Men’s 1st’s (3) vs. (4) Chesterfield 1st’s
Slaz Men’s 1s made the trip to Chesterfield away hoping for a strong performance against the table topping side and, owing to a quick start, that’s exactly what they got. Slaz applied pressure from early on and two early goals — a well placed dragflick from Jermane Cockerill and a long ball into the D brilliantly finished on the slide by Chris Gascoigne — gave them a deserved lead at the midway point in the first half. In unseasonably warm weather, Slaz worked hard for each other and made the most of their chances. Nevertheless, Chesterfield’s strength in the press had Slaz resorting to aerials and other long ball ploys which made possession hard to come by. Sustained pressure from the opposing side resulted in a home goal and Slaz went into the half-time break 2-1 up.
After conceding again early in the second half, Slaz once again got back into the game, this time from another good team move and finish from Christopher. Unfortunately for Slaz, a hard fought game tipped out of their favour and the table-topping side rallied to score two late goals, one of which didn’t appear to get a touch from any of their players in the D. Despite the loss, this was the kind of performance Slaz were looking for after last week’s perfor4mance and leaves hopes high for the rest of the season. Particularly strong performances were had from Christopher bagging a brace, the returning Isaac Burrows who was enterprising all game at right back and Jermane, whose goal and distribution provided much relief all game long. Despite defeat, Slaz will go into next week with confidence and belief that bringing the same energy and passing hockey will surely yield better results.
Men’s 2th’s (8) vs. (1) Chesterfield 2nd’s
Slazenger travelled to Chesterfield for their first visit to the Derbyshire side. After the slow start last week, Slaz were keen to get back on the front foot. From the start, the visitors were the more aggressive, moving the ball and putting pressure on Chesterfield. Slaz wrapped up 2 penalty corners early on for Richard Tuddenham to convert putting the team 2-0 ahead. A third flowing move saw Jack Sumner convert at the back post to put the side 3-0 at the break. The second half showed Slaz had learned from earlier games, and continued to keep the pressure on. Chesterfield brought more pressure from the start, and made it hard to play the ball out from the back. However, once the team had beaten the high press, there was space in the back to move the ball around and create scoring chances.
This was rewarded by multiple goal scorers through the second half. Lucas Smith was rewarded from a strong solo effort, lobbing the ball over the keeper. Keith Leonard’s penalty corner drag flick was clean into the top corner leaving the goalie no chance. Ben Graham’s strike was low into the bottom right corner from a penalty corner routine. James Swinden scored and Jack Sumner took a second to put the side 8-0 ahead. Unfortunately, Chesterfield were able to net a consolation goal in the dying minutes denying James Walker his clean sheet. Slazenger cement their third place in the league, and look to a real challenge when they host 2nd place Brigg next week.
Men’s 3rd’s (1) vs. (6) Driffield 2nd’s
With back to back matches against tough opponents, today’s game was bound to be hard going, and likely high scoring. Driffield came out all guns blazing, dominating much of the ball in the opening minutes, and despite the odd chance or two from Slaz, they opened the scoring just five minutes in. Driffield continued their high intensity attacks, but Slazenger started to grow into the game a little as more chances came their way, most notably from a short, which happened to be Slaz’s first of the game, when Damo rifled the ball towards goal, but the keeper made an excellent save. Despite this, Driff relentlessly stuck to their game plan, holding the majority of the ball and stringing more passes together. Driffield got the first card of the match after kicking the ball away, but this didn’t stop them, and on the twenty minute mark they doubled their lead with a scrappy, and controversial, goal. As the half drew to a close, Slaz had more composure on the ball, making more successful passes and runs in the final third, but just couldn’t quite find the back of the net. HT 2-0 Driff.
The second half started almost as if it was a carbon copy of the first, with Driffield pinging the ball around with ease, and scoring a third within minutes of the restart. Slaz couldn’t quite grow into the game well enough, however they still fought on, with a few chances of their own, but once again lacking in the opposition D. The game was practically put to bed by Driffield with 15 minutes of the game remaining…a well converted short corner. Then, nearly another within three minutes, but this one was disallowed – an unhappy Driffield player receiving a yellow for arguing that decision. A consolation goal was scored by Slaz, this time from a short of their own, Damo finding Pete who slotted the ball past the excellent Driff keeper. Towards full time, Driffield scored twice more as the Slaz defence tired. FT 6-1 Driff.
A disappointing result, but there were positives throughout – Harry Firth made some excellent tackles in defence; Harry Ashford and James Stevenson showed flashes of attacking flair; and Daz B in the Slaz goal made a selection of great saves and clearance kicks. Today though, Driffield were just the better team.
Men’s 4th’s (5) vs. (0) Halifax 4th’s
Slazenger were awarded a walkover as Halifax were unable to raise a side.
Development (0) vs. (1) Rotherham
Development team lost 1-0 to Rotherham
Ladies 1st’s (2) vs. (1) Chesterfield 1st’s
Slazengers Ladies 1s took on Chesterfield in a game that lacked intensity from the start, with slow play from both sides making for a frustrating first half. Chesterfield struck first after a foot on the line led to a penalty flick, which they converted to take the lead. Despite the sluggish start, Millie made some excellent attacking runs, creating opportunities for Slazengers. Emma was a powerhouse all over the pitch, covering every area with relentless energy and determination, driving the team forward.
The breakthrough came from a well-executed short corner, where Frankie swept the ball cleanly into the backboard to bring the score level. Slazengers then took the lead thanks to a brilliant tomahawk strike from Hannah, sealing a well-earned goal. At the other end, Eliz was outstanding in defence, making crucial tackles and clearances to keep Chesterfield from finding an equaliser—earning her the well-deserved Man of the Match.
While the team’s overall play was slower than usual, individual performances and key moments of quality ensured Slazengers walked away with a positive result to build on. Tart today went to Hannah due to her backside problems
Ladies 2nd’s (5) vs. (2) Harrogate 4th’s
This week Slaz were home against Harrogate and hoping to remain at the top of the league. The game began with Slazenger setting the tone, showcasing great teamwork and fluid passing. Their early dominance paid off when an injection into the D found its way to Hannah, who made no mistake in getting a touch on the ball to open the scoring.
Slazenger continued to apply pressure, with the defence holding firm to thwart Harrogate’s quick breaks. The second goal came from a determined strike by Lou, which managed to roll over the line despite the keeper’s best efforts, extending Slazenger’s lead. As the game progressed, Courtney and Ellie made excellent runs down the flanks, consistently pushing forward and creating opportunities. This hard work paid off when a beautiful cross from the left was met by Nicci, who slotted the ball into the goal to make it 3-0.
However, Harrogate managed to break through just before the half-time whistle, and their strike found the back of the net, reducing the deficit to 3-1. Despite this, Slazenger held their composure and were in a strong position as the teams headed into the break.
The second half saw Slazenger come out just as strong, continuing to play with sharp passing and excellent movement. Hannah bagged her second of the game, before Courtney added another, making it 5-1. Both goals came from well-executed crosses from Ella towards the left post. Slazenger’s dominance was clear, and despite a spirited fight from Harrogate and a late goal. The final whistle blew with the scoreline at a comfortable 5-2 to Slaz.
A fantastic display of skill, teamwork, and composure from the entire squad, ensuring another well-earned victory for the ladies. Player of the match went to Courtney for making great runs, battling hard and scoring a goal.
Ladies 3rd’s (3) vs. (4) University of Leeds 4th’s
In a thrilling, hard-fought encounter, Slazengers 3’s narrowly lost 4-3 to Leeds Uni after a dramatic second half. The result was a stark contrast to the 5-0 defeat Slazengers suffered to the youthful Leeds side earlier in the season.
The match started evenly, with both sides battling for dominance in the first half. Slazengers were resolute in defense, and the standout performer was goalkeeper Lauren Hattersley (player of the match), who produced a series of brilliant saves, including one-on-one stops and diving blocks, to keep the score level at 0-0. Her heroic efforts kept Slazengers in the game.
In the second half, Slazengers switched to a more attacking formation, looking for the breakthrough. However, within the first 10 minutes, Leeds Uni struck twice to take a 2-0 lead. Despite the setback, the home side responded positively. Versatile player Nat Beech, who was having an excellent attacking game, showed composure in a one-on-one with the Leeds goalkeeper, calmly slotting the ball home to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
Leeds were quick to respond, pushing the score to 3-1 shortly after Slazengers’ goal, but the hosts continued to fight. Slazengers’ persistence paid off when solid performer, centre forward Caro Schofield found her shooting boots, netting two clinical finishes to bring the game level at 3-3.
Just when it seemed that the match would end in a hard-earned draw, Leeds struck in the dying moments from a well-executed short corner, snatching a 4-3 victory. Despite the heartbreaking late goal, Slazengers can hold their heads high after a resilient and spirited performance.
Ladies 4
No Game
Mixed (5) vs. (0) Thirsk
Slazengers put on a dominant first-half display to secure a convincing 5-0 win over Thirsk, with all five goals coming before the break. The scoring was opened by Rudgey, who coolly flicked the ball into the back left of the goal to set the tone for the match. Emma soon followed up, sweeping the ball into the corner after a perfectly timed pass from Frankie.
Rudgey then bagged her second with a cheeky nutmeg on the keeper, finishing off a slick move that started with Ben megging a defender before laying it off. Emma then grabbed her second after a scrappy battle in the D, reacting quickest to slot the ball home. The final goal of the game came from Zoe, who finished off a beautifully worked team move. Precise passing from Frankie, Adam, and Isaac cut through the Thirsk defence, allowing Zoe to calmly slot the ball past the keeper.
While Slaz took their foot off the gas in the second half, the team remained solid, with Erin making some crucial saves, including a vital one-on-one stop. Jermaine also left his mark on frustrated Thirsk’s pacey winger, who Mark rightly pointed out was in the wrong sport given his lack of actual stick skills. Off the pitch, an honourable mention goes to Jack and Frankie for providing post-match teas and some top-tier cupcakes.
Player of the Match: Frankie, for some unreal defensive skills. Dick of the Day: Jermaine, for failing to break the whippet’s legs—especially since he wasn’t even wearing shin pads. A big thanks to Lou and Scouse for umpiring!
U12 Girls Cup Qualifiers Tournament
The girls delivered a truly fantastic performance in their cup qualifier tournament today, winning all four of their matches with a combination of solid defence, excellent teamwork, brilliant positioning and well worked finishing. Their determination and skill saw them finishing top of their group and through to the Yorkshire and North East cup finals later this month in style!
Match 1 vs Driffield – 3-0 Win (Scorer: Edie x3) – Slazengers came out strong from the first whistle, dominating possession and working together seamlessly to move up the pitch. Their solid defense meant the ball rarely entered their half, leaving goalkeeper Lillianna with little to do. Edie’s excellent positioning and communication paid off as she converted three well-placed crosses from her teammates, securing a brilliant hat-trick and a comfortable opening win.
Match 2 vs Doncaster B – 2-0 Win (Scorers: Jess, Edie) – Doncaster started the game strongly, but Slazengers remained composed and solid at the back. Lillianna was called into action for the first time and pulled off a great save. The breakthrough came when Edie delivered a perfect cross to Jess, who was in a great position to tap it into the net. Shortly after, Edie made an instant impact upon returning to the pitch, scoring within 20 seconds to seal the victory.
Match 3 vs Harrogate – 3-0 Win (Scorers: Edie, Izzy x2) – Harrogate brought pace and skill to the match, but Slazengers’ disciplined defending ensured they were kept at bay. The girls executed their defensive strategies well, staying patient and pushing their opponents wide. Lillianna made some excellent decisions, stepping up to clear any danger when needed. Edie opened the scoring before Izzy, using her new stick to great effect, added two more goals to secure another convincing win.
Match 4 vs Hull – 1-0 Win (Scorer: Edie) – With both teams unbeaten heading into the final match, the pressure was on. After a quick break and a sugar boost, Slazengers came back out determined. They moved the ball well into space, creating several chances before Edie once again found the back of the net. Hull responded with strong attacks, forcing crucial defensive work from Katie and Matilda, who combined well to intercept and clear the danger. Lillianna pulled off key saves, and in the final moments, a tense goalmouth scramble saw the ball bounce off the post before Katie cleared it to safety, securing the hard-fought victory and qualification for the cup finals.
Overall Performance and Player of the Tournament: The girls were outstanding throughout the tournament, showing incredible teamwork, communication, and positioning. Their defensive efforts were solid from pressing high up the pitch to dealing with pressure in their own D. When attacking, they worked together brilliantly to create and convert chances.
Player of the tournament: Katie – for her rock-solid defensive performance, executing strong stick-down tackles and ensuring nothing got past her. Thank you to Mark for umpiring, Sarah for coming to watch and help with coaching and the fabulous support of our lovely parents. And a massive thank you to Gemma for her efforts in coaching the girls this season, she really is a wonderful and supportive coach. A fantastic effort from all the girls – they turned up to win and gave it everything. On to the Cup finals!
U14 Boys (2) vs. (3) City of York
The game got off to a fast start, with defenders Harry, Zach, Ollie and Ethan doing a great job of marking the York attackers, while goalkeeper Amie comfortably cleared any shots on goal. Harry distributed the ball well to the midfield, with Charlie H playing strongly on the right wing. Will dominated in central midfield, along with Alfie who supported strongly on the left.
The team played some excellent passing hockey and were rewarded with a well placed goal from Nate – what a birthday treat! York fought back, but Charlie L made crucial tackles to halt their progress. Noah came on at right wing, working hard to make tackles and push forward. York managed to equalise just before half-time from a short corner, with the final whistle delaying the Slaz defence from getting out quickly, allowing York to capitalise.
The team started the second half strongly, and Charlie H made a brilliant pass to Nate, who once again slotted it past the York keeper, making it 2-1. Amie made some excellent saves, clearing the ball out of defence. Owen and Declan worked tirelessly to push the team forward, linking up well with players around them. York fought back, with Amelia (who was moonlighting for York who were short of players) making a well-timed tackle and passing to a York forward who took it past keeper Amie, making it 2-2. Unfortunately, York scored again to take a 3-2 lead, which didn’t fully reflect the balance of play, but Slaz fought back hard. Owen created a great chance into the D, but neither Matthew nor Noah could quite reach it. Slaz earned a number of short corners but couldn’t find the goal to equalise, and the game ended 2-3.
The boys played some fantastic hockey today, and it was a pleasure to watch. Thanks to Mark for managing and coaching the team.
The team voted for their Player of the Match, with Harry and birthday boy Nate both earning joint recognition. Well done, boys!
