2024 Match Reports Week 24

Men’s 1st’s (5) vs. (3) Boston Spa 1st’s
The Men’s 1st team entered the final game of the season – a home tie against Boston Spa – with the stakes crystal clear. Whilst neither promotion nor relegation were a possibility heading into the final game; the Slaz Men’s Top Dogs trophy was anyone’s for the taking. As such, a win was vital.
And, in warm weather, Slaz looked every bit up to the challenge. Having completed their most accomplished-looking warmup of the season at the final time of asking, Slaz took an early lead through a Chris Gascoigne strike.

Further pressure built from Slaz, leading to a number of short corners gained. Despite big talk on the lead-in to the game, defensive stalwart Adam Drake approached his potentially first-ever short corner strike with timidness that led him to fluff his lines whilst trying to stop the ball and wasting a great chance. His unique self-affirmations words only led him to gain a green card and a well-deserved sit down on the sidelines.

However, it was at another short corner that Slazengers showed their talents, with a quality strike from Chris Gascoigne striking the bar and falling to Jordan Ingham at what he’s calling “top D”. Such has been their lack of acquaintance this season that you’d be forgiven for thinking the striker wouldn’t know where the goal was, but his – what he’s calling “vicious” – reverse stick strike into what he suggests was the “top corner” finally ended a season-long drought. Another goal from Danny Perry had Slaz 3-0 before the interval until Boston Spa clawed a goal back from a well-taken drag-flick just before the break.

Slaz started the second period slowly and were camped in their half for large swathes of the opening ten minutes, until a well-timed tackle and blistering run from Jordan Ingham resulted in a flick and what was, shockingly, both his second goal of the day and the season as a whole. Further pressure from Slaz resulted in them gaining another flick, this time won by midfield dynamo Adam Fall, but unfortunately missed by young Ollie Leonard. Nevertheless, only ten minutes later, a good Slaz move was finished well by Chris Gascoigne on his reverse side to take Slaz to five goals for the day and ensure their spot as top dogs for another season.

Boston Spa finished the game with a couple of late goals for the match to finish 5-3 to Slaz, a score line that doesn’t reflect their relative comfort throughout.

Overall, Slaz have performed well over the season and finished in a strong fifth position in the league, leaving them well poised to hopefully build towards a promotion charge next year.

Men’s 2nd’s (2) vs. (6) Lindum 3rd’s
The men’s 2nd’s hosted table topping Lindum for a tough battle to end the season. Slaz fought hard, but Lindum were clinical up top, converting 4 chances in the first half to open up clear water between the two teams. Slaz worked themselves into the game over the half, creating chances including several penalty corners. However a strong showing from the Lindum goalie made it hard for Slaz to find an opening.

After the break, Slaz came out with renewed focus, more fluid play and more pressure on Lindum. Several chances went close, however it was Richard Tuddenham’s trademark strike which opened the hosts account. Slaz continued to press, with good work from Jack Sumner and Ben Graham. Again, Lindum’s goalie and back line continued to play a strong game, with 2 goals on the break to keep them ahead of Slaz However a penalty corner in the closing minutes gave James Swinden the final goal of the game. A tough game to finish the season on, but Slazenger’s 4th place in such a competitive season is a real demonstration of how strong the team has performed this season.

Men’s 3rd’s (P) vs. (P) Bradford 2nd’s
Game cancelled. Bradford couldn’t raise a side

Men’s 4th’s
No Game

Development Team
No Game

Ladies 1st’s (3) vs. (2) Pocklington 1st’s
Slazengers Ladies 1’s travelled to Pocklington with a point to prove, fired up after a controversial match report written by Pocklington. Determined to let their hockey do the talking, Slaz started slow in the muggy conditions and were swiftly punished, conceding an early goal. However, the response was immediate. Slazengers regrouped and took control, slotting home two quick goals. The first came from Frankie, who delivered a pinpoint left slip from a short corner, placing the ball perfectly past the keeper. Not long after, she was at it again, firing a shot goalward—only for Coops to get the decisive touch, securing the lead.

The second half saw Slaz dominate possession, linking up well and controlling the tempo. But in the spirit of keeping things interesting, they generously allowed Pock back into the game, conceding an equaliser. With 10 minutes to go, the pressure was on. Step up Mol. Cool, calm, and composed, she unleashed a phenomenal tomahawk from the top right of the D, sending the ball rocketing into the back of the net. A stunning goal that sealed the victory for Slazengers and wrapped up the 2024/25 season on a high.

Player of the Match: A joint award for Zoe, whose blistering runs kept Pocklington on edge, and Mollie, whose relentless attacking efforts kept the scoreboard ticking. Tart of the Match: Hannah, for failing to mention the lack of changing rooms—leaving half the team to change beside some particularly fragrant portaloos. With the season now officially over, attention turns to the EOS Presentation evening. Keep an eye out for the Slaz Ladies swapping their hockey kit for something a little more glamorous…

However, Slaz’s defence held firm, with excellent work to clear the ball wide and prevent any immediate threats. The counterattack soon proved effective for Slaz, as Alex sent a ball across the goal from a rebound, which found Lou’s stick, who slotted it in. Aire Valley continued to have chances and had a series of short corners, but nothing was converted. The first half ended on a high for Slaz following a great run down the line between Lou, Lucy and Nicci, who eventually found the back of the net. Half time 3-0.

The second half saw a shift in momentum. Aire Valley, showing determination, managed to break through Slaz’s defense and scored to reduce the deficit to 3-1. From there, Aire Valley took full control, applying heavy pressure on Slaz, but the defense remained resolute. Slaz battled back with some key breaks by Lucy Hodson, Maisie, and Nicci, creating a few chances of their own. Aire Valley continued to push forward and managed to score again, making it 3-2. Despite their best efforts, Slaz held firm through the final minutes, defending well under pressure to secure a 3-2 victory. The season is now over, we have won our final match, and even better, we have officially won the league. Player went to GK Erin, for an outstanding performance, making a number of great saves and once again keeping Slaz in the game.

Ladies 3rd’s (0) vs. (4) City of York 4th’s
In the season’s last battle, with hearts full of cheer,
Slazenger 3’s took to the field, without fear.
But York 5 were ready, and quick on the chase,
By halftime, they’d led by a three-goal race. But fear not, dear friends, for we had a plan,
We’d switch up our formation, to do the best we can.
Young Alys was told, “Up the middle you go!”
She moved position , ready to steal the show. She battled, she fought, with flair and with might,
Making tackles and runs, putting up a right fight.
Her effort was shining, she was on fire,
And by the end, Player of the Match was hers to inspire. The second half brought hope, a glimmer, a light,
Caro and Nat were so close, oh so tight. Then there was Charlotte, who brought Lawrence along,
While the subs took the baby and sang him a song.

Ellie Page, poor Ellie, had a little fit,
With umpires and calls, she’d had enough of it. So off she went, to the sideline she strayed,
But not without looking after Lawrence, displayed.
Meanwhile, York snuck another goal in the fray,
4-0 they led, as we went on our way. Mid-table we finished, but what a great feat,
Promoted last season, now standing on our feet.
Though the game didn’t end with a win on the board,
The spirit of Slazenger is what we adore.

U10 Boys
Our U10 Boys collected their League Runner Up trophy! 🏆

Slaz (4) v (0) Wakefield – Slaz started strongly, with Noah and Alistair combining well from the off. A quick break from the back led to Matthew opening the scoring with a neat reverse flick past the goalkeeper. The pressure continued, and Dom had a chance, but his shot went wide. Wakefield managed a break and earned a corner, but couldn’t break through the well-organised Slaz defence, with Harry S and Harry R holding strong and launching a counter-attack that led to a second goal, finished by Noah. Slaz kept up the momentum, with Noah making a powerful run and setting up Matthew with a perfectly weighted pass, but he was unable to convert, shooting wide. Alfie made a solid contribution in defence with a crucial tackle and quick distribution. Dylan came on as left wing and linked up well with the midfield. Another chance fell to Matthew after Noah’s first shot was saved, but good defending from Wakefield kept the ball out. Wakefield continued to press, but Slaz’s defence, led by Jackson’s excellent saves, kept them at bay. Slaz made their third breakthrough when Matthew, positioned at the top of the D, took a quick shot, slotted into the bottom corner. A well-worked final goal came when Noah and Alistair linked up on the right, with Noah finishing off a 1-2. A dominant 4-0 victory, marked by great teamwork and individual performances.

Slaz (2) v (1) Harrogate – Harrogate started strong, controlling possession and passing well. Slaz stayed organised, tracking their players. Harrogate created a good break, and despite several saves from Jackson, a deflected shot off a defender’s stick put Harrogate ahead. Spurred on by conceding, Slaz began to play better, with Noah, Matthew, and Alistair combining to create chances. They made the pressure count, with Matthew scoring to bring the game level at 1-1. Jackson made some vital saves, and Harry R and Harry S were solid in defence, clearing the ball efficiently. A quick break down the right from Alistair resulted in a precise pass across the D to find Matthew, who calmly slotted the ball home for a 2-1 lead. Dylan worked tirelessly on the left wing, marking well and making key tackles to set Slaz on the attack again. Despite Harrogate’s continued pressure, the defence stood firm, with well-timed tackles from Harry S thwarting their attacks. After a nervy start, Slaz settled into their game, showing excellent teamwork to earn a 2-1 victory.

Slaz (1) v (0) Adel – Slaz started strongly with Alistair making a couple of early attacking runs. Noah controlled the midfield, linking up well with Matthew and Dom. Harry S and Harry R provided solid defence, stopping any Adel threats. Despite some good saves from the Adel goalkeeper, Dom and Alistair had chances, but it was Noah who broke the deadlock, finishing a rebound after a shot from Dom. Slaz kept their shape well, denying Adel any clear opportunities, with Jackson making a key save to keep them out. Noah had another chance, but his shot was saved by the Adel goalkeeper. Alfie found space in the attack and set up Noah, who in turn passed to Matthew, but his shot went just wide. Slaz continued to create chances, but the Adel goalkeeper was in fine form, making several key saves. Slaz played well overall, creating multiple opportunities, but the game finished 1-0 thanks to strong defensive work and some excellent finishing from Noah.

Semi Final – Slaz (0) v (2) Sheffield – Slaz started well, working the ball through Noah, Alistair, and Matthew. However, Sheffield had the first clear opportunity, with solid defending from Harry R and Harry S keeping them out. Noah played well in midfield, creating several chances, but Sheffield’s defence was resolute. Slaz had some promising attacks, with Dom and Matthew making good runs, but couldn’t convert. Despite limiting Sheffield’s chances, they broke quickly after a counter-attack, taking the lead with a well-taken shot. Sheffield added a second shortly after, and despite continued efforts from Slaz, including good link-up play from Alistair, Noah, and Matthew, they couldn’t break through. Alistair and Dom worked hard in defence, making key tackles to stop Sheffield’s attacks. Despite Slaz’s hard work and some excellent individual performances, the game finished 2-0 to Sheffield.

3rd/4th Play Offs – Slaz (1) v (1) Wakefield – Slaz started strong, attacking from the off with Noah, Matthew, and Alistair creating space and passing well. Wakefield had some possession in attack, and a shot was well saved by Jackson. At the back, Harry R and Harry S made key interceptions and tackles to prevent Wakefield from getting through. Slaz pressed well, with Alistair setting up Matthew for an early goal. Matthew finished off a great move to open the scoring. Wakefield responded quickly from the restart, managing to score and level the game at 1-1. Despite several chances created by Noah, Alistair, and Matthew, the Wakefield defence held strong, and Jackson made several key saves to keep Slaz in the game. A final attack down the right from Noah and Alistair found Alfie in space, but Wakefield’s defence held firm, denying Slaz a late winner. The game ended 1-1, and after a tense penalty shuffle, the teams shared 3rd place overall.

Player of the Tournament was Harry S who was awarded Player of the Tournament for his outstanding tackles and distribution from the back, playing a pivotal role in both defence and setting up attacking opportunities throughout the competition. It was an excellent team performance throughout all the matches, demonstrating exceptional teamwork, skill, and determination. The team finished third overall in Yorkshire, and with the Yorkshire and North East Playoffs coming up in April, we are hopeful to build on this strong performance and improve our results.

U10 Girls
The U10 Girls A team were in Wakefield today for the league playoffs, collecting their Play Off Runner Up trophy!

Slaz (2) v (0) Lindum – Our first match was against Lindum, and we dominated from the outset. Despite creating numerous chances, with Darcie, Ella, and Penny coming close, we struggled to find the back of the net. Eventually, a well-worked team move set up Ella in the center of the D, and she slotted the ball home to make it 1-0. Our strong performance continued, with excellent attacking play from Penny, Maia, Ella, and Darcie, and solid defensive efforts from Maddison and Bridgette. Frances was rarely called into action. We soon doubled our lead when Ella found Darcie, who finished clinically. Maci and Sophie came on to maintain the pressure, and Maci nearly added a third with a promising chance. Final score: 2-0 Scorers: Ella and Darcie

Slaz (3) v (0) Adel – Our next game was against Adel, and we got off to another strong start. A brilliant run down the right by Penny set up Darcie in the D, who beat two players before slotting the ball home. Maddison and Bridgette were once again outstanding in defense, limiting Adel’s chances, while Frances remained reliable when needed. Persistent efforts by Maia and Penny down the flanks led to another goal for Darcie, making it 2-0. Shortly after, Ella delivered a superb ball to Darcie, who struck a fantastic shot into the corner, completing her hat-trick. We pressed forward for more goals, with Maci, Maia, Ella, and Penny creating additional opportunities. Final score: 3-0 Scorers: Darcie x 3

Slaz (0) v (1) York – The third match was against York, which we knew would be our toughest challenge. The game was an intense, end-to-end battle, with every player giving 100% and working tirelessly for the team. Despite our efforts, we couldn’t break the deadlock. In the closing minutes, a lapse in concentration in our defense allowed York to capitalize with a shot that Frances couldn’t keep out. Final score: 1-0

Semi Final – Slaz (3) v (0) Ben Rhydding – Our results placed us in the semi-finals against Ben Rhydding. Once again, we started strongly, with great midfield play from Penny, Ella, and Maia. Darcie received the ball on the edge of the D, beat the last defender, and scored with composure. Penny soon made a run down the right, delivering a cross that Ella finished with a fantastic strike to make it 2-0. Ben Rhydding attempted to rally, but Maddison and Bridgette thwarted their attacks, leaving Frances with little to do. We extended our lead when Darcie scored again after excellent work from Maia and Ella in midfield. Frances continued her superb goalkeeping as Ben Rhydding created some late chances. Maci and Sophie came on for the final minutes, working hard to secure the win and our place in the final. Final score: 3-0 Scorers: Ella x 1, Darcie x 2

Final – Slaz (0) v (1) City of York – The final was a rematch against York, and it was an evenly contested, end-to-end affair. The girls played brilliantly, demonstrating teamwork and resilience to keep York at bay. Although we created chances, we couldn’t convert them. As the match neared its conclusion, another lapse in concentration allowed York to score past Frances, who was once again helpless to prevent it. Final score: 1-0. The girls should be incredibly proud of their performances and the progress they’ve made this season. Finishing as runners-up and earning a trophy is a testament to their hard work. Player of the tournament was awarded to Darcie for her outstanding goal-scoring ability, versatility, and tireless contributions in defence and midfield. Well done, Darcie! Thanks to Mark for managing the girls, and a big thank you to Rob and Will for their co-coaching as always

In the games against Ben Rhydding 2’s, Slaz won 1-0, thanks to another brilliant goal from Grace. Slaz saved the best until last in the second game against Ben Rhydding 2’s, securing a 3-0 victory with two goals from Grace and one from Edward. Grace also had a goal disallowed after it crossed the line.

The toughest and most evenly-matched game for Slaz was against Wakefield, where both matches ended 0-0.

Savannah stepped up to play as goalkeeper and did fantastically in her return to goalkeeping, making some solid stops and clearances. Tilly, Edward, Ellie, Emily, and Evie were outstanding in defence, making crucial tackles and showing determination to clear the ball away from our goal. Edward, Ellie, Evie, and Heidi were solid in midfield, putting pressure on the opposition and passing the ball forward to our attackers.

Grace, Hattie, Evie, and Edward were focused and energetic in attack, making great runs and passes. They never gave up trying to win the ball back and score for the team. The tournament saw 100% effort from everyone, with brilliant tackles all over the pitch, fantastic attacking runs, and amazing goals. It was a brilliant team effort, and Coach Donna was extremely proud. Hattie won Player of the Tournament for her excellent tackling across the pitch and her great attacking runs. A big thank you to the parents for the pre-match warm-up and their unwavering support, and thanks to Amelia for travelling to Ben Rhydding to umpire.

U16 Girls (3) vs. (2) Harrogate
Slaz U16 girls took on Harrogate A team today at Slaz on a dark Sunday late afternoon. The girls set themselves up well but Harrogate came out strong straight from the off with some quick passing play and using there physical style of hockey well gaining 2 goals in the first quarter, this could have been more if not for Tori being on fire in goals pulling off save after save from both open play and short corners after short corner. Harrogate got a further goal before half time going in 3-0 at the break.

With a quick hard hitting half time talk the Slaz girls came out all guns blazing, giving as good as they got, picking up bloody knees, split lip and knocks to the head, but never gave up. The second half was a much more equal affair with both teams picking up 2 goals, both of the Slaz goals coming from Millie with 2 great strikes, one from a brilliant piece of dribbling and stick the other from a well worked short corner. The girls all came off smiling and in true Slaz style had a great after party inviting Harrogate to join in the full of hockey social life. Player of the match went to Tori for her immense performance in goals

This result was the perfect way to end the season, reflecting the hard work and dedication the girls have shown throughout their training, which was clearly evident in their outstanding performance. Thanks to Claire for coaching the girls this season, and big thanks to Ben who has coached and managed the girls at their recent matches along with Kirsty.

U14 Boys (2) vs. (3) Doncaster
The U14 boys travelled to Doncaster today for their penultimate match of the season. We aimed to start strongly, but had to weather an early storm during the first five minutes as we settled into the game. Once we found our rhythm, we completely dominated, showcasing outstanding teamwork across the pitch.

Our defence, led by Ollie, Ethan, Zach, and captain Harry, was exceptional in shutting down Doncaster’s chances. In midfield, Will and Alfie controlled the game brilliantly, creating opportunities for Declan, Noah, Owen, and Nate. Their efforts paid off when a fantastic team move ended in a shot from Will that the Doncaster keeper saved well, only for Noah to pounce on the rebound and score. We maintained relentless pressure, carving out multiple chances to extend our lead. The Doncaster keeper pulled off some excellent saves, but more brilliant play by Owen set up Noah to calmly slot home his second goal of the match and our second overall. We stayed firmly in control, with Matthew stepping in for Noah, who had both already competed in a U10 tournament earlier in the day. Matthew gave his all, working hard up front and on the right wing, even going toe-to-toe with an imposing opponent who seemed three times his size.

Heading into the second half, we remained dominant, creating further chances through Owen, Noah, Will, and Declan. The Doncaster keeper, however, was having a phenomenal game. Unfortunately, questionable decisions shifted momentum, allowing Doncaster to score twice from short corners that didn’t exit the D—yet the goals stood. Despite this setback, we kept our composure and created another great opportunity as Noah went one-on-one with the keeper, only to be fouled by a Doncaster player. Surprisingly, the free hit was awarded to Doncaster instead. Doncaster pushed forward late on and had several chances, but Lillian’s fantastic saves kept us in the game. However, another short corner in the dying moments resulted in a third goal for Doncaster.

The match ended 3-2 in Doncaster’s favour – a score line that failed to reflect the incredible performance and effort our boys displayed. This result was far from deserved especially given that Captain Harry played the second half of the game with a broken foot. Coach Mark said “today’s display was the finest I’ve ever seen from the lads. Every single player earned the title of “Player of the Match” for their commitment and quality. Well done, boys (and Lillianna) super proud of you all!” Thanks to Mark for also managing the boys today. We’ll regroup and give it our all in next week’s final game of the season.