Slazengers mens first team entertained Bradford mens first team on Saturday and despite a spirited second half performance, went down 3-1 to the top of the league. Slazengers started brightly and matched Bradford across the pitch fighting hard for possession and winning the 50-50’s.
Both teams struggled to create chances and it wasn’t until a defensive lapse allowed Bradford in for the opening goal. One quickly bacame two as Slazengers lost possession from the re-start and Bradford capitalised with a quick counter attack. Slazengers rallied somewhat with both Richard Tuddenham and Dan Perry going close but it was Bradford who nicked a third before half time after a defensive error.
A stern team talk at half time saw Slazengers start the second half determined to restrict Bradford to the three they already had and did just that. They pulled one back through Dan Perry but despite a number of short corners, couldn’t close the gap any further.
Phil Midgley took the man of the match award for Slazengers who entertain Lincoln Roses on Saturday looking to avenge the 3-0 loss suffered to them earlier in the season.
From Ben Graham
Match played at Bradford hockey Club on 19th March 2011
