Slazenger’s Boys U10’s had a successful Sunday. The “A” team were promoted into the top Division 1, the first time in several years. The “B” team, made mostly of younger players (some only 6 years old!) had a great competition, but struggled to score!
Slazenger A vs. Ben Rhydding
The tournament kicked off with the first draw against Ben Rhydding – a team who have in the past offered tough competition to Slazenger. Initial play was mainly in the Slazenger half, but quick passing and an open goal saw BR take the lead. Good passing in the centre between Will Gascoigne and Captain Lucas Smith put pressure on Ben Rhydding and great stick work and good control gave Alex Stacey a well deserved equaliser. Final score 1-1
The return match saw two eager teams determined to win, but Stacey excelled on the wing blocking every chance the opposition had. Alex set up the only goal of the match, giving the perfectly positioned Charlie Bland a strike at the goal. Final score 1-0
Slazenger A v Leeds
Leeds scored within the first couple of minutes of the start of the game, but not to be outdone, Slazenger hit back with a perfect strike from Will Gascoigne. Leeds truly tested the defence of Fraser Cass and Josh Green, with Niran Tejura making some excellent saves. Play was fairly evenly matched, with both teams displaying a great deal of effort and determination. Gascoigne and Stacey had to work hard but a skilllful chip over Tejuras head saw Leeds take the lead. There were lots of chances by both teams, with Stacey levelling the score with a superb goal. In the last seconds, a Will Gascoigne and Charlie Bland set piece gave Slazenger a well fought for victory. Final score 3-2
Leeds were out for a win on the second game but they were left disappointed as both Alex and Charlie struck home giving Slazenger a repeat victory. Final score 2-1
Slazenger A v Chapletown
This game started out by being fairly evenly matched, but Slazenger soon appeared to be the more dominant team. Slazenger displayed some strong attacking work in the ‘D’ and had opportunities from short corners. The Chapletown goalie had his work cut out but their defence didn’t relent. Final score 0-0
As the rain poured for the sixth game of the day, all the players looked a little tired, but both teams had something to prove on the second match. There was no let up of attacking play and Alex and Lucas were rewarded with a a goal each. The final score was 2-2.
Slazenger B
Slaz B in Div 4 played brilliant hockey after a slow start and by the end of the morning were really getting to grips with passing the ball and moving! just couldn’t score!
Beaten by Hudds Dragons 6-0 over two legs; beaten by Wakefield A 3-0 over two legs and drew against Sheffield B 0-0 over two legs. Aidan Coughtrey put in an impressive performance in goals for the first time for the whole tournament.
Captains: Slaz A Lucas Smith; Slaz B Joe Minchella
Man of match SLAZ A: Alex Stacey
Man of Match SLAZ B: Luke Minchella
