Captain Andy Fisher’s Development squad (4th’s) played a spirited game on Saturday, coming away with a well deserved 1-0 victory.
The game started with a great level of energy, and within minutes, it was Slazenger who went on the offensive. The midfield surged forward into Huddersfield’s half, with fluid passing between Luke Gueli, Matt Smith and Tim Hunter. During the first half, it was the home team who maintained the pressure. Occasionally, Huddersfield broke through the green lines, moving swiftly and putting the defense on the back foot, but struggled to find an opening.
In the closing minutes of the first half, the pressure paid off. A quick movement between Robin Brearton and James Bennett broke through Huddersfield’s midfield, setting up Paresh Tejura for his first Slazenger goal!
In the second half, Slazenger continued to press, and had several close chances. Rowan Tejura and James Bennet went close, but struggled to seal their second goal. While Huddersfield looked threatening on the break, they struggled to get through the home defence. Great defensive work from Alan Bates and John Toon held strong, with Goalie Ralph Toon putting in several great saves to keep Slazenger ahead.
In the end, it was unfortunate that Slazenger were unable to press their advantage, given their strong showing, in a game where they had plenty of chances, but struggled to convert more. However, the standard of hockey showed how far the development team have come in the past 5 months.
By Ian Hedges
From match played against Huddersfield Dragons development squad (6ths) on Saturday 29th January 2011
Team list: John Toon, Rowan Tejura and Alan Bates, Andy Fisher (Captain), Luke Gueli, Matt Smith, Tim Hunter, James Bennett, Robin Brearton, Tom Pitchforth, Peter Gunning, Paresh Tejura, Ralph Toon (Goalie)
