2025 League – Week 4 – Match Reports

Men’s 1st’s (3) vs. (0) Scarborough 1st’s
Slazenger Mens 1s took a trip to the seaside for their third game of the season, this time against Scarborough. Despite not netting any points in there opening two games, Slaz came in buoyed by solid performances, despite missing key players.

What followed was a scrappy first half, with both sides fighting tooth and nail to reel in some control. Slaz created a number of good chances through a relentless Jimmy Swinden up top, but no goals materialised despite Slaz playing hard hockey. They went into the half time break 0-0 but looking like they could build in the second period.

And, with a renewed focus on building possession in the second half, Slaz’s efforts began to pay dividends. After an incisive forward gallop from captain Ben Stevenson – resplendent in his brand new shorts – a flowing move fell to Amar Khalil at top D who battered a shot into the corner. Soon after, the Scarborough defence begun to flounder and a second flowing move saw Joe Minchella playing a delicious one-two before playing in Isaac Fisher who arrived at the right time and plaice to finish off the move with a chip from top D.

A final goal was added by “Air Jordan” Ingham, diving in at the back post to cutely deflect in an Amar Khalil reverse stick shot and notch his first goal of the season surprisingly quickly.

Slaz remained solid at the back, with a strong performance from Asad Baig and an unlikely clean sheet for Andy Loftus, meaning the scoreline finished 3-0 to Slaz, who looked every bit deserving of the result, having played with heart and sole all game long.

Special mentions go to Harry Firth for a fantastic debut in the 1s and what is sure to be the first appearance of many, and Amir Khalil whose experience and guile ran the game in the second half.

Slaz host Huddersfield at home next week as they look to build on their first win of the season and prove this result was no fluke.

Men’s 2nd’s (6) vs. (0) Chesterfield 3rd’s
The seconds hosted travelling side Chesterfield 3rd’s, with an eye to recovering from a bumpy start to the season. Coming away with a 6-0 win and a clean sheet, the team certainly achieved that. Even in what could be best described as wet conditions.

Slazenger started with the higher tempo and moved the ball around with pace. The home team were able to create space, with Ste Roberts, Owen Coughtrey and Paul Wiper linking up well in the middle. Early in the first half the pressure resulted in a short corner after some deft play by Aleks Thompson. Ian Hedges was able to convert; after the keeper stopped his first strike, he put the second shot into the top corner to put the side ahead.

With nerves settled, the team began to press, winning the ball and attacking against the visitors. Jack Mumford took the opportunity inside the circle, smashing the ball past the goalie, and Ian Hedges bagged his second, converting a second corner with a well taken flick.

In the second half, the weather began to dry out. Against form, Slaz continued to play with composure and shape. Aleks Thompson was rewarded for his hard work up front with 2 goals and Hedges’ fancy footwork bagged his third for an unheard-of hat trick(the first in 10 years?)

The last 5 minutes weren’t the teams finest, and a scrappy defensive effort was needed to ensure that keeper James Walker finished with a clean sheet.

Next week Slaz look to keep the momentum going with an early fixture at Doncaster.

Men’s 3rd’s (3) vs. (4) Leeds Adel 5th’s
On a wet, cold and windy Saturday morning Slazenger mens 3’s were at home to Leeds Adel. It seemed as though the early start had caught the hosts out and they were still waking up as the visitors were 3-0 after 10 minutes.

The Addingford outfit weren’t dampened by this and slowly began to get a hold of the game, Jack Sanderson, Ally Smith and Seth Hoole linking up well and putting pressure on the Leeds midfield. Eventually the pressure the home side paid off when a penalty fick was awarded and putting pressure away by captain Damien Grieg. The rain continued to bounce down as Slazenger’s went in 3-1 down at half time.

The second half was a completely different one to the first Simon Taylor and Will Carr setting attack after attack up with some great passes out from defence. On the hour mark Slaz’ dominance paid off as Josh Swallow scored to make the score 2-3. The team continued to play some exceptional hockey and dominated Leeds however a defensive mistake allowed the Leeds forward to punish the hosts and put them 4-2 up. Slazenger, like the weather were relentless as they continued to play an attractive brand of hockey and with 3 minutes to go saw Greig score again to make bring the hosts within one.

However, the Horbury side couldn’t find a deserved equaliser and slipped to a 4-3 defeat. There were many positives to take from the game and the green machine will look to start spritely next week when they have another 10am start against Leeds.

Men’s 4th’s (Postponed)
No Game. Match against Wakefield postponed as they were unable to field a team.

Development (0) vs. (5) Sheffield
Well the Men’s 1st Team may have been at Scarborough today but I doubt they saw as much sand as greeted the Team on arrival at Sheffield today…I was expecting donkey rides at half time! But putting aside their temptation to get out the buckets & spades, the Team got stuck in 👊

It was immediately obvious that Sheffield were going to be tough opponents (and no doubt more familiar to playing on a beach!) and so it proved with them scoring 4 in the first half despite some strong defence from Noah in particular and Nikolai’s usual 110% effort in goal.

I’m not entirely sure what the coaches said during the half time talk but it certainly worked because it was a revitalised Slaz team who took to the pitch for the 2nd 35 minutes!

There were some tremendous runs forwards from Adelaide, Ruth & Izzy and several times we seemed on the brink of scoring but despite the best efforts of Georgina, Darcie & Ella, the ball refused to go over the line (not helped by a Sheffield goal keeper who may have driven to the match 🤔🤣). Jess, Cerys and Charlie continued to recycle the ball & push hard from midfield but unfortunately it just wasn’t to be today and the score ended 5-0 (we shall gloss over Sheffields 5th goal as it was very much against the run of play)

Teas: chip butties and sausages….devoured with enough gusto to suggest that the kids hadn’t been fed all year!

Player of the Match: Noah for a tremendously solid game at right back…thoroughly well deserved

Donut: I think we were all hoping Adelaide would continue her early season form 🤣 but instead it went to Ruth for her inexplicably collapsing legs ❤️

Thank you to Keith, Mark & Gemma for being the playing adults and imparting hockey wisdom on their young colleagues 👊

Plenty to learn from today but they should all be very proud of their work rate and coming out SO strongly in the 2nd half…..WELL DONE 👊❤️❤️❤️

Ladies 1st’s (3) vs. (1) Lindum 2nd’s
The Storm and the Salvation

And lo, after many weeks wandering in the wilderness of illness, injury, and absence, the Slazengers Ladies 1s were finally restored to full strength. A complete squad assembled once more on home turf, ready to face the visitors from Lindum under ominous, cloud-laden skies.

From the first whistle, Slazengers played with the fire of Pentecost — intensity, purpose, and faith in one another. The early passages of play were filled with promise as the forwards pressed and tested the Lindum defence time and again. At last, salvation came through Mollie, who struck the opening goal after persistent pressure — her reward for belief and hard graft.

But as with all good tales, temptation followed triumph. Lindum, not to be outdone, mounted attacks of their own, sending waves of pressure upon the steadfast Slazengers defence. Yet Emma, Rebecca, Bella, Eliz, and Marissa stood like disciples at the gate — resolute, unyielding, and backed by the fearless young guardian Ami, whose saves shone brighter than the rainbow soon to come.

Still, the Slazengers’ faith did not waver. Another barrage of attacking play from the midfielders Amelia and Zoe led to Frankie finding the net, doubling the lead before the blessed interval. With oranges for communion and the wise words of Ailish (a prophet returned to the sideline), the team prepared for the second half — a test of endurance and spirit.

However, as if to remind the faithful that no journey is without trial, Lindum struck early after the restart, slipping through the defence to claim one back. But Captain Hannah, calm and commanding, gathered her flock and restored order, distributing the ball with vision and grace. Mollie, Millie, and Alys continued to torment the Lindum defence, ensuring their prayers for respite went unanswered.

Then came the deluge — Storm Amy descended from the heavens, and the rain fell as though the floodgates had been opened. The pitch became a sea of puddles, sticks splashed, and passes flowed like rivers. Yet amid the chaos, Slazengers endured. Their reward came through Millie, cool and composed, who slotted home the third goal with divine precision.

As the final whistle blew, and the storm eased, the Slazengers emerged victorious — 3–1 the final score, a testament to unity, resilience, and faith under fire.

Next week, a local derby against Wakefield awaits — a new chapter in this season’s scripture. But for now, the gospel according to Slazengers is clear: believe, battle, and play with heart.

Man of the Match: Millie – calm, clinical, and heaven-sent.

Let us not forget Lord Coops, who surveyed the tempest from the safety of the sidelines and wisely decreed that the weather was far too unholy for her to grace the pitch. While others were baptised in the downpour, she remained dry — a figure of divine foresight (or perhaps just very good sense). We can only assume she’ll descend from on high next week, once the waters have parted and the sun has returned to the land of Slaz.

Ladies 2nd’s (2) vs. (1) Ben Rhydding 3rd’s
After the previous week of a cancelled match, Slaz was fired up to head into another game. With Storm Amy making an appearance Slaz didn’t let her take over the game and battled consistently through the first half but unfortunately Ben Rhydding was rewarded a goal resulting the first half to a 1-0 loss with. straight strike. The second half saw Slazenger come out with renewed determination with many rewarded short corners but couldn’t get it past the keeper, however multiple attempts on rebound Maisie managed to slot the ball behind the keeper into the goal, earning slaz an equaliser of 1-1. The windy conditions made for a scrappy game, and tensions ran high throughout. Ben Rhydding found themselves on the wrong side of the umpire more than once, picking up several cards, however Slaz kept determinations high and with great batting from Kez who picked up the ball in midfield quickly spotted Maisie making a sharp run into space. With a perfectly quick pass, Kez threaded the ball through to Maisie who ran into the oppositions goal, passing it through to Mia who slotted it into the goal making the score 2-1 and shortly after the whistle blew to finalise the game.

Ladies 3rd’s (3) vs. (5) City of York 4th’s
Slazenger travelled to York this weekend to take on York 4s, who had made a flying start to the league and sat top of the table.

York were quick out of the blocks, finding the net within minutes of the opening whistle and then again soon after. Slazengers, however, refused to panic and began to settle into the game. Their persistence paid off when Evie Mollart struck from a short corner routine.

Not wanting to be left out Natalie Beech then made the scoresheet in spectacular fashion. Unfortunately, it was the wrong scoresheet. A ball taken high and flew into the top corner of her own net with the sort of finish most strikers dream about. Both sides traded further goals before the break, with Mollart calmly slotting home her second of the match from another well-worked short corner.

In the second half, Slazengers’ defensive line really clicked together nicely, while keeper Tracy Lorriman produced a string of fine saves to keep her side in contention. From midfield, Stacey Drake was driving the team forward, firing balls into the attacking line. Returning forward Ruby Rodgers showed she hadn’t lost her touch, creating problems for the York defence.

Slazengers’ third goal came from a moment of individual brilliance, as Ellie Page weaved her way past three defenders before rifling the ball onto the backboard — a superb solo effort that brought the visitors within one goal of their hosts.

Unfortunately, York struck again late on to restore their two-goal cushion, and the game ended 5–3. The scoreline didn’t quite reflect the balance of play, with Slazengers unlucky not to come away with more.

Player of the Match went to Sian Glover, who stepped into the defensive line with composure, broke up play with smart tackles, and looked threatening going forward.

Ladies 4th’s (2) vs. (4) Huddersfield Dragons 3rd’s
Slazenger Ladies 4s travelled to Huddersfield to take on Dragons 3s in what proved to be a competitive and hard-fought match.

Despite some early pressure from the home side, the Slazengers midfield — comprising Toni Beverley, Phoebe Mitchell, Amelia Leonard and Mandy Greenwood — soon found their rhythm. Showing good composure and fluid passing, they began to control the tempo of the game.

Around 20 minutes in, Arina Lee capitalised on a loose ball, driving forward on her own to beat the defence and slot home the opening goal. She followed this up shortly after with another superb solo effort, putting Slazengers 2–0 up and firmly in control.

However, Huddersfield Dragons responded before the break, pulling one back and shifting the momentum just before half-time.

The second half saw a rejuvenated Dragons side come out with renewed intensity. They soon found the equaliser and began to turn the screw against a tiring Slazengers team. Despite some determined defending, the pressure eventually told as Dragons scored again to take the lead.

Slazengers struggled to create clear chances in the latter stages and were unable to find a way back into the game, in the dying moment Deagosn managed to find the back of the net again to firmly secure their victory..

The final score ended in a 4-2 defeat for Slazenger. Player of the Match went to Arina Lee for her two excellent goals and tireless work up front.

A special mention also goes to Amelia Leonard, who impressed in her ladies’ hockey debut, showing great promise in midfield.

After a piercing ball through to Aleks Thompson, who teed up Ollie Tuddenham for his first of the day. A two goal lead for Slaz with 14 minutes played. However, Adel began to build some momentum but strong defence from Jack Sanderson, Harry Firth and Ollie Smith kept Slaz ahead. Adel’s pressure won them numerous short corners, which eventually they converted despite some good defending and some great saves from George Hutchinson. 2-1 after 17min.

Conceding this goal seemed to wake up the Slaz team, as some great moves down the right, with the midfield’s support, eventually turned into a goal as Aleks got his first with a clinical finish. Minutes before half-time, Slazenger had the ball in back of the net, a great finish by Owen W, but it was disallowed. 3-1 to Slaz at the break; a decent half, but with occasional lapses in concentration team wide, and more communication was required.

Slaz did not let up on the pressure and used the momentum of the first half to finally get the fourth within five minutes of the restart, Aleks with his second, after some great work from Will Carr and a great pass through from Owen W. A short corner apiece ensued, but both keepers made great saves to keep the ball out. Slaz made it 5-1 after a brilliant team move: Ally found Owen W along the left, who played it into Aleks, who in turn set up Ollie T, the latter two once again linking up. The sixth came from some great passing from Owen C and Ollie T, and an excellent tap in by Evan.

Adel pushed for consolation goals, getting two in the space of five minutes after good counter-attacking and pressure from the opposition. To respond, Slaz looked to make it 7-3, and after a great ball from Alfie Mcalinden, Aleks almost scored his second hat trick in two weeks, but his shot went narrowly wide. With minutes left on the clock, Ally showed some great individual skill to turn in the seventh, rounding off an overall dominant display from the Slaz lads, with some strong performances from every player on the pitch. Perhaps complacent at times, but a good win nonetheless.

Thanks to Tuddy and Tim for umpiring and all the support on the sideline for both teams.

U10 Boys Tournament Report 1

Slazenger v Ben Rhydding – 1–0 win
Slazenger started with intensity, immediately putting Ben Rhydding under pressure. Dom and Matthew linked up well in the opening minute and were unlucky not to score, but Matthew made no mistake moments later, slotting home to give Slazenger an early lead. Ben Rhydding pushed for an equaliser, but a brilliant save from Jackson preserved the advantage. At the back, Harry put in a superb shift, breaking down attacks with confidence, while Edward read the play well, linking up with Dom to keep the ball moving forward.
Matthew continued to impress with sharp runs and intelligent passing. A key moment saw him drive down the pitch and nearly double the lead. Dom and Alfie both came close to scoring, while George kept the tempo high in attack. Slazenger’s defensive trio of Harry, Edward and Jackson were rock solid, with clearances and tackles that shut down any danger. The final minutes saw Slazenger press for a second, with Matthew’s flair and Harry’s relentless pressure ensuring the 1–0 scoreline stood.

Slazenger v York – 0–0
A tightly contested match saw Slazenger hold firm against a strong York side. Edward and Harry were outstanding at the back, showing great discipline and anticipation. Matthew, captaining the side, led by example with constant communication and excellent decision-making.
Jackson made several crucial saves to keep things level early on, while Alfie showed grit in attack, winning the ball back under pressure. Matthew and Max worked effectively through the midfield to link up with Dom, who consistently challenged York’s defence. Defensively, Harry, Edward, and Matthew were composed and decisive, repeatedly stopping York’s advances.
Late in the game, a promising counter saw Alfie set up Matthew, who fed Dom in the D — the shot narrowly missed, but it capped off a spirited and well-organised display. Slazenger’s defensive structure and team commitment earned a deserved clean sheet.

Slazenger v Sheffield – 0–1 loss
Sheffield started strong, but Slazenger responded well, with Dom making a great early run and chipping the ball past a defender to gain ground. Max added pressure with a strong tackle and pass to Dom, who continued to ask questions of the Sheffield defence.
Harry made a key early tackle, and along with Edward, kept Sheffield at bay for much of the half. However, a quick interception allowed Sheffield to edge ahead with a well-taken goal. Despite the setback, Slazenger responded with drive and determination. Matthew’s powerful pass created chances, and Dom showed strong pace despite carrying a knock.
The closing stages saw Harry, Edward and Jackson hold firm, while Matthew and George pushed forward in search of an equaliser. A strong defensive finish limited Sheffield’s chances, and Slazenger can be proud of a battling performance against tough opposition.

Slazenger v Wakefield – 3–0 win
Slazenger finished on a high with a dominant 3–0 win over Wakefield. Max set the tone with early pressure, and Harry and Edward controlled the game from the back. Alfie made a confident run, leading to a quick build-up that saw Matthew find Dom, who calmly finished to open the scoring.
Slazenger’s pressing was relentless, with Harry making a key interception and Matthew controlling the middle. Dom continued to trouble the defence, forcing Wakefield into errors. Edward’s composure at the back allowed Slazenger to recycle possession and keep the pressure on.
Dom scored his second after capitalising on a loose clearance, and Matthew soon added a third with a confident strike. There was a moment of humour late on as Harry unleashed a powerful shot from outside the D and began to celebrate — only to be reminded by the coach that it wouldn’t count!
From front to back, Slazenger displayed control, intensity, and great chemistry to close out the tournament with a resounding win.

The team’s strong performances across all matches reflected their focus, work rate, and clear understanding of their roles. Every player played their part in a fantastic campaign, with strong moments of individual brilliance and outstanding teamwork throughout.

🌟Player of the Tournament – Edward
Edward was a standout across all four matches. His calm presence, smart tackles, and ability to turn defence into attack were key to Slazenger’s success — a thoroughly well-earned award.

👏 Well done to all involved!

U10 Girls Tournament Report 1

The first two matches were against Ben Rhydding & Sheffield and were both scoreless draws, in the first was well earned as Ben Rhydding had a tight defence & Frances was required to make some keys saves & some interceptions from Maia, Penny & Ella. The second was a closer match with 505/50 possession with no real chance on goal by either side.

The 3rd match was a win against Thirsk, Slaz played their best hockey in this match & had a lot of possession & linked up well, in particular Ella, Izzy, Tilly & Sophie in the opponents half. The goal was scored by Ella but Izzy & Tilly were involved.

As it was a 4 team division the teams played each other again. So again first up was Ben Rhydding in match 4. This time Slaz were unable to stop Ben Rhydding from scoring & didn’t really bother their opponents goal. The score was 1-0 & would have been more if it wasn’t for some good defending by Maia, Ellie & Emily but also determination from Frances who made some keys saves.

The 5th match was against Sheffield & was another 50/50 affair with Sheffield having the better of the first part & scoring first & Slazenger rallying to finisher stronger & equalising again by Ella who linked up well again with Izzy & Tilly.

The last match was against Thirsk & was another 0-0, Slazenger had more possession & Thirsk had only one attack on Slaz’s goal. Slaz looked the more likely to score but again struggled to convert.

Scoring is undoubtedly the area to improve in as a team but overall a positive start with performances where the team worked hard & supported each other, new comers Ellie, Emily & Tilly all grew in confidence over the course of the matches & were happy to play in different positions as did the rest of the team. Izzy was player of the tournament & worked tirelessly upfront either chasing back to defend or harassing defenders in the D

Under 10 mixed team tournament
U10 Mixed team Match Report 💚🏑🐝

What a day on the pitch! Our mixed Bee team showed incredible skill, teamwork and grit in four tough matches.

Game 1 – Result: 1–0 Win
The winning moment came from a brilliant run by Hattie, setting up Dylan to slot the ball home with confidence. In defence, Bryce made important stops and distributed passes calmly, while Beatrix and Emily were fearless in tackles and linking play. Henry kept the ball moving with neat passes, and Heidi was quick to close down opposition players to stop counters. Evelyn supported the midfield well, showing good awareness and movement to give her teammates options.

Game 2 – Result: 1–1 Draw
Dylan was once again on the scoresheet with a sharp finish, built on excellent groundwork from the whole team. Hattie and Bryce worked tirelessly at the back, closing down attackers and blocking shots, while Beatrix’s strong tackles helped regain possession. In midfield, Emily threaded clever passes into space, and Henry switched play with accurate long balls. Heidi pressed forward with energy, linking neatly with Evelyn, whose composure helped the team retain the ball under pressure.

Game 3 – Result: 1–0 Win
Slazenger dominated possession and territory before breaking through with a fine team goal. Henry was central to the attack with precise passes, while Heidi and Evelyn combined effectively to sustain pressure. Hattie and Beatrix were rock-solid in defence, winning duels and pushing play forward quickly. Emily provided great link-up in midfield, ensuring rhythm and control. Bryce contributed both defensively and by driving the ball forward. Dylan’s pressing created space and chances, adding energy in attack and defence.

Game 4 – Result: 1–0 Win
Bryce scored a superb goal that came from strong teamwork in defence, showing how quickly the team could transition from back to front. Heidi was a constant attacking threat, forcing saves with excellent shots, while Henry kept play flowing with clever forward passes. Emily and Evelyn linked well through midfield, moving the ball into dangerous positions, and Beatrix made key interceptions to cut out counters. Hattie used her pace to surge down the wings, keeping the opposition under pressure, while Dylan battled hard up front and dropped back to support the defence when needed.

It was a superb tournament performance from the Slazenger juniors, marked by excellent individual efforts and outstanding teamwork. From brave tackles in defence to clever passing in midfield and sharp finishing up front, every single player — Dylan, Hattie, Bryce, Emily, Beatrix, Henry, Heidi, and Evelyn — contributed to the team’s success.

🌟 Player of the Tournament: Bryce who was a vital team player today in his first ever tournament!

👏 Huge well done to all the players — unstoppable teamwork and passion today!