Squad: R. Brearton, A. Drake, A. Fall, E. Fearn, I. Fisher, C. Gascoigne, J. Ingham, B. Jackson (Capt), A. Khalil, A. Loftus (GK), J. Minchella, D. Perry, B. Stevenson (⭐)
Match Report
Slazenger Mens 1s started the day looking to back up a solid win away at Chapeltown last week with a tough home fixture against Sheffield University Bankers. Despite adverse conditions leading into the game, a committed section of Slazengers faithful came down to clear the snow-covered pitch and make sure the game wasn't called off.
And, from the off, Slazengers looked the stronger of the two sides on the day and made sure those pitch-clearing efforts hadn't gone to waste. After failing to convert their early chances, Slaz's new super-sub Isaac Fisher helped play a part in unlocking the Bankers' defense, playing a long ball to Danny Perry on the wing whose smart play enabled an easy finish for Amar Khalil. More rewards followed later in the first half with a handsome finish from Christopher Gascoigne, although Slazengers could have scored more, including a big missed opportunity to play in skipper Ben Jackson for an open goal. Nevertheless, Slazengers went into halftime with a 2-0 lead and optimism that they might be able to elevate keeper Andy Loftus to a previously unheard of third clean sheet before the Christmas break.
And, in the second half, Slaz continued where they left off. An imperious performance from Ben Stevenson at centre-back - a second man of the match turnout in two weeks - steadied a backline dubiously bereft of movement from his central defensive partner. Silky play from young Amar, already proving unplayable for many defenders in this league, helped to set up a close-range finish for Adam Fall who won't get an easier goal all season.
All in all, a strong performance all around this week with standout performers all over the pitch. Lots to be happy about from the whole squad and particular thanks from the whole team go out to the volunteers who helped clear the pitch to ensure the game went ahead. Slaz will now go into the final few weeks before Christmas hopeful that they can continue to build on this good form and climb the table before the new year. The win puts the 1st's in 3rd, with only 3 points separating the top 3 sides.
Squad: C. Browett, W. Buckley, A. Coughtrey, O. Coughtrey, D. Greig (Capt), A. Thompson, J. Whawell
Match Report
The pouring rain, after a morning of snow shovelling to get the game on, created an uneasy feeling for the Slazenger team who sat in 4th spot, coming up against the sixth placed Ben Rhydding. The match started with the youthful Rhydding team having the lion’s share of possession, breaking down the Slaz defence six minutes in to score the opening goal. Quick dribbling, along with a slight lack of concentration from the Slazenger defence, allowed Rhydding to attack well. Determination from Slazenger led to Aleks Thompson finishing a great move to equalise the game. This was closely followed by a great ball by Seth Hoole, (in his first appearance for the men’s 3’s) into Damo Greig who span around the keeper and lifted the ball home. Ben Rhydding continued to attack, the strong midfield often beating Slazenger to the 50-50s, but a marauding run by Scott Carruthers led to Damo Greig scoring to take the lead for the lads in green. Seconds before the half ended, Ben Rhydding was reduced to 10 following a green card. 3-1 to Slaz at the break.
Ben Rhydding came out the blocks quickly, getting an equaliser off the back of some loose defending. Slaz used this as a wake up call. In what has now become a regular, satisfying development for the team this season, the rotation of the bench clearly gave Slaz a physical advantage, keeping everyone’s legs fresh. Better, more direct hockey followed, with Thompson calmly controlling the ball, slotting through a Rhydding defender’s legs and into the back of the net. 3-2 Slaz. Minutes later, a quick succession of back to back short corners finally led to Owen Coughtrey rifling into the bottom left, doubling the Slazenger lead. Continuing this attacking desire, Aleks pounced on a deflected shot off the keeper, beautifully chipping the already floored man, scoring his first - and hopefully not last - senior hat trick. Using the subs really helped, and Slazenger managed to score two more, Connor Browertt striking calmly from the top of the D, and Jez Whawell finishing at the back post after some great skill by Greig. Full time, 8-2 Slaz! The best score line this season, and an overall great, determined win. Slaz now go back to the top of the league, though with the winter weather, the title contenders have a game in hand, keeping it tight at the top!
Squad: Millie (⭐), Isabella
Match Report
U16 Girls (2) vs. (0) Halifax
Slaz U16 girls looked to put their last match defeat against Durham behind them when they played Halifax U16 girls this weekend. And wow what a performance , the girls held strong from the start as Halifax came strong pressing our defence in search of a goal, then as the Slaz girls started to settle down into their game plan, starting to press Halifax hard, with great pressing from midfield to attack, this paying dividends when Annie did one of her determined runs laying the ball off for some great passing play to get the ball to Millie for a fine finish into the bottom corner.
Slaz continued this great play leading to Slaz getting a short that was expertly worked with Bella pushing Millie for her to smash home her second of the match. In the second half Halifax came out strong again but Slaz girls dug deep and ran the game down and finished with a great 2-0 win. Millie picked up the girls vote for player of the match
Squad: Ruth, Alys, Amelia, Rosie (⭐), Amelie (GK), Edie, Amelia, Lauren, Connie
Match Report
Slazenger’s U14 A team travelled to York for the crucial playoff match to qualify for the Supra League. The game started with a slow pace from Slazenger, but an early goal from York seemed to spark a response from the team. The defensive diamond of Amelia, Beth, Lorna, and Matilda stood firm, limiting York to just one goal, with keeper Amie making several important saves to keep the score-line tight.
However, just before halftime, York struck again with a powerful shot in the D that was unstoppable, putting them 2-0 up. Despite the setback, our midfield diamond of Rosie, Connie, Leonard, Adelaide along with Harriette continued to work tirelessly to create opportunities, but York’s smart defensive play and double marking of our key players made it difficult to break through.
Up front, Edie, returning from injury was limited to a brief stint on the field, and was a constant threat whenever she was involved. Ruth, Lauren, and Alys rotated in attack, and later in the second half, Slazenger pushed forward with three players up front, sacrificing a defender in search of a goal. Despite this, they couldn’t find the back of the net.
The team’s best chances came from their signature short corners. Amelia’s precise push-outs and Rosie’s strike to the bottom corner were expertly denied by York’s goalkeeper, who was in outstanding form, saving several excellent shots at full stretch. Her performance earned her the player of the match award.
The match ended with a 4-0 defeat for Slazenger, but the team showed resilience throughout, they battled hard against a strong and well organised York side.
Thanks to Keith for umpiring, and Ben and Claire for managing the team.
Squad: Alfie, Alistair (⭐), Dom, Harry, Harry, Jackson (GK), Matthew, Noah
Tournament Match Report
After back to back promotions, the boys started their first-ever tournament in Division 1, the boys were fully aware of the step up in competition. However, they entered the tournament in high spirits, ready to give it their all. The team showed tremendous growth and resilience throughout the tournament, particularly in their first-ever appearance in Division 1. They played with great spirit, showing an impressive combination of strong defence, creative midfield play, and attacking flair. Everyone contributed, and they should all be proud of their performances which ended in them finishing a respectable third place!
Slazenger (0) vs. (1) City of York
York started with early pressure, but goalkeeper Jackson was in fine form, making crucial saves. Both Harrys (S and R) worked tirelessly in defence, clearing the ball and breaking up attacks. Despite some good runs from Noah, Alistair, and Dom, York’s defence stood firm, with the York goalkeeper denying the boys a chance to get on the scoreboard. Alfie made his debut for Slaz today, coming on to assist his team. An unfortunate defensive clearance from Slaz gave York the lead, sending the ball into the goal. Slaz continued to push forward, with Alistair making a strong run down the right and providing a cross that narrowly missed its intended target, Matthew or Noah. The Slaz defence, with solid performances from Harry S, Harry R, and Dom, managed to keep York at bay, and Jackson made more key saves. In the end, Slaz were unlucky to lose 1-0 but showed great spirit in their Division 1 debut.
Slazenger (0) vs. (1) Sheffield
Slaz started with high intensity, pressing Sheffield hard and showing good teamwork, particularly from Noah, Matthew, and Alistair. Despite this, Sheffield’s experience began to shine through, with their passing game causing problems for the Slaz defence. Jackson made a key clearance, which put pressure on Sheffield’s defence, but a shot from Matthew was saved. Sheffield broke quickly on the counter, finishing a well-worked move with a clinical goal. Slaz continued to battle, with Noah, Alfie, and Alistair creating chances in midfield and a strong defensive showing from Harry R and Harry S keeping Sheffield’s attack in check. Matthew kept fighting up front, but Sheffield’s defence held firm. Although Slaz kept pushing until the final whistle, they were unable to find the equaliser, and the match ended 1-0 to Sheffield.
Slazenger (1) vs (0) Thirsk
Thirsk applied early pressure, but Noah’s tracking back and solid defending from Alfie and Harry R kept them at bay. A long clearance from Jackson allowed Slaz to break forward, and a great run from Alistair found Noah, who crossed the ball to Dom at the back post. Unfortunately, Dom’s shot went wide. Slaz continued to press, and after another cross from Matthew, Dom made no mistake and slotted home to give Slaz a 1-0 lead. Thirsk fought back but struggled to break down Slaz’s well-organised defence, with Harry S and Harry R keeping their defensive shape and denying any clear-cut chances. The midfield trio of Noah, Alistair, and Matthew continued to create opportunities, and a solid team effort ensured the boys held on for a deserved 1-0 win.
Slazenger (2) vs. (0) Adel
Slaz got off to a strong start, with Noah stealing the push-back and sending Matthew and Alistair on a quick attack. Though their efforts were thwarted by the Adel goalkeeper, the team kept pressing. A good spell of pressure from Adel followed, but Jackson was in command, with the defence holding firm. Dom made key contributions in midfield, setting up Noah for a run that led to Matthew scoring a well-taken goal from the top of the D. Alfie was excellent in midfield, making key tackles alongside Alistair, Dom, and Noah, who continued to control the centre of the park. Despite Adel having some possession in and around the Slaz D, the defensive duo of Harry R and Harry S prevented any dangerous attempts on goal, with Jackson rarely tested.
Noah put his body on the line with great tackles, and Alistair’s brilliant run down the right wing resulted in a fantastic cross that Noah calmly slotted home for a 2-0 lead. Slaz continued to apply pressure, but Adel held out as the match finished 2-0 to Slaz, marking a strong finish to the tournament. A special mention goes to Alistair, who was named Player of the Tournament for his dynamic play on the right wing. His attacking prowess, excellent crosses, and relentless tackling back were pivotal to the team’s success throughout the competition. Thanks to Gemma for umpiring today and James for the match report.
Squad: Bridget, Darcie, Ella, Ellie, Frances (GK), Maci, Madison, Penny (⭐)
Tournament Match Report
The U10 Girls were back in action in Wakefield, looking to continue their good form in Division 1.
Slazenger (2) vs. (0) Thirsk
We started strong, applying pressure right from the off. Penny, Ella, Darcie, and Maci were exceptional in disrupting Thirsk’s attack, with their combined effort laying the foundation for our first goal. Penny made a strong run down the left wing, passing to Ella, who found Darcie in the D. Darcie kept her cool and slotted the ball away to put us ahead. Thirsk tried to push back, but Madison and Bridget were solid at the back, cutting out any threats. Frances had very little to do in goal. Ellie came on for Maci on the right wing and was a constant threat, running hard and creating space. Darcie squared the ball to Ella, who calmly finished to double our lead to end the game a 2-0 win.
Slazenger (0) v (0) City of York 1
This was always going to be our toughest challenge of the day, and it didn’t disappoint. The game was well-matched, with Penny and Darcie leading the attack and creating numerous opportunities, but the York keeper was in fine form. Ella worked tirelessly in midfield, and our defenders – Madison, Bridget, and Frances – kept York at bay. Frances was called into action multiple times and stood firm, keeping the score level. Despite a strong effort from Maci and Ellie down the right wing, we couldn’t break the York defence and so the game ended a 0-0 draw
Slazenger (1) vs. (1) City of York 2
This was another closely contested match. The game was end-to-end, with both teams creating chances. Darcie found space on the edge of the D and squared the ball to Ella, who calmly rounded the keeper to give us the lead. We pushed for a second, but couldn’t find the breakthrough. In the dying seconds, a defensive mix-up allowed York to equalise, with a shot Frances could do little about ending the game a 1-1 draw.
Slazenger (2) vs. (2) Adel 1
This was a more challenging game than anticipated, with fatigue beginning to show. However, we took the lead with a brilliant goal from Darcie. Penny’s pace down the right created the chance, and Darcie’s trademark shot, which rebounded off both posts before crossing the line, put us ahead. Adel, however, responded strongly, scoring twice in quick succession, taking advantage of some defensive lapses. Frances had no chance with either shot. We didn’t give up, though, and with a couple of minutes remaining, we launched an excellent attacking move that found Ella in the D. She finished calmly to secure the 2-2 draw.
It was a solid tournament with some great performances across the team with the team finishing second in the league. The key takeaway is that every team is improving, and we must continue to push ourselves if we are to achieve the success we are aiming for.
Player of the Tournament; the standout player was Penny, whose consistent excellence across all the games made her an easy choice. Penny’s performance was the best I’ve seen her play, and she fully deserved the accolade. Well done, Penny! 
Thanks to Mark for coaching, to Rob for co-coaching and umpiring, and to Will for his coaching of Frances in goal. 
Let’s keep pushing forward!
