A new season and some new faces but still a side with an average age of 8 took part in the first tournament of the year starting in Division C against some older and more experienced teams. We were due to be third on but due to Driffield waiting for players we went on first and got into our game plan straight away thanks to some pre game warm up and training by Matthew Stacey and Rowan Tejura who were also our Umpires for the day.
Slazenger (1) vs. (0) Doncaster
A first shot at goal from Charlie saw the ball skim the post as Slazenger moved in to attack mode with play moving predominantly in to the Doncaster half. An excellent break through the defence saw Will score with a direct strike. Both teams fought hard to keep the ball but Slazenger conceded few chances and took the first game of the season 1-0.
Slazenger (4) vs. (1) Leeds
Good set pieces and structured play saw Slazenger take an early goal with passes from Will to Charlie, struck home by Lucas. A scramble around the goal area saw Slazenger quickly add to the tally with a second goal by Charlie. Slazenger displayed some excellent control and Will hit a powerful strike to score goal number 3 from almost the top of the D! After a quick exchange, Leeds finally found their feet and were back in control and broke through Slazenger defence and new goalie Luke to score. Alex scored a late goal for Slazenger and the final score was 4-1
Slazenger (0) vs. (2) Driffield
Driffield were a physically bigger and older team although early play was reasonably matched. A lucky break saw Driffield take the lead early in the game, following up with a second minutes later. Slazengers played well, held their own, but struggled to convert any chances. Defence was key in this game, with some excellent challenges from James and Josh, however Slazengers were lucky to hold the final score to 0-2.
Slazenger (4) vs. (0) Huddersfield
Slazengers played some excellent hockey with some great passing, which saw Charlie rewarded with the first goal of the match. Will was in a great position to score goal number two which just glanced the post, but Slazenger were soon rewarded after a short corner saw Lucas hit home. Both teams played an attacking game, but a break in Huddersfield’s defence allowed Charlie to score. Good passing from Will gave Lucas opportunity to score a final goal before the whistle ended the game at 4-0.
Promotion secured to Division B!
Man of the Match – Charlie Bland, Most Improved – Joe Minchella