This season marks the first year of the new men’s development squad as part of Slazenger Hockey Club; A mixture of the brightest upcoming stars, and the experienced older players.
In their first outing, The team gelled well, and within the first quarter, they were pilling on the pressure. It was only a matter of time before it paid off. Cutting plays from Tim Hunter, and Ian Hedges broke up the defence, allowing Robin Braeton to fire home the opening goal, defeating the goalie in spectacular fashion.
The game restarted with the momentum firmly with the Slazenger squad. But a slip in concentration, and a concerted effort gave Huddersfield the equaliser. Slazenger redoubled their effort, resulting in 3 successive goals, and gave Isaac Fisher a well earned hat trick.
With an almost unassailable lead, Slazenger continued to press, but a combination of strong goal keeping and a resurgent defence prevented any further scoring opportunities. This strong back line allowed Huddersfield to make a break towards the goal, and against a truly dogged defence finally managed to scrape a second goal.
Slazenger gave a spirited performance and against a stronger, more experienced side, came out triumphant. With great performances from Captain Andy Fisher, Goalie Ralph Toon, and Defender Nathan Crowther, the team can go into next weeks confrontation with confidence.
Next week, Slazenger development squad host Harrogate at home. (4:30pm push back)
Team: Andrew Fisher (Captain), Ralph Toon (Goalie), John Toon, Rowan Tejura, Paresh Tejura, Ian Hedges, Nathan Crowther, Robin Brearton, Tim Hunter, Alan Bates, Isaac Fisher,Tom Pitchforth, Dan Pitchforth.
Slazenger Mens Development (4ths) (4) vs (2) Huddersfield Development
(Sat 11th Sept 2010, 4:30pm, Lockwood Park; Huddersfield)
