on from the high tempo slazenger strikers, a defensive error allowed Ben Jackson to capitalise and net a second. Hull were equally strong however and took 2 well taken opportunities to leave it 2 all at full time, with Slaz taking a share of the points from the league leaders

Men’s 1st’s (0) vs. (3) Wakefield 2nd’s

Sunday was a rearranged fixture against Wakefield’s First/Second Team. Slazenger got off to a poor start as two defensive errors gifted Wakefield two early goals. Slazenger did manage to pull a goal back through a Tuddenham short corner however this was subsequently disallowed as the Wakefield umpire on the halfway line wanted to protect Wakefield’s clean sheet. Slazenger kept battling to the end but truth be told the Wakefield side was too strong, they put a 3rd goal past Loftus in the second half to put the game out of reach.    

Mens 2nds (6) vs. (1) Chapeltown 2nd’s

Slazenger travelled out to an early 11:30am push at Chapeltown, looking to keep their good run of form going, and wondering how much damage the Christmas break had wrought. With a strong lineup, only missing Flu- infested Dodge, the team set t work against the home side. 
The game demonstrated very much the best and worst of the 2nds performance this season. The first half was well of their usual pace, and Chapeltown were more than happy to sit 11 men behind the ball and trying to hit Slaz on the counter-attack. An early short corner conversion from Damo Greig settles nerves, with Alex Stacey taking a second goal before the half time.

It was clear in the second half that Slaz had pulled their socks up. Asad Baig netted 2 goals in customary exuberant style and Greig netted a second. The best was saved for last however. A visionary through ball pass from Sam Haigh found Alex Stacey, who beat the last defender, wrong-footed the goalie and put the ball away to wrap up the game.

Slaz now sit 9 points clear in 2nd place, and will face promotion rivals Kingston-upon-hull 2nds on Saturday.

Mens 3rd’s (0) vs. (7) Barnsley 1st’s

Barnsley took the push back and started the game with high intensity rewarded with an early goal. This was well executed, one on one with the Slazenger’s goal keeper with a composed hit into the netting. Slazenger’s didn’t let their heads drop and started to apply the pressure. Slazenger’s generated chances in the attacking D. Andy Fisher fired some great balls towards the back post but unfortunately the final touches were lacking on the day.

Barnsley caught out Slazenger’s on a quick counter attack and eventually scored their second. Slazenger’s kept the pressure high, Max Godley’s skill generated more chances leading into the D but again the team couldn’t beat the resilient Barnsley keeper. Slazenger’s came under additional pressure when a series of loose tackles resulting in a yellow card and forced the away team down to 10 players.

By the end of the first half Barnsley managed to score two more good goals making it 4-0 going into the break.  Both teams started the second half strong and Slazenger’s won another short corner but still couldn’t find the net. Slazenger’s had some good chances with Scott, Tim and Matthew trying their best up front to find break the deadlock. Tommy moved the ball out in to the wide area where Matthew picked it up in the outside channel. After beating a few players, entered the D winning a short corner. The shot was saved by the Barnsley keeper, the ball was kept alive by the defence with a quick break resulting in a penalty corner at the other end. The Barnsley pressure continued throughout the second half with a final result of 7-0 to the home team.

Mens 4ths – No Game

Mens 5ths (1) vs. (5) Sheffield Hallam 7th’s

The home team managed to sustain their losing streak with ease on Saturday. Expectations were high as the home side welcomed ex first team star Bendover Garside into their ranks after a 15 year injury lay off. Hopes were raised further as the new boy took off on a warm up run before the game started, oblivious at the looks of astonishment on his team mates faces who had never witnessed such idiocy before. These looks changed to knowing smirks as he returned red faced and panting, green shirt stained dark with sweat 2 minutes later. He would fit right in.

Notable moments from the game included Blocker Bailey’s fantastic run and shot on goal, unfortunately at the wrong end. Paul Johnson (Pyjamas) showed him which way he should shoot and scored a 35 metre thunderbolt. And to cap it all young Josh upset at only being 4 goals down managed to superbly head in a wide Hallam shot into the net only for the umpires to disallow his effort.

Brigg away next week, we can’t wait as Paul Custard’s Nanna lives on the way and we are invited in for a pre match cup of tea and a bun. M.O.M. Topper the Stopper, fantastic new haircut. C.O.M. Bendover Garside, warm up run, fell over and came off injured after 10 minutes not to be seen again until the bar

Mens 6th’s (1) vs. (2) Airedale 3rd’s

Men’s 6th’s lost 2-1 on the road to Airedale. Luke Minchella scored Slazengers goal.

Ladies 1st’s (6) vs. (0) Halifax 2nd’s 
The ladies 1’s welcomed Halifax 2’s to Slaz on Saturday thanking their lucky stars that the fixtures had fallen this way and they didn’t have to suffer gale force winds at the top of the Halifax hill.

With an unbeaten home run to protect, and having gifted Halifax the points at their last meet Slaz started strong – pressing hard maintaining the majority of the possession. Defensively the team were in control and kept Halifax from any real attack on the Slaz goal.  It took 2 stunning short corner routines to break the Halifax defence and put Slaz 2:0 up at half time. The first saw Katie Minchellas deceive all but Jess Rudge she was in the right place to deflect the first in, and the second sent the ball to Captain Tyrrell who had clearly been practicing her 3D skills.

Knowing that last time they had lost the 2:0 half time lead to let Halifax take a 4:2 win Slaz stepped it up a notch in the second half. Field chose the role of distributor selflessly setting up her team mates and created wave after wave in the D. Rudgy netted the 1st of the second half and when the ginger attacked a quick ball sent into the D lead to the 2nd from Coops.  Number 3 came courtesy of Ni.  When Field sent the ball 75m up to MVP Rudgy, it was left to her to beat 2 defenders and the keeper to come face to face with an open goal – she did not disappoint and claimed her hat trick – proving that reaching her first quarter century would not be slowing her down

The final minutes were tense with Gk not wanting to lose a clean sheet – 2 last minute short corners were cleared off the line, to the disappointment of the visitors.

#tsunami #gingerattack

Special thanks go to Woody and Keith for officiating the game

Ladies 2nd’s
No Game

Ladies 3rds (4) vs. (1) Halifax 4th’s
This was the first match back after the festivities and Slaz were playing the team directly above them in the league table, Halifax having taken the home win last time the teams met.. it started with end to end hockey, with missed chances from both teams, Lizzie Tunstall, having to make a number of saves, but Slaz became more settled and secured their first short corner. From a set plan, Justine Birkett  stopped the ball at the top of the D, passed to Caro Schofield on the right who belted it towards the goal line, where Donna Hall just missed out on converting the first goal.  The next short corner, was a direct strike from Linda Stacey banging the back board to give Slaz the opening goal.

There was some great play from Slaz, with excellent distribution from the defence, taking advantage of switching play, especially between Jess Lloyd and Emma Eley at the back, through to EmIly Chason Linda and Justine, who dominated the midfield.. Balls were passed wide to the wingers, Caitlyn and Ellie who made some great runs and chances.  However, Halifax broke free in open play, and equalised the score., Slaz then secured another short corner, bang on half time, and with Helen Ramshaw on the D making a great shout for the pass from Linda, she hit it cleanly and netted Slaz’s 2nd goal and the first in defender H’s career.

Slaz knew that Halifax would come out strong at half time, but after a great team talk and some jelly babies Slaz continued with some great passing and movement off the ball. Slaz were on the attack, with Caitlyn, using her speed and skill up the right wing, passing to Caro, who drew the keeper, to pass to Donna whose first strike was stopped by the keeper, but Donna kept at it, trying to lift the ball into the back of the net only to be denied in the end by a further 2 defenders.

Slaz continued their attack, starting from the back, through midfield, where Justine made some great runs into the D, and striking at goal.  Likewise, Ellie narrowly missed out by literally “flying” towards the left hand post, and Sarah Ritchey nearly had a nose bleed, as she swiftly went past a number of defenders to the attacking back line.

Slaz knew a third goal was in sight, and from a cracking free hit  by Em C on the 23 yard line, into the D, Caro converted into the roof of the net to make the score 3-1.  Another attack, and a great pass from Donna, allowed Caro to make it 4-1.  Halifax kept on battling though but the Slaz defence continued to deny them.  They also hit the back of the net from a short corner, not the backboard, so the goal was disallowed.

A great team performance, and player of the match was a close one, with Em C clinching it with 3 votes, Justine, Sarah and Linda on 2 votes each, but a special mention to Donna, who normally plays at the back, but nailed the left half and left wing positions.

Ladies 4th’s (2) vs. (1) Halifax 5th’s

The ladies 4th team travelled to play Halifax 5th team this week. The weather came as no surprise, on the top of a hill, the second half in particular saw the ladies get a drenching.

Halifax started strong, within minutes, scoring their first (and only) goal.
However, with almost a full game in front of them, the Slazenger ladies just got on with it and soon proved that that wasn’t a sign of things to come. The youthful and energetic Emily Craven, Freja Wilson and Hannah Tindall-Miller put in some real effort in challenging the Halifax attacks pushing the ball through to Lyn Wood and Josie Hughes who both had their chances. Junior, May Bailey, playing her first game of ladies hockey owned the right hand side, quickly learning how to stop a powerful Ingrid Coughtry hit out. It was only a matter of time until Slazenger’s equalised – Julie Bailey sending the ball in from the right and Josie Hughes knocking it in.

1-1 at half time, the Slazenger side knew they needed to keep the pressure on and the ladies did not disappoint. Keeper, Maisie Royston held her cool, saving each shot on goal and with Sarah Paveley getting in with the low tackle and Ingrid Coughtry sending it out, Slazenger’s fought hard to avoid conceding another goal. Gemma Wroe worked perfectly in mid-field adding a further barrier to Halifax getting through and Jules Measures worked tirelessly to get the ball in the attacking D. With 10 minutes to go (and the rain really coming down) captain Julie Bailey returned to the pitch from subbing walking straight into the path of the ball which she collected, took into the D, managing to get it round the keeper who was out and on her knees – to score the winning goal! A really good game of hockey by the Ladies 4th team.

Player May Bailey

The following statement has been issued from England Hockey about the COVID-19 virus:

Community hockey

Community hockey will continue to take place unless we are advised otherwise by government, and we will continue to update the Hockey Family on the situation. Please check with your local league if you are unsure if the game is going to take place. We would encourage all players to follow the widely available guidance of public health with regards to people maintaining good hygiene to avoid spreading of the Covid-19 virus.

In a hockey context, we would advise clubs and other hockey venues to ensure washing facilities have appropriate provision of hygiene products and urge players to follow the public health guidance in environments where they are in close proximity to others. If any players, officials or coaches are feeling unwell, please follow the government’s advice to self-isolate and therefore do not take part in hockey-related activities. We also recommend our more elderly players and officials consider whether they should take part in hockey activity.

All players and officials are responsible for their own safety equipment (goalkeeping kit, facemasks, mouth guards, whistles, shin pads etc) and we would encourage everyone to ensure they are clean and not shared amongst team-mates.

Instead of the traditional handshake at the start and end of the game, we are encouraging players to tap sticks: https://twitter.com/Xenioshockey/status/1235819830562832384. A warm smile and thanks of appreciation to officials may be more appropriate at this current time.

England Hockey AGM – Tuesday 17 March

The AGM will take place as planned unless circumstances change. The meeting at Bisham Abbey begins at 7:30pm. If you are uncomfortable attending in the circumstances then duly authorised representatives are advised that you can instruct a proxy to cast your votes until 7:30pm on Sunday 15 March. Please click here for more information.

FIH Hockey Pro League & England Hockey domestic Finals

England Hockey is continuing to monitor government advice in relation to the hosting of events. At this juncture, there are no changes to our advertised programme. We will keep participants, ticket buyers and other stakeholders informed if this position changes.

International teams’ tour to South Africa

The GB men’s and women’s squads were both due to travel to South Africa on Sat 13 Mar for warm weather training camps (with match play for the women) as part of their Tokyo preparations. After due consideration, it has been concluded that this is not in the best interest of players and staff, and they will not be travelling. With no international programme activity over the weekend of 13 and 14 Mar, players are available for selection for the final Men’s and Investec Women’s Hockey League matches of the season.

England Hockey Offices

England Hockey offices remain open for business. In the event the situation escalates and we need to close the offices, we are confident we have the capability to continue to provide services to our customers, through home working and mobile applications.

Men’s 1st’s (4) vs. (1) Harrogate 2nd’s

Men’s firsts took on Harrogate 2nd’s on saturday. Seperated by a single league position, it looked to be a close encounter. Slaz took the 3 points, with a 4-1 victory over the visitors. Goals ame from James and Mark Swinden, Ben Jackson and a rare goal from Paul Wiper. Harry Buttery made a strong impression in his guest appearance.

Men’s 2nd’s (6) vs. (4) Wakefield 4th’s

Slaz made the very short journey to Wakefield for the first local derby in a few seasons. In what could only be described as a “good game for the neutral”, with a well battled game, played in the best of spirits; Slazenger came away with 6-4 victory from a 10 goal game!

The visitors started the quickest, striking first through Alex Stacey, followed by a brace from Asad Baig; a fantastic penalty corner flick and a proposterous diving reverse strike. However, it was clear Captain Green didnt think the team were working hard enough, as he passed the ball to Wakefield’s centre forward for him to net. Another defensive mix-up put Wakefield within striking distance.

Slaz continued to work back into the game. Amir Khalil won a short corner for Baig to convert for his third. However Green was clearly unimpressed and let another goal in at the back post to keep Wakefield in it; 4-3 slaz. However, the game was far from over. Wakefield continued to battle hard and were rewarded with a 4th goal. However, two rapid breaks from the Slazenger side saw Baig selflessly square the ball past the keeper; firstly for Sam Haigh to convert, and secondly for Ben Graham to score; Final Score 6-4 Slazenger.

Men’s 3rd’s (0) vs. (3) Leeds Adel 4th’s

After a disappointing run of loses the Slazenger men’s thirds team needed a win against Leeds Adel’s men’s 4th team. A positive start from the slaz bunch who came out hard and played well. However, after some lucky breaks and some smart passing Adel scored 2 before the half time whistle went. leaving the score at 2-0 Adel at the break. After a constructive team talk, Slazenger came out will fresh legs looking for an equaliser, but after the first couple of minutes Adel took another goal from Slazenger.

After a period of good possession from the home side, a counterattack from the opposition split the green defence leaving Aidan Coughtry and the visitor’s striker 1v1. a heroic save from the Slazenger keeper kept the score line at 2-0 and the Adel player injured. As the Slazenger side began to find their feet – another goal came from the guests. But slaz played the game out with their heads held high. The game finished 3-0 Leeds Adel.

Men’s 4th’s (4) vs. (1) Driffield 3rd’s

It was uncertain if Driffield would make an appearance for the game as they had only been to one away match so far this season, however, it was positive to see that they made the journey for a damp and dismal 16:30 pushback. Normally as the scribe of the 4s match reports I would take pleasure in commenting on the detailed nature of the game and indeed there were many excellent moments and displays of hockey prowess; sadly this would also need to be punctuated with other aspects which are perhaps better left unspoken and forgotten.

In summary, the final result was a 4 -1 win to Slaz, though in some respects it was felt to be a bittersweet victory, it does however see Slaz 4s take second place overall in the div 5 North. Goals from Pete Gunning, Andy Birkett, Matt Smith and Damian Greig Man of the match went to Matt Smith for a superb effort throughout the game and many of us wondering if he moonlights on the side as The Flash. A final honourable mention in dispatches for 4s regular Harry Buttery, who this week stepped up to play for the 1 st Team and demonstrated a cool head, solid play and in the heat of battle almost netted himself a reverse stick goal; suffice to say, in this writers opinion, he did not look out of place.

Men’s 5th’s (1) vs. (4) Sheffield Hallam 7th’s

Dark and sinister forces seem to be evident again at the 5ths game away at Hallam.Less then 12 months after Young Tony the Foot Walker had been fingered as the mastermind behind the floodlight betting scam, his influence seemed to prevail over this match. Suspicion was aroused when last week, with a couple of his old defensive partners missing, the fives had managed to win a game scoring 7. Slazenger’s odds had shortened, Hallam who fielded a team average age of 76 odds had lengthened.

This suspicion grew when the team sheet was revealed by Son of Topper (also under YTTF influence last year) and second team scoring sensation Scoopy Doo Stacey jnr was starting on the bench, then only to come on with defensive duties, banned from crossing the halfway line. Slaz started brightly, enjoyed most possession and spent long periods pressing the Hallam goal. However after 20 mins, a shadowy figure, in turned up collar, hat and sun glasses was seen gesticulating to unidentified Slaz players from the stands. New boy Carl the Calf promptly started kicking the ball at every opportunity in the D giving away numerous shorts. Coincidence?

Not long after Topper pulled off an outstanding save from a resulting short corner tipping the ball round the post, only for Blocker Bailey to deflect the ball into the back of the net courtesy of sublime diving header. Two minutes later a weak deflected shot saw Topper run away as the ball trickled over the line. A cackle was heard from the stand, as the the figure in the hat and shades lit a large Cuban cigar.

Meanwhile Slaz midfield, Kene Dene, Chugger, Scoopy Snr and Pajamas worked tirelessly to foil Young Tony’s plans. The front three however had succumbed and proceeded to shoot more blanks than a James Bond movie. Slaz’s domination did end up with Adam Seattle scoring in the last minute but to numerous players relief this was not enough to effect the final score line of 4-1. The figure in the stands lit another Cuban, got into a blue Rover and roared off to the bookies. MOM William Hill; COM Topper Not a Stopper.

Men’s 6th’s (4) vs (6) Ben Rhydding 7th’s

This week’s game was perhaps the strangest game of the season for the Development team. Having received a message on Thursday morning from Ben Rhydding asking to cancel the game as they only had 7 players and no keeper, it was lucky that we had 17 players available and a spare keeper and we promptly offered them the players that they required and it was game on. Slazenger’s started the game very well, going 3-0 up within the first 15 minutes with a goal apiece from Luke Minchella, Eleanor Randle and Ruby Rodgers following some good play from the Slazenger midfield of Ben Jackson, Luke Minchella, Curtis Jones and debutant Alex Pearson.

A comprehensive win was on the cards, or so we thought….. This prompted a rethink from Ben Rhydding, assisted by “our man on the inside”, Dene Minchella, who had bravely opted to fill in at centre back for Ben Rhydding. Unfortunately, their re-arranged formation worked a treat, and Ben Rhydding scored four unanswered goals, including a goal from another Slazenger’s loanee, Ruby Fawdington-Fisher who skilfully pulled the ball down from a head high cross to beat the Slaz keeper, to give Ben Rhydding the one goal advantage at halftime.

The second half started in much the same way as the first half had, with Slaz piling on the pressure, but the goals proved elusive. Despite some good defence from Bella Kidd, Ollie Leonard, Dan Bailey and Danny Croxall, Ben Rhydding hit back on the counter to score again to go two goals clear. Slaz desperately needed a quick goal if anything was to be salvaged from the game and up stepped man of the match Luke Minchella. With seemingly no scoring chance on and the majority of the Ben Rhydding team behind the ball, Luke took the ball just inside the Ben Rhydding half and mesmerised the defence with a weaving run in to the D to slot the ball home in the top corner to reduce the deficit to one goal.

Slaz threw everything at Ben Rhydding for the final 15 minutes, with some good interplay between Owen Coughtrey and Luke Minchella in the midfield, providing chances for Eleanor Randle and Ruby Rodgers, but loanee keeper Will Parish made some good saves to deny the goals. With Slaz pushing forward, the counter attack once again proved to be our undoing and Ben Rhydding scored the winner after some good saves from keeper Charlotte Richardson, to make the final score six four to Ben Rhydding.

Overall a great performance from all of the Slaz players, regardless of which colours they wore. The result didn’t go our way, but it was pleasing to be able to play the game and have so many encouraging performances. Thanks to the players who played for Ben Rhydding – Dene Minchella, Pete Gunning, Tommy Randle, Ruby Fawdington-Fisher and Evie Mollart and to Danny Croxall for helping out on the Slaz team.

Ladies 1st’s (0) vs. (1) Brigg 1st’s

The ladies 1’s took a depleted team of 10 to Brigg at the weekend, to take on a squad of 14!! Expecting the worst but determined to give all they had Slaz went all out from the start to the surprise of the Brigg defence and the home crowd. Sadly this allowed Brigg to take advantage of their overload and they managed to score against the run of play. As the half went on, despite tiring legs, Slaz kept a strong defence. Rarely getting out of their half, MVP Paige earned the days title winning “personal battles” every time.

The half time whistle was a welcome sound, but with just a 1 goal deficit The game was far from over. The second half saw the ladies demonstrate true Slazenger spirit. Simple passing was the name of the game and Slaz , after continually denying the Brigg attack used this to pressure their defence. Sadly, despite a number of chances, a goal never materialised but Slaz left with their heads held high and looking forward to the return fixture; Final score 1:0

Ladies 2nd’s (3) vs. (2) Chapeltown 2nd’s

On a wet Saturday in Horbury, Slaz Ladies 2s faced Chapeltown. Chapeltown got a early short corner, followed by another after Stacey lifted the ball at the opposition, which they did not use to their advantage. Slaz had a great chance after a run down the wing from Cherry, who passed to Nicci, who passed to Natasha who’s shot was saved. There was some great play from the defence pushing up into midfield, and some brilliant passing throughout the team. Another short corner for Chapeltown with a great save from Tracy. There was some good passes from Slaz, and we were unlucky to score after the ball was saved by the defenders foot. Mia had a chance one on one with the keeper but this was saved.

Chapeltown had another short corner which they scored from, and this ended the first half with Slaz 1 nil down. Slaz had a free hit from outside the 25 which Stacey hit straight in to Maisie, who with a great touch managed to get the ball into the back of the net! 1-1Slaz morale was high and we had a few shots on goal which kept going wide. Slaz’s next goal was from a short corner, straight strike from Sarah, hitting a defenders foot before it went in. Slaz continued to battle well, and secured another short corner which hit a defenders foot so were awarded a flick which Nicci calmly placed bottom left making the score 3-1. Chapeltown did make a come back scoring again, and Phe was unlucky to have her goal disallowed. Final score 3-2. Player of the match was awarded to Maisie Davis for her awesome goal!

Ladies 2nd’s (4) vs. (3) Sheffield Uni Bankers 2nd’s

In Slazenger’s Ladies 2s second game of the weekend against Sheffield University Bankers, it started out with a strong attack from Bankers, they began with quick passes around Slaz and quickly earn their first goal. Slaz quickly turned around with Bankers failing to defend and with a tap around the keeper from Mia, the score was equalised 1-1. Approaching half time Slaz scored again, Mia placed the ball to the back of the net following some excellent passes up front. The sound of the whistle signalled the ending of the first half with a 2-1 lead to Slaz. The second half started with a good battle between the two teams. Unfortunately, Slaz gave away a short corner which resulted in a goal, making it 2-2. Slaz came back strong with a hard pass into the D, which Nicci chipped up in the air and struck mid volley past the keeper, scoring a well deserved goal. It was a definite contender for goal of the season! Bankers equalised again, but with minutes left, Slaz were awarded a short corner; with a strong push to the top of the D, Stacey scored a goal from an excellent hit. Slaz earn a well deserved win 4-3. Player of the match was jointly awarded to Maisie Davis and Nicci Swinden, but there were notable performances from Jess Lloyd, Helen Ramshaw and Linda Stacey who stepped up from the 3s to play this tough game.

Ladies 3rd’s (7) vs. (1) Harrogate 5th’s
Slaz 3s absolutely smashed the 1pm game at Harrogate. We took the opportunity to increase our goal difference within the league.

It started off with Slaz getting straight at the Harrogate side. The rain didn’t put us off on a slow pitch getting the 1st goal from Caro Schofield with a little help from Caitlin McGrath. Caro has a way of attacking the goal in a seemless manner, keeping hold of the ball and positioning in the right hand side with Caitlin just finishing off the goal. The next goal was a strong hit from Linda Stacey with the rebound off a short corner. This hit Caro’s stick and landed in the top left hand corner.

Slazengers gained a number of short corners that allowed us to practice out technique. Jess Lloyd, Sarah Ritchie and Emma Eley kept it strong in defence where a few balls come through the middle but Harrogate were no match. We had a smashing goal from Lauren Fealey sweeping it into the goal off the post. This was all before half time. Helen Ramshaw and Linda moved into the middle and worked the ball to either side to Justine Birkett, Ellie McWilliams and Caitlin creating triangles of play, keeping hold of the ball till the half time whistle.

Harrogate came strong into the 2nd half applying a bit more pressure and managed to get the a goal by shear luck. This saw a one on one with keeper Lizzie Tunstall, who took the ball, only for Harrogate to regain, and excellent tackle from Sarah, saw the ball lifted into the air and over the players heads into the goal. Harrogate also gained some short corners but an excellent save from Jess on the line followed by a cracking save from Sarah off the back line denied Harrogate another goal.

This urged Slazengers to push forward and another goal was taken by Natalie Beech sweeping strong scraping off the keepers pads and hitting the back board. The penultimate goal came from Lauren with an excellent sweep from the left side. Taking full advantage Slaz realised that they might not get another goal so made a skillful decision to get short corners, which lead to another goal. This came from Linda getting the rebound keeping it in the D and doing a great hit to make the ball hit the back board. Final score Slazengers 7-1 Harrogate

U10 Boys

Boys U10’s EH Cup tournament. The Boys were ready for what we knew would be a challenging morning of hockey. Slazenger started well against Wakefield with some excellent defence from Rhuben Foster and Leo Sheen-Meakin Both teams were equally matched but Wakefield were stronger in attack and the game ended in a 2-0 loss.

We had a quick pep talk and started with great optimism against Ben Rhydding. But is soon became clear that they were great team with some brilliant passing which caught out our defence early on. Tori Richardson in goal played a brilliant game and made many excellent saves. But Ben Rhydding managed to score 7 before the final whistle.

Slazenger’s third game was against Leeds. The boys started well with Aleks Thompson and Seth Hoole working the ball well up the pitch but Slazenger were unlucky not to score. A counter attack from Leeds gave them the lead. Slazenger played a superb second half, worked very well for each other but were unable to stop Leeds score the 2-0.

The last game was against Wakefield again. The players kept working hard for each other, and played some excellent hockey. Owen Coughtrey made some strong runs up front with support from Owen Wiper in midfield. Tori kept her vocal support up throughout the tournament and it certainly wasn’t down to lack of trying. But Slazenger were unable to win this last game.

Slazenger newest recruit, Charley Thomas played a brilliant first tournament. The team will be back in action on Sunday morning at Weetwood. Slazenger BU 10’s are all smiles after today’s tournament, as they enjoyed the game for the game not the win!

(From l-to-r) Owen Coughtrey, Owen Wiper, Rhuben Foster, Seth Hoole, Leo Sheen-Meakin, Tori Richardson, Aleks Thompson and Charley Thomas