Match reports - November 29, 2008

The 1st XI returned to winning ways – and the top of the table - with a 4-2 victory over Surrey Old Boys, and the 2nd XI maintained their title ambitions with a 3-0 win at Barnes. But there was less to smile about for the 3rd XI who went down 3-2 to Camberley, while the good starts by the 4th XI and Ladies now seem some time ago. The 4th XI have now lost four in five after losing 1-2 at OMWs, while the Ladies, who lost 1-3 at Tulse Hill, have now taken only one point out of the last 15.

Click here for this week's match photos

1st XI 4-2 Surrey Old Boys
After the disappointment of last week it was imperative to bounce back not only with a win but a convincing performance. We welcomed back Duffy from his travels but with Bruce at Twickenham we were thin on the ground - nearly as this as Will's hair. Talking of which Will lasted a total of 46 seconds before doing something to his back and that was the end of his Saturday afternoon exercise. Accordingly Eds was thrust into an alien role and then proceeded to take no chances and perform his duties well.

Cato and Duffy worked well in the middle together and this enabled Ed B to play further up the field with his working well with Rippers b oth having a greater presence than in most games this season higher up the pitch. We kept the ball short and sharp and although Trickster had to mop up a number of bits and pieces we dominated the first period and scored three goals with incisive play down the right, hitting the back line enabling Ed B to score one and Gavin two - all three either tap-ins or deflections. SOBS had some good individual players but perhaps lacked the team work that with their enthusiasm could cause others in the league problems.

The second half saw us a little more ragged but Knapp shot home to make it 4-0 at which point the opposition came back at us and nicked two goals. We created chances but became too strung out and lacked the earlier cohesion and this has to be down to a lack of fitness. There was also the case of an incorrect choice of options at various points but nevertheless this was an impressive performance ahead of the two big ones left before the break.

Last week we lost to HAC, allowing Wanderers to leapfrog us at the top of the table. This week HAC did the same to Wanderers, allowing us to return to the top, two points clear of Wanderers and OMWs. We play both these sides in the next fortnight. David Knapp



Barnes 0-3 2nd XI
After taking on the league leaders the previous weekend it was onto third-placed Barnes, third only by virtue of a weaker goal difference than ours. We arrived at a miserable and cold Chiswick expecting a tough assignment, in truth it was nothing more than a routine victory for a team growing in confidence and desire. Barnes were not helped by the fact that their best player (by a mile) pulled his hamstring after five minutes and had to play up front in the "hobbling around role", but to be honest there was only ever one team in this contest (so ill keep it brief this week!).

We made a couple of changes to the side that drew with Whitgift: Andy Selby filling in at right back for Mez and myself and Duncan swapping roles - I moved to left midfield and Duncan moved to defensive midfield. On the whole the changes worked as I was given more licence to get forward and consequently scored a couple of goals whilst Duncan set about their midfield breaking down attacks and harrying Barnes into errors.

To say we dominated the first half would be an understatement. I can’t remember them ever really being in our half longer than a few seconds, it was one-way traffic. We made multiple forays into Barnes' D and if their umpire had gone to Specsavers we could have had about 10 short corners. We went one up after 15 minutes after the ball was squared to me to sweep into the roof of the net from close range. Minutes later after a short corner (which should have been a flick and a card after their sweeper made a heroic goal line clearance with his foot) and some pinball action the ball broke to Rory who connected sweetly with a reverse-stick strike which whistled past the keeper. I take full credit for this as it was me who during the warm up told everyone not to try anything to flashy in the D and to put the ball on a foot etc - reverse psychology.

2-0 up at the break and it could have been three or four. We never really kicked on after half time which was a bit disappointing, we managed to get a third (I got on the end of a deflection and tucked it away again from close range) fairly early on which effectively killed the game and both sides knew it. Barnes hit a post but that was about as close as they came. Neil Grimes also went close late on but was unfortunate not to score. In truth with the game won our intensity dipped and our passing and movement also faltered - I think we all had one eye on the warmth of the dressing room. If we had maintained our first half form and improved our awareness and distribution when on the break we could have doubled our advantage such was the paucity of resistance coming from Barnes whose league position looks fairly flattering based on that performance.

So we remain hot on Whitgift's heels with two games to go before Xmas. We must win them both so we can mount a serious title challenge in the New Year. Special mention to the defence - nine goals conceded in eight games is by far the best record in the league, keep up the good work! Chris Porter


Tulse Hill 2-1 Ladies
Saturday saw as trek halfway round the south circular to play TH&D away on a cold morning. We had a good warm-up and were revved up and ready to go from the start. The first half was pretty evenly matched with some good attacking plays from us and them. We scored first with some good quick passing up and into the TH circle for Vikki to slot past their keeper to take us 1-0 up. However, it wasn’t long before we conceded our first penalty corner which TH converted with a merciless straight strike. The pay was end to end with TH pressurising us well on 16 and us likewise. We conceded another penalty corner but successfully defended it second time around. At half time the score was 1-1.

The second half saw both teams battling hard but we seemed to be tiring as we struggled to keep up with our TH counterparts. Another short corner conceded by us and converted by them saw TH go 2-1 ahead. It also seemed to be a half of injuries as Rewa in goal was forced to run out and make a save and went down falling on her shoulder. She didn’t get back up and he suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder. We had no subs were one down and I was starting to think about donning the keepers pads and helmet. Fortunately after some time testing the wounded limb she tentatively got to her feet and bravely continued the game. Five minutes later Gayle received a stick in the face, there was no blood and again she bravely continued on. Mez then got a ball in the hand but after a bit of hopping around carried on! We battled on trying to keep the pace high taking quick balls to get ourselves back in the game, but unfortunately we just didn’t mark our players enough and for the second week in a row couldn’t seem to score. After a break by TH they scored a third goal to secure the match for themselves. It wasn’t a good game by the girls and we will have plenty to work on in training this week if we want to end our streak of draws and losses. Jackie Waite



3rd XI 2-3 Camberley
Bollocks ... bollocks ... and more bollocks. Nigel Hawes

OMWs 1-2 4th XI
Report to follow.

Roger Loveland Trophy announced

Chris Burton, who is very well known to many of us through his many years in the umpiring fraternity and is also a vice-president of the club, announces details of the new Roger Loveland Trophy.

Many of our members will not know who Roger Loveland was but those as long in the tooth as me most certainly will!

When I started umpiring back in the 1970’s, Roger, along with his very noisy brother Tony, was playing for the Old Cranleighans 1st XI and indeed skippered their side for many years. He was always the perfect gentleman and his knowledge of the game was extensive. On the pitch he played hard but fair but in the bar he was frequently the first person to buy the umpires a beer and engage them in friendly banter.

Roger continued to play, latterly in the Vets, but was still always delighted to welcome any SHUA members as old as he was! Very sadly Roger died recently very prematurely. He will be missed greatly in hockey circles.

In memory of Roger the OCHC committee has most generously offered and annual award to SHUA as they felt that Roger’s affinity with the umpires was so much a part of his hockey. We are absolutely thrilled by this and our Council has agreed that the Roger Loveland Trophy, to be presented annually at our AGM, should be awarded to the SHUA umpire who has made the most improvement during the season.

Our sincerest thanks go to the OCHC and as a vice president of their club, I hope that the next time those who knew Roger visit the club, they will raise a glass in his memory.

Match reports - November 22, 2008

The weekend the wheels came off, with the 1st XI's unbeaten start to the season ending with a 1-2 loss at HAC, a result which sees us leapfrogged by Wanderers at the top of the league. The 2nd XI came from two down to draw with leaders Old Whits in a feisty game which Whits, not for the first time, tried to keep simmering after the final whistle. The Ladies went down 1-2 to Guildford, while there were also losses for the 3rd and 4th XIs. Click here for this week's match photos

HAC 2-1 1st XI
The unbeaten record has gone in the most frustrating of circumstances. Perhaps this match was the indication we need that the old guard should move on and the younger aspirants in the seconds be given a chance en blok. HAC thoroughly deserved their victory in a game that produced no more than five shots on target in the 70 minutes. At this stage of the season I would say that HAC were by far and away the most organised, fittest and hungriest side we have played against. Of course one defeat in eight games does not herald a crisis and the league is still in our hands. However, if our interpretation of the complicated rules is correct by finishing third we could end up in the league below our seconds next season - bizarre. Last year saw our first defeat rapidly followed by another five loss of points that scuppered our season. No repeat this year however as two of the next three are against our main protagonists.

The first 15 minutes set a pattern for the day - losing the 50/50 balls and on a skiddy and slightly bumpy pitch having inferior basics to the home side. Once again our undoing was a sharp short corner strike that zipped inside the right post - an excellent strike but one that should have been dealt with. Although still struggling we were back in the game from our first short corner and against the run of the play David Knapp popped home a well-worked corner. No more chances for either side before the break.

We knew that big players play well in the big games and so our big players needed to step up to the plate. Sadly they did not - the writer included. Although we spent 80% of the second period encamped in the HAC half we did not have a single shot on target and only won a single short corner. Our play to the 25 was good but after that shocking. Quite why we did not win more short corners and use our now slick routine is something we need to work on. Again, HAC defended resolutely and although not creating much were intent on catching us on the break.

The turning point was when we had a gilt edged chance to go 2 -1 up with Knapp robbing the defence and then consummately failing with the one-on-one against the keeper passing instead of taking on the keeper. Five minutes later we were one down as a poor clearance found its way back to the HAC centre half who slipped the ball goalwards and a swept shot found its way home. Pressed though we did, our naive play created zero. Cato was once again outstanding and fair to say the only bright spot of our day other than the corners.

Well done HAC for playing a game that exposed our weaknesses, something we have to put right in the next three games. David Knapp

2nd XI 3-3 Old Whitgiftians
If their was any pre match hype surrounding the top of the table clash at TD on Saturday between the OCs and Whitgift then the game definitely lived up to it. Both sides were boasting unbeaten records going into the encounter and it was clear from very early on that neither side was going to let their records slip without a scrap. League leaders Whitgift are a good side, full of confidence after winning 6 on the spin and came to TD with high hopes of adding to that tally. After going 3 up in the space of 20 minutes their hopes had turned to expectation but a spirited comeback from the OCs meant that the spoils of this war were ultimately shared. What the game lacked in overall quality it made up for in intensity and aggression with both sides collective tempers simmering on the edge of legality throughout ...

In truth we started woefully and Whitgift rightly made us pay with 2 well taken short corners. It was not as if we hadn't been warned as Whitgift narrowly missed the backboard from their first short of the game. We need to be more streetwise against the top teams, if it looks like they have a slick routine then foul them outside the 25 or at least outside the D...Whitgift's 3rd came after about 20 minutes, a quick break and some non existent marking ensuring that we had a considerable mountain to climb if we wanted to get anything from the game. Finally we switched on and began to settle into the match, making decent headway down the right flank and getting ourselves in decent attacking areas. Our increased intensity paid off as from a short corner Paul slotted home with composure after his initial strike was blocked by the onrushing Whitgift defender: 3-1. With the bit between our teeth we pushed forward for another goal, which thankfully came before the interval after more good work down the right culminated in Rory finishing well past a rattled Whitgift backline: 3-2 game on. As the half drew to a close the opposition were fuming about what they thought was "a foot" in the build up to our second goal. The bruising on my foot is beginning to subside....To give you an indication of their anger I was told by their number 8 that he was going to "knock my f****** head off". Although this made him an instant hit with the majority of our side, I can regretfully inform you that i still have my head, poor chap.

The main directive coming from the half time talk was not to get sent off. This was salient advice given the nature of the game. The fact that we had 9 players on the pitch at one stage tells you all you need to know about our listening skills. Paul (already on a green card) obviously had one eye on Twickenham as he felled one of Whitgift's midfielders with a pretty dire challenge. Whether or not it warranted being stamped on is contentious, however it definitely deserved a yellow and a spell in the bin. Things got worse when Rory couldn't reign in his temper after scoring what looked like a legitimate goal. Their umpire was taking no prisoners even though he sounded like Penfold. So 11 played 9 but such was our resurgence in the second half we rarely came under any concerted pressure. We began to pass the ball shorter, faster and with more accuracy and for extended periods were camped in the opposition's half. Any traces of first half composure evaporated from Whitgift who seemed content to blast the ball into corners in order to try and regain a territorial foothold in the game. Back to 11 a side we applied more pressure and after a cross from Duncan and a deflection from me, the ball was steered in calmly by Mini Mez at the back post. 3-3 - a superb comeback complete!

Both sides had chances to win the game in a frantic finale. A cross from the right evaded everyone. Duncan came close but their keeper saved from yards out. Right at the death Whitgift broke away, Jon Heard shadowed his man for 30 metres and then performed an awesome rendition of "Swan Lake" and fell on his arse. Eventually our keeper Tim made a great save and the ball was cleared first by Rob and then by Duncan. The game finished in an ugly fashion as the usually docile Dodie had a bit of a run in with their striker. Everyone picked up their handbags and shook on it with one eye firmly on the return fixture next year.

In the end a good result given the first 20 minute debacle, and we move on with our unbeaten record intact. In periods in the second half we played extremely well as our passing became more accurate, but we need to ensure those periods last much longer if we are going to win the league and turn these draws into wins. Also we need to cut out uncharacteristic errors in terms of man-marking and keeping 11 men on the pitch. But it was pleasing to see that our heads never went down and we showed real fighting spirit to emerge with the 1 point.

Another hard game against Barnes on Saturday who are now level on points with us - a must win game.

Ladies 1-2 Guildford
A late push back saw us playing Guildford at freezing 4pm at TD. Guildford were flying high leading our league, but had actually lost more matches than we had going into the game. We were missing our usual back line but had Mez back from uni and Rewa stepping out of goal for us instead. We started well and were dominating the first 15 minutes. The defence were doing a sterling job and an unfortunate defensive error against the run of play saw us go 1-0 down. It stayed this way until after half time when an awesome cross from Ems into the Guildford circle saw Dora 1 on 1 with the Goalie. We held our breathe - if anyone could nail this it was Dor and sure enough she did leaving the GK without a chance. We were back in the game. We were passing the ball around well determined to get another goal and knowing we were more than capable of winning the match. But Guildford pressurised us well, forcing our defence to do a grand job and Steph in goal to pull off some outstanding saves. There were several penalty corners either end and the run of play was pretty much end to end. There were close calls in both penalty areas.

A back pass from Vikki to Muriel saw Helen set up a good goal - unfortunately as Muriel plays sweeper it was a Guildford goal and earning her the dick of the day title and Guildford the three points! It was unfortunate and apart from that incident Muriel and the rest of the defence had had an awesome game, Muriel mopping up the loose players and Mez fully fit, Sarah H dropping back and Rewa on the right all doing a sterling job defensively and pushing up to support the midfield. Those missing will have to work hard to regain their places! It was down to a great Guildford defence preventing us scoring and putting us under pressure that lost us the match.

Even though it finished 1-2 to Guildford, it was still a good team performance from the ladies and a lot of positives to take away from the game. Thanks to the umpires for some good fair umpiring. Jackie Waite


Addiscombe 4-1 3rd XI
The 3rd XI’s Groundhog Day season started in its normal fashion again on Saturday, commencing with another enjoyable car ride through the beautiful streets of Croydon. Included within this drive were plenty of enforced stops which allowed us to admire our surroundings, these stops being allowed to us by the sheer volume of our fellow travellers (it still escapes me why so may people choose to come to this part of the country). On finally arriving at another school in Croydon the normal conversation ensued about how poor the Germans had been with their bombing in not taking out more of the area. We had plenty of time on our hands to have this discussion due to the rest of the team being held up in the Croydon traffic until just before push back.

Eventually once almost everyone had turned up (Rich N being top of the Sat Nav for Christmas list) and we had found the correct astro, which we were to play on, the match got started. The first part of the match started pretty well with the back four of Ollie, Tommy, CD and Stefano holding strong whilst playing the ball around the back before supplying the midfield. The ball was being played around nicely all around the field as we had discussed and the plans seemed to be coming together with Armo and Chris linking up well in midfield we definitely seemed to be holding our own.

That was until Addiscombe won a short corner. A seemingly innocuous shot was initially saved but slow reactions led to a goal being scored and we were 1-0 down. Thankfully, though, we have got rid of our habit of giving up the game on going a goal down. Everyone picked themselves up and went straight on the hunt for an equaliser. With the ball being run hard down both wings by Rich and Dom the attacks were relentless for a period of 10 minutes. With Dave and Chris up front making some great runs. This ended with us scoring a great goal when following a great passing move Dom found himself in front goal and calmly slotted it past the Keeper. Just as we thought though that we might go into half-time all even, we were caught by a sucker punch. With a great run down our left Addiscombe got in behind Nige and scored their second to make it 2-1 going into half-time.

The second half started in much the same fashion with honours all even for the first 15 minutes. Unfortunately though we started to chase the game, a little too much. This meant that Addiscombe were starting to catch us on the break. This left us defending against excess numbers and twice in quick succession Nige was left with one on ones, thankfully these were dealt with and the defence were able to get back. We then pushed our luck a touch too much and the third one on one was not repelled and we went 3-1 down. This was followed by a fourth before the end and again our day ended with us believing we should have done better.

Thanks go to Addiscombe for providing both umpires and for being one of the friendlier sides in the league. Its bizarre how two teams who are based so close can be so different? Nigel Hawes


4th XI 1-3 NPL
Report to follow

Match reports - November 15, 2008

The 1st XI maintained their 100% record and top place in Surrey One with a 4-2 win over Cheam, while the 2nd XI scored four second-half goals to defeat Walton 5-2. The Ladies drew with Old Georgians 1-1, and the 3rd XI recorded their first point of the season with a 1-1 draw, courtesy of a goal two minutes from time, against NPL. The 4th XI beat Teddington 2-0 while the Vets went down to Bromley 0-2.



1st XI 4-2 Cheam
The proverbial game of two halves in which we were scintillating for 25 minutes of the first 35 but inept in the second once the game was killed off.

Having been pumped up by the ghetto blaster in the Cheam dressing room and making the most of a Brucey warm up we knew that plating short passes and crisp hockey and wanting rather than expecting to win would enable us to dominate and dominate we did. Chris Valentine was outstanding in the first half benefiting from a solid display from Nick Lewis whose timely runs from the back caused all sorts of problems for Cheam and gave Chris the space to open up the Cheam defence time and time again. Trickster was redundant in the first half due to our domination and at the break we were 4-0 to the good. Chris set up Knapp for the first, Ed Breton scored at the third attempt from a short for the second and Chris tapped home the third a fitting reward for his first half display. The fourth was the product of a cracking ball out of the back, a sublime dummy by Gavin leaving Knapp with the task of beating the keeper in a one on one and slipping the ball home. In between times we created a fair few other chances that were not converted.

Now to the second half - was it the same two sides playing? For some reason we stopped running and probably felt the game was over and so took our foot off the pedal. A spirited Cheam side cam back in the game with two goals, the second a product of a short corner given away for a clumsy tackle in the 25 and a straight strike deflected over Trickster - sadly by one of us. Although we continued to create a number of chances that looking back were on occasions easier to score than miss it was Cheam who came closest to scoring again with a couple of deflections going narrowly past the post.

Although not as tight as last week we do have to learn how to kill off games in the second half otherwise we will come a cropper.

Great umpiring from Ebs and Ian Jolly - the best combination we have had this season with no cause for complaint from any of the players during the 70 minutes.

HAC away next week - never a happy hunting ground. David Knapp

Walton & Weybridge Hawks 2-5 2nd XI
It was raining goals at Sunbury as we got back to winning ways in style on Saturday afternoon. Considering we had only scored eight goals in five games in the lead up to the match it was pleasing to net five times in a single outing. It was not all plain sailing though. With 15 minutes left on the clock we were leading by a one-goal margin after the hawks had dispatched their second of the game. However a combination of calm heads and clinical finishing ensured we killed off any chance of a shock comeback, with three goals in quick succession. In truth the 5-2 score-line did not flatter us such was our dominance in terms of territory, possession, fitness and skill.

After a high tempo warm up we started the game well and settled into some decent passing and good spells of possession. Andy Selby (looking far more at home in the centre of midfield) linking play well. The tactic of playing Paul upfront with James was playing off with both players moving well and providing targets for our midfield to hit. It was only a matter of time before our pressure translated into a goal, which James Wood provided clinically after 20 minutes.

At half time everyone was shouting about 16s and how to defend them, which I found particularly boring. It was a shame because we could have focussed on one of best halves of hockey so far season. We were confident on the ball, our movement was much improved and our passing crisp. I can't remember the opposition having one clear cut chance during the first period, a testament to our back four's concentration and determination.

Anyway second half and W&W came out with renewed vigour and managed to nick an equaliser, beating Mike on his near post after a significant deflection. Thankfully we did not panic and restored our advantage almost immediately. A great run from Paul led to Rob Merry (who must have been on oxygen he was so high up the pitch) slamming home from the top of the D! Then it was over to Paul to grab an excellent brace to continue his great goal scoring form for the club. Clearly relishing playing higher up the pitch his class shone through, with one thunderous strike which gave their keeper little chance.

We did have a little stutter at 3-1 as hawks grabbed second (again from a short corner) that briefly got the score back to 3-2, but Paul's second and then our 5th, a slick finish from Nick Wood after a perfect cross from his brother, finally clipped the hawk's wings for good.

Ok the opposition were fairly average but we played really well. Crucially the side looked and felt much more balanced. The back four looked settled and assured the midfield were passing and moving and closing down well and we carried a genuine threat up front for the first time this season. There were a number of performances that deserve a mention...Our captain played his best game of the season - a goal, a goal-saving clearance and some marauding surges up the pitch to help out in attack, its clear that full back is a better position for him than left half. Paul Acutt held the ball up well, made intelligent runs and gave us a much needed cutting edge scoring two goals (shame he didn't pass to me with the goal at my mercy late on - these South Africans eh?). "The Woodys" have clearly found their feet now. Both looked sharp and dangerous throughout -a goal each and valuable contributions in general. Andy Selby also had a good game, looking far more comfortable in midfield where he linked well with his teammates and snuffed out any threat coming from their playmakers...

Good result - lets ensure we keep the momentum going for next Saturday's showdown with league leaders Whitgift. Also welcome back to Neil Grimes, who can only help strengthen us further...

And finally... Good to see Martin back umpiring after a few weeks off. He clearly hasn't forgotten how to dish out cards; especially to yours truly. Chris "I got the only card of the game" Porter

Ladies 1-1 Old Georgians
We found ourselves playing our home match against Old Georgians at Surbiton! We had only one sub so knew it was going to be a hard match as we didn’t have the five pairs of extra legs on the bench that we have become accoustomed to! The first half was pretty evenly matched with some close calls from both teams with both our defence and forwards working hard. OG’s won a penalty corner but nothing came of it. Their goal came from a bit of defensive confusion on our part and we let in a sloppy goal. We went into half time 1-0 down against the bottom side in the league.

We knew we had had the better game in the first half and were determined to get something out of the match. The second half we played much more attacking hockey with Muriel and Tux playing fairly high allowing our midfield and forwards to push higher still. OG’s however were not going to let their lead go easily and continued to put us under pressure and again we conceded several penalty corners but held strong defending them. OG’s began to tire and our fitness began to pay off. We found ourselves with much more space but were struggling to put the ball in the goal. Eventually 10 minutes from the end and after some good fast passing through the midfield, Vikki had a shot on goal which she roofed into the left hand corner leaving Jules (our ex keeps) standing. It was a fantastic goal which will be in for a very good chance of goal of the season and brought us back to level at 1-1. We tried hard for another but at full time the score finished 1-1. Next week will be a real test as we face top of the table Guildford. Thanks to both umpires for their time and good consistent umpiring. Jackie Waite

3rd XI 1-1 NPL
Before the match started it looked like it could be another one of those days with various members turning up without shirts including an ex-captain (naming no names Armo), and Ross even turning up without any kit. Nige had also managed to forget to bring and balls so all-in-all our hour warm-up was pretty successful.

It initially looked like this was going to continue into the game with NPL pushing back as we managed to keep giving it away too cheaply and in so doing we managed to put ourselves under a little bit of pressure for the first ten minutes. We seemed then to start getting a control of things with Richard taking over up front from Danny and Chris B dropping back into midfield to partner Armo in the centre. As we kept pushing, NPL caught us on the break and Nige could not stop the ball from going past when left with a one on one.

Although a couple of times this season going behind has been the point where we have imploded, this was not one of those days. Stu Steele took the game by the grip of the neck manufacturing great pressure from the back with assistance of Tim, Ollie and Stefano. With Chris Scott and Chaz making some great runs down each wing the pressure on NPL was constant. Pretty much the last 20 minutes of the half saw us camped in their half and despite constant pressure we were unable to capitalise on this and went into half time still 1-0 down.

The second half started back pretty even with NPL trying to keep us out of their half and making a couple of breaks. Either the defence or Nige Smith, (who commanded his area) were far too strong for them. The pressure then continued to build and it looked in the end as if NPL had decided that the only way forward was to put 11 men behind the ball.

It looked as if we were not going to break this down but with only a couple of minutes to go we secured a short corner. We had had a number through the game but had not really threatened that much with any of them. We still had a never-die-spirit and we were not going to give in on this one. Rich injected to Armo who stopped and Ross struck sweetly. Just as the NPL keeper thought he had it covered Rich swept in and the ball flicked into the roof of the net. With the remaining time left we continued to push but were unable to achieve the elusive win which all considered we did deserve.

Thanks to Jon and David for covering the umpire duties. We came off very proud that the team was starting to gel together and play as a team. The result we have been searching for can only be around the corner. Nige “Cripple” Hawes


Teddington 0-2 4th XI
We returned to winning ways with a 2-0 away win against Teddington Mens VIs. It wasn’t pretty, but we came away with the three points. With various players away watching the rugby, the team was juggled slightly and thanks go to CD who raced back from Hereford to complete the starting XI.

A little over six months ago Teddington Oaks thrashed us comprehensively to win the league title. They bore the same hallmarks of that team; a mixture of very young, energetic, skillful players and a trio of experienced ‘guiding elders’. They were very much a developmental XI and despite their lowly league position we were keen not to be taught a lesson this time around.

We started the game well and played some flowing hockey. Steve Harmer distributed the ball excellently from pivot, enabling CD, Rob Jonker and Smeer to put together some flowing moves down the right flank, and Oxo, Bertie and Adam to do similarly down the left. Smeer in particular always looked dangerous loitering on the last defender, if only the ball would fall kindly for him. At the back, Nick, Rob Crumby and Grant dealt well with an energetic and slightly unpredictable set of Teddington forwards.

A period of good possession culminated in a short corner which ended with CD scraping the ball home from very close range (1-0). After that, our performance went very flat and we hung on for half time for what seemed like a decade. (Half time 1-0).

Play resumed and life returned to our performance. Bertie Bance, inspired by Steve’s new knockers and a trip down memory lane in Richmond Park (where he used to walk his Cat), put in his best performance of the season and scored a deserved goal, passing the ball across the area and into the goal (2-0).

Unfortunately, whoever was responsible for turning on the floodlights must have been watching the rugby, and forgot to do so. Night fell and the game increasingly became unplayable, eventually being halted and enabling us to escape with a two-goal lead and the three points. Dom Tucker


Veterans 1-1 Bromley & Beckenham
Report to follow

OCHC to play School on January 3

After several years of trying, we are delighted to announce that the annual fixture against the School, which was first played in 1921, seven years before the official founding of the OCHC, will resume on January 3 when the School XI play an OC side mainly made up of leavers from the last two years. The game will start at 2.30pm at Thames Ditton.

"I appreciate the efforts of all concerned to ensure this game occurs which will be played for the Roger Loveland vase and will I hope become an annual event," said David Knapp.

Janmohamed gets engaged

After months after resistance, and to the dismay of the Ladies section (he told me to write that), Abeed Janmohamed has finally done the decent thing and proposed to the long-suffering Alex. He continues to display misplaced bravado (when not at home) by insisting that the wedding will not clash with any cricket, especially the Ashes, and that where and when the wedding takes place is entirely within his control.

Janmohamed has not been seen on the hockey pitch this season despite shelling out almost £600 on new goalkeeping kit (Smithy, keep an eye on ebay). He claims that his doctor has ordered him not to play sport because of something female to do with his knee. The real reason is that he is playing more golf in a desperate bid to gain a place in the OCGC Halford Hewitt squad.

Match reports - November 8, 2008

The 1st XI remained top and retained their 100% record with a 4-3 win at Camberley, but nobody is quite sure how we came away with all three points. The 2nd XI remained second with a thrilling 0-0 draw with Wanderers. The 3rd XI were left still looking for their first win after a 0-4 loss at Kenley, while the 4th XI went down 1-3 to leaders Horley. The Vets, despite the rare fielding of a brace of Shanks, lost 0-5 at Southgate but were boosted by a cultural match report (see below) while a double-booked pitch meant the Ladies had a wasted trip to Richmond

Camberley 3-4 1st XI
Holy jamolee - not only was the biscuit taken but the whole factory's supply taken. The factory has shut down.

We knew that Camberley were going to be a tough nut from their results. Giving them space in the midfield and conceding short corners was what they wanted. We had the bulk of the ball in the first five minutes but then went to sleep, lost our pattern and changed our style so it was no surprise when from their first corner the home side went one up with a wicked dipping strike.

The first of the howlers then let us back into the game when Eds’ dying swan won us a penalty stroke and fortuitously we were level when David Knapp popped it home. Neither side managed to create much for the next 10 minutes or so but instead traded passes in the midfield. Cookiey was instrumental in clearing up a lot of loose ball at the back and a change in our tactics saw us beginning to dominate the game and thwart the danger of the two wide-midfield players. Following a strong run and sublime skill from Rory Gavin was set up for our second with Cookiey winning a free hit in our half, making a forward run and picking up the resultant aerial. Back line was again hit and this time Cookiey set up Gavin for our third.

The same style was used in the second half and on winning a short a well-rehearsed move enabled Knapp to pop the ball home. From this point it seemed that it was a matter of how many. Rory had a stinging reverse-stick shot saved but we then lost our shape completely. The injury to Cato hurt us and was evidence of his importance. At this point the fun started. Both sides received two yellows for what were in essence innocuous tackles. Gavin’s was for "being frustrated because I did not blow the two fouls on you before you stick tackled the player"...!! Rippers was for a tackle being of such a high standard that its kind has probably not been seen at this level before. The reverse stick clean nick of the ball was OK but apparently Rippers had the opponent's shirt in his hand. Isaac Newtons theory of relativity would have been oh-so-different had he seen this tackle before the apple fell on his head.

Two quick goals from Camberley, another powerful short corner drive and a cracking shot from the oppo's man of the match gave us a tense last few minutes. CB then went off and we were down to a fit 10.

Nick was penalised and a stroke given for what appeared a clean tackle as the ball went directly off his stick into touch, but this decision did even out the earlier howler. Step up Trickster who worked out the flick taker to save easily. However, not so simple. Feet off the line for Trickster, much questioning and a retake. Ball fired wide so still 4 – 3, and so it remained.

Both sides suffered in equal measures. Camberley were unlucky not to blemish our 100% record and so we were lucky to win but win we did. Twenty-four players baffled in the bar afterwards but still top tonight. David Knapp


2nd XI 0-0 Wanderers
If last week's result opened up some early-season OC wounds, then this week's had the effect of rubbing salt firmly into them. Another game we really should have won but in the end had to settle with a hugely frustrating draw. On a miserable, wet morning at TD we dominated for long periods but could not convert our territory and possession into a goal. Wanderers, who defended stoutly throughout; were clearly the happier of the two teams as the final whistle echoed around our ears like the school bell sounding the end of break - we didn't want it to end...

Once again keeper Mike decided to turn up two minutes before push back which meant that Captain Mez had to get into his fancy dress gear - My constant jibes about his ill fitting gloves did nothing to lift our skipper's rather glum mood. In terms of the line-up we looked really strong, not only did we welcome back Neil and Dodie from their successful exploits with the 1st XI, but were also supplied with Will Stephens and Bruce Davies. We started confidently as you would expect from our league position and the personnel we had on board and consequently spent much of the first period camped in the Wanderers half. The passing and movement was good but as the half progressed it was becoming evident that we were lacking a cutting edge, with our strikers limited to a hand full of "half chances". Wanderers, to their credit; defended well, displaying high levels of determination and concentration. Their game plan was clearly to hit us on the break and we had to be on our toes on one or two occasions in the first half when they surged forward - but these were very much isolated incidents.

The second half was, in reality; a bit of a mess. We became disjointed, our movement lacked real purpose and mentally we became edgy - the thought of not winning playing on our minds. The combination of these factors actually helped Wanderers get more of a foothold in the game which, given their overall lack of skill was hard to accept. However the second half did grant us a few real chances, a series of short corners from which Paul came close at least twice, and another heroic goal line clearance from a defender who "knew nothing about it" after great work from Woody (Woody is now my name for either of Nick and James as I am never going to be able to tell them apart.) and Andy Selby. And much like the fireworks this weekend, the game disappointingly fizzled out.

We are still undefeated but a few alarm bells are sounding in my ears - We have a lot of good players in the 2s this season but there are genuine concerns about the balance of the squad. It became increasingly clear that neither Bruce nor Will are strikers, Will on reflection; probably would have preferred to stay in bed than suffer the ignominy of playing for the 2nd XI but there you go. It is easy to be down on ourselves but it could have been another three points and overall we deserved to win. We do need to work on our shape, movement and structure, especially when working the ball into space in wide areas, but our cause is not helped when faced with five new team-mates every week. A settled team, who are used to how each other plays is crucial - so is finding a real out and out goal-scorer ... Chris Porter


Kenley 4-0 3rd XI
The 3rd XI travelled to the far depths of southern England to play Kenley. Coming off the back of a well-fought and played game last week, a strong team with Duncan Mottram returning to the fray after two years in the lofty heights of the 2XI, we had promise, guile and a fair amount of rain beating down to make for an interesting game.

Kenley started the game moving the ball fluidly and using their flanks. Our defence quickly realised that their game was not going to be quiet and Stu and Tim coordinated affairs with strategic cunning that neutralised Kenley's attacks. As we found our feet, excellent marking at the back and coordination in midfield started to provide opportunities for our own attacks. Two early short corners proved threatening and some luck on Kenley's part prevented us taking the lead. Rich Lawrence was making a nuisance of himself on the right flank with balls being played through to Dave, Chris and as Andy came on to provide new legs, the game was becoming a fast flowing and competitive. Duncan was proving instrumental in midfield with competition for every 50/50 and distribution up both flanks keeping us well in the game.

Our beloved captain, Nigel, felt that there were perhaps a few decisions that were being affected by Kenley's appealing made this opinion felt. After an eternity of discussion with the umpire, an exchange of phone numbers, bit of a hug and a pat on the bum, he returned to the goal mouth without a card.

The first-half continued with end-to-end play and a solid approach. The only criticism would be that the ball was been given away a little cheaply in midfield but 0-0 at half time. After the break both teams appeared to lose their structure and Kenley's attackers started to become niggly … however, the defence held their own. Our midfield couldn't find itself and with some solid play in places, seemed to lose the ball too easily and cheaply that kept the defence busy. Ollie and Stefano were kept busy on both wings however it was Kenley that opened the accounts first with a scrappy play that resulted in a close slap past an already committed keeper. Unfortunately, the second came quickly after from a short corner routine that broke down leaving three Kenley players on the right side facing a man on the line, it was inevitable, 2-0.

The game settled for five minutes before some nice passing from the Kenley midfield cut through too easily to expose our fitness issues we were now facing to score another goal. To our credit, attacks still came forward and Rich and Andy were both unlucky not to put a goal in the back of the net. Midfield had found its structure again and the game started to swing back our way only for a bemusing attack, where the ball went off the back line in front of the umpire, five OC defenders stopped, but the umpire “didn't see it”, 4-0. With five minutes remaining, Armo was called over to be reprimanded for appealing for the ball. Being asked what was he going to do, blow a whistle as he wasn't the umpire, asked the umpire if this was a rhetorical question, diplomacy not a forte obviously.

A very creditable game for us, the score line unflattering and unfair but nonetheless, the score line. A younger Kenley team showed their fitness when it mattered but a well grafted game by Duncan, Stu and Tim with good performances all round. The season is far from over based on the OC's last fortnights play. James Armitage

Southgate 5-0 Veterans XI

And so to Southgate, OC hearts beating with hope on the back of the cliff-hanger that was last week’s win against HAC. But, as Robert Louis Stevenson so aptly observed “to travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive, and the true success is to labour”. We travelled hopefully and we laboured hard and long but five goals later (none ours sadly) we trooped off, heads held high(ish) but, in truth, soundly beaten.
This could almost have been a game of two halves, save that we lost both. We drew inspiration from the heady cocktail that was (a) the re-appearance of Shanks (younger) – in borrowed kit and claiming an improbable Vets goal-scoring average of 2.6 goals per match – (Statto over to you for due diligence on that one please!) (b) the welcome addition of the classy Richard Womack finding a moment before his baby arrives to play beautifully in support of our lonely strikers until eventually limping off mid-way through the second half and (c) the return of the surgically enhanced ‘flying’ Pyne. We battled manfully against a powerful Southgate side and might easily have gone into the break level. Loates and Speers stood firm at the back in front of Shanks (elder), Trinder as ever authoritatively organising the middle and Jon Gray and Tim Neligan tireless in attack. We made chances, we came close, but fatally were unable to convert.. And then the inevitable, a Southgate short corner awarded, a five minute break for 21 players as Trinder debated and re-debated the minutiae of the decision with the astonishingly patient Southgate umpire and then the corner itself, the ball rolling to an unmarked striker in space, with time to line it up and smash it through Shanks (elder), who until then had defended his goal with characteristic determination.

At half time there was still all to play for. An early goal and we would be right back in it. Alas there was indeed an early goal - theirs!

The writer pauses the action at this point to remark on the colourful reaction of Shanks (elder) to this particular Southgate score and indeed to the others that followed. Perhaps it had been a tough week flogging Cruise Liners but big Pete’s response(s) to the goal(s) can perhaps euphemistically be described as ‘colourful’. The only printable part being his command to each delighted Southgate goal-scorer “Don’t say anything!!!” bellowed at point blank range into the nearest ear. As a deterrent against further opposition goal-scoring it proved entirely unsuccessful (although in fairness this was true of much that we attempted in the second half) but I am surely not alone in noticing that the enemy celebrations thereafter were distinctly muted. On a more serious note anyone who was actually at the game will have appreciated that Peter’s therapy-needs are now urgent and all contributions should please be made (as usual) via the website www.ourgoalkeepersisbonkers.com.

Thus the second half passed in a blizzard of Southgate attacks (largely successful) and a handful of OC forays into the enemy territory (all unsuccessful). Eve battled gamely down the left, looking close to fully recovered from his shoulder damage, Bermon came on and tied up their inside right and Butch bottled up their right winger – but all to no avail. In many way we were all winners - we had fun, the sun shone as we played, the post-match chilli hit the spot and some of us even cycled home (sort of). But on the pitch we definitely came second. David Burles

Record website traffic in October

The OC website did record traffic in October, with 18458 page views from 1745 unique visitors. The previous best for page impressions was 17110 in January of this year. The most searched player names were Abeed Janmohamed, Louis Strover, David Knapp and Chris Bents …

Match reports - November 1, 2008

The 1st XI made if five out of five with a 4-1 roasting of a tetchy and ill-disciplined Bank of Boks; the 2nd XI squandered a 2-0 lead to be held 2-2 by Reigate Priory; the 3rd XI are still looking for their first win after going down 0-5 to Old Reigatians, while the 4th XI lost 1-4 to the same opposition. Two Stuart Sleeman goals gave the Vets victory over HAC while the Ladies lost a friendly at Epsom.



1st XI 4-1 Bank of England
At last we have recorded a comprehensive win against the team that seems to always present us with problems.

We welcomed Rory Alexander into our midst following his joining the club three weeks ago and working his way via the 3rds and 2nds into the 1st XI. A hugely positive signal to all club members that by playing for one team does not mean that the door is closed to promotion within the ranks and that by turning up to training your face will become known.

The first 10 minutes saw us totally dominate the match without really creating many good chances although some scrambled clearances kept the score level. We probably had too much time and did not box that clever trying to force the wonder pass instead of being patient. The goal eventually came with Ed Breton drag flicking our third corner giving us a deserved lead. Although pressing for the remainder of the half and not taking the advantage of some good half chances Trickster had to be on his game to make an excellent one on one stop to keep the feisty Bank at bay.

A change in formation at half time suddenly opened up the game and with Bank losing their discipline we took advantage, Ed Copleston sliding in to nudge home our second and Paul Acutt finishing the best move of the game to make it 3-0. Bank's indiscipline led to two yellow cards and regrettably we joined in the testy exchanges and came off the boil. Deservedly Bank pulled one back with their taking advantage of a lapse in defence and but for man of the match Ed Breton taking one off the line it could easily have led to a very uncomfortable last 10 minutes. Nevertheless another short corner was converted with Ed Breton again popping the ball home with a sweet reverse stick strike and the points were ours.

There were two real positives from today. Firstly was the performance of the 4 players who have played second eleven hockey this season, Chris Valentine, Paul Acutt, Dodie and Rory which means that unavailability of first eleven players will mean second team hockey on their return - a healthy and correct situation. The seconds with 2 more new players were unlucky not to win and remain undefeated so suddenly training has become a premium. Secondly the average age of the first two XIs has tumbled down and so it must remain.

The best start to a league season since our halcyon years of a decade ago must now be built on with cockiness, arrogance and an expectation of winning (as opposed to a real desire to win) going to be our most likely downfall over the next four weeks. David Knapp



Spencer Saints 2-2 2nd XI
The 2nd's 100% winning streak came to an halt on a cold and damp Saturday afternoon in Earlsfield. In the end we had to settle for a "desmond " (tutu) with Spencer whose performance defied their lowly league position. It was a game we should have won, taking a 2-0 lead deep into the second half. However Spencer scored with 15 minutes to go and agonisingly drew level in stoppage time....2-2 felt like a loss.

In reflection 2-2 was probably the correct result given that Spencer provided a far sterner test than any of our previous opponents: Well organised, athletic and pacy up front they will surely climb the table throughout the course of the season. Home advantage also counted with Spencer more attuned to what was a very quick and bouncy surface.

However it was the OCs who started the stronger and carried more of a threat throughout the first half. Our two new recruits, brothers Nick and James or James and Nick (I can't tell) settling in quickly and providing some of our most promising work. But for some top notch defending we would have been two-up at the interval. Sadly and importantly we lost Bruce after 20 minutes, who damaged his shoulder in a 50/50 with a Spencer central defender. His goals and general nuisance factor were greatly missed, especially in the second half when we were trying to really apply pressure and force Spencer into errors.

Locked at 0-0 at halftime; it was collectively agreed that we could prosper if we changed the point of attack more often and with more urgency. The first goal came as a direct result of that with the ball being sprayed first left and then right before being fired into the D for Tissy to sweep home from close range. 1-0 and some Andy Murray-esque fist pumping. We continued to press without ever really being on top but managed to double our advantage after Jon Heard's viscously struck free hit was astutely deflected in by Neil Grimes. 2-0 time for cool heads and some "keep ball". Well not if you are Chris Tiss; who decided he would have a crack at decapitating and generally maiming Spencer's midfield playmaker straight from the restart. Out came the yellow card; off went the diminutive Sri Lankan. Idiot/plonker/short arse (can I still get a lift next week mate?)

As clichéd as it sounds we actually played pretty well with 10 men, kept our shape, stepped up our intensity and held out for the 10 minutes whilst Tissy was having a rest. Unfortunately with time ticking away Spencer were awarded a short corner from which a topped 6-iron inexplicably found its way into our net. 2-1. There was a general sense of foreboding as Spencer found the kitchen sink and began throwing bits of it at us, and alas; after some great work from their quick front man (who had been generally speaking well shackled by Jon and Andy) he pulled the trigger and the rest is history.

In summary - our first real test, an enjoyable game to have taken part in; but the type of game that if we want to stand any chance of winning this league; we must close out in the future. Discipline and cool heads are required to succeed and we do have enough experience to deal with situations like the one we encountered on Saturday. However we must keep our chins up, we are still undefeated, 2nd in the league with a home game on Saturday to look forward to.

Keep up the good work - those of you who aren't snatched by the 1sts on Wednesday night or have a dislocated shoulder ... Chris Porter

3rd XI 0-4 Old Reigatians
After a number of poor results the aim of the day was to try and turn our fortunes around. The weather it has to be said was not in the mood to help us out on this mission. This week we welcomed Seb and Richard to our side with Chris also making his first league start.

We started very strongly which is something that has not been seen from the 3rd XI for a while. Unfortunately though this was not to last as OR’s started to reverse the pressure onto us. This pressure ended up with OR’s gaining a short corner which they duly converted. Thanks go to Dickie for stepping in in goal for us after the last minute injury to Nige. Dickie was unfortunate not to save the short after getting an arm to the shot but not being able to stop the ball from going in.

The pressure continued to be applied on the defence of CD, Ollie and Adam and even they could not keep ORs out with them getting another couple of somewhat fortunate goals before half time. We felt pretty unlucky to be going into half time 3-0 down. The weather if anything was continuing to get worse it was noted during the second half that the rain was coming down at a pretty much 45-degree angle.

The second half continued in a similar fashion although the midfield did strengthen up with Armo, Ross, Seb, Richard, Chaz and Chris all starting to link up a lot better. There are some link up plays which we can improve on here but this will come as the midfield play together more. Additionally with the midfield linking better this started to bring Preston and Dave into the game a lot more and we managed to make a lot more chances in the 2nd half. Nevertheless despite this better play ORs were still able to catch us on the break another couple of times and the end result was a 5-0 beating.

The results will come once the team start gelling together we just hope that that is sooner rather than later. Nigel Hawes


Old Reigatians 4-1 4th XI
Report to follow.

Veterans 2-1 HAC
A 10.00 am home game so no change to the usual routine for a vets game of most of the guys turning up at 9.55am some claiming that they had done their warm up by turning their car heaters on full. By 10.10 am we we ready to go on this very cold morning with the OCs having 12 players and providng two umpires in the well wrapped up Cook and Eve with HAC with 11 players.

This must have been one of the first games in many a year with no Eve or Pollard on the team sheet, both breaking bits of their bodies in recent weeks in the line of duty without knowing it. Andy Eve taking a tumble and hurting his shoulder three weeks ago and only finding out that he had dislocated his collar bone a few days later at casualty. Wade was heard to remark in the pub that Andy was a bit of a plonker for not going to check it out after the game, after a game that he had hurt his foot but played to the end. It was not until the week just gone that Wade seeing the Doc for his company medical was told that he had broken his metatarsal bone in his foot!...as you can see these vets boys are made of stern stuff!

So to the HAC game, which started without stalwart keeper Pete Shanks who was in the garden when called by Andy at 10.00 am. Amazingly he was on the pitch 25 mins later in full keepers kit to pull of one of his trademark double saves. A scrappy first quarter gave way to some "just like watching The Arsenal on a good day" hockey for the rest of the first half with Speers, Butcher and Loades solid as rocks at the back happy that their old mate Pete was now behind them protecting their rear flank.

Tireless running from Jonny "Dorian" Grey and Nelligan and no little flair from Orsborn and Hothersall soon had the old army boys chasing shadows. All that was lacking was a goal to make the silky stuff count. This was finally provided by that fox in the box , his honour Judge Stuart Sleeman showing all the "its just like riding a bike" skills of old as someone finally got on the end of one of the many crosses that were being fired into the D.

Half time was taken with a sense of relief that the good work put in had resulted in some reward at last. The only regret was that no one had thought to get a jug of the mulled wine now on tap at the bar to warm things up a bit more.....

The second half brought more frustrations as a second goal proved difficult to get. Eventually this led to a few of the lads attempting a bit too much and possession was often given away far to cheeply allowing the army boys to get their dander up and start having a go. This eventually led to an equaliser which actually shocked the OC troops into more positive action. A few calm heads were needed just to work possession into the right areas and get back to playing it simple. We also needed to get on the end of things in the danger area again.

Cue the man of the moment. The goal poacher himself, Judge Sleeman spotting a ball coming over from his fellow court room man of action Councillor Dave Burles QC, gets the most important of deflections to stear the ball into the back of the net for the winner. The defense then decided that was enough of that so shut up shop for the remaining minutes to produce the win that the lads deserved.

The beer never tasted so good after that in the bar............and the chilli for lunch finally warmed the boys up. Tommy Trinder


Epsom 2nd XI 2-1 Ladies
On a miserable Saturday afternoon we found ourselves at Blenheim playing a friendly against Epsom 3s, from Divison 2. At the start of the day we had 12 players which by recent standards is not many of us, and by the time we met we were down to 11 which meant no subs for a change! Following confusion over meeting times, Ems was running late so we started the match with 10 men, a little disorganised and with several players out of usual position. The rain had started to bucket down and the match looked set to be hard work, although we were looking forward to a no pressure match.

We started slow which was to be expected and we were all having to work extra hard, especially the forwards on closing down the ball, and by this time we had news that Ems was in a cab and on her way from Streatham, so we were determined to work hard try and put some pressure on Epsom and use the match as a good fitness session! Epsom dominated the first 10 minutes and we were forced to defend fairly hard. We soon found our stride though and settled down and began moving the ball around the back, creating space and getting around Epsom with some quick passing, skillful play and fast runs. We had several crosses into the Epsom circle and a penalty corner but no finish. We were pressurising well but a break from Epsom and some complacent defending from us say Epsom take the lead against the run of play. We went into half time wet, bedraggled and still waiting on Ems to arrive. The jelly babies - a gift from Epsom - were gratefully received, a very nice gesture from our oppo. We talked tactics whilst we learned Ems and the cabby were still battling the traffic and Tux reminded us as we stood there hair plastered to the sides of our faces, soaked through and getting cold that this match was for 'fun'!

Second half we new we just had to stick to our players, try and keep the pace up and continue to play our hockey and an equaliser would come and sure enough it did after five minutes from a pass into the D to Caz to Dor who 'melted' it into the goal. We were back in the game. Epsom upped the pressure and were obviously a little narked and things started to become a little more feisty, Nikki in the middle battling it out with her opposing playing and nearly getting a stick in the head (and not whilst playing the ball either!) She retaliated in the best way possible, by demonstrating superb skill and dribbling circles around her opponent. Half way through the second half Epsom had a spate of penalty corners and pushed their players high we defended well on the whole with Lucy who had stepped into Stephs pads in goal for the week having to pull off some cracking saves to keep the score level. Eventually, Ems showed up and we were glad to have some fresh legs to keep us going and try to get a grip on the game again. Just as she arrived we conceded another penalty corner which unfortunately after a melee in the circle the ball was slammed into Mrs Hawes foot who was covering the post - causing Hels a fair bit of pain but not as much pain as the penalty flick that was awarded. Epsom converted and took the lead again. We didn't give up and Ems made her mission to the pitch worth while with some silky skills on the right and a fantastic ball hammered into the circle across the goal mouth but unfortunately our tired legs failed to get on the end of it. We won a final penalty corner but failed to convert and then the final whistle blew. Despite the weather and the fact we lost, it was an enjoyable match. Thanks to Tux for getting it organised, to Ems who spent God knows how much on the cab (we shall def buy her a few beers bonfire night to make up for it!) and to the Epsom umpire for umpiring the whole match. Jackie Waite