Slazenger Mens 3rd’s traveled away to Leeds Adel Carnegie at the weekend, and were unfortunate to come away with a 2-1 loss. This result is a blow to the teams promotion hopes.
Slaz were looking for the full 3 points, and their start demonstrated the ambition. Some great passing and early pressure by Slazenger resulted in a great many chances. The midfield co-ordinated effectively, with Robin Brearton, Robin Whawell and Steve Johnson linking up well. Unfortunately, as has been common in the latter part of the season, Slaz struggled to capitalise and secure an opening goal. Captain Paul Corney, and Isaac Fisher both went close, but to no avail.
The initial pressure softened, and the remainder of the first half was end to end hockey, with pressure on at either end. Goalkeeper and Man of the match Giles ‘Fodder’ Field did an exemplary job, with some spectacular saves through the half, however in the end it was Leeds who scored first.
The second half was again just as close, though for the first ten minutes, Slaz struggled to get out of their own half. Again some great defending from Nick Slack and Nathan Crowther maintained the single goal deficit. Slaz broke the pressure, and for the last 25 minutes, it was all them who controlled the match. After pressuring the oposition defence, a penalty corner was awarded, and Paul Johnson fired the ball home, to which the defence and keeper had no hope of stopping, drawing Slaz level.
Slaz maintained the pressure, but in the latter part of the half, a break against the run of play allowed L.A. to secure the winner.
Slazenger host Leeds at home next week (26th March) at 3pm
