Hockey v Cheltenham

The 1st XI hit the post in the first ten minutes, and then missed plenty of early chances, before Cheltenham gradually took control. The team worked hard throughout, but were up against a team just back from tour. In a great team effort by the 2nds, Rob Seabourne's goalkeeping was outstanding throughout. Henry Cunningham claimed a deflected goal to round off a solid defensive performance. The 3rds enjoyed an impressive start to their game, with plenty of grit and determination. James Pope had an excellent game in goal.

The Senior Colts dominated their first half, with Richard Elliott scoring early on. Nathan Smith controlled the game impressively on debut at sweeper, but in the end Cheltenham ran out narrow winners. The Bs had a game full of passion and skill, and were unfortunate not to get something out of the game. Alex Clarke equalised at the end of the first half, but Cheltenham were able to score two goals against the run of play.

The Junior Colts had a great start to their season, dominating from the beginning in an impressive 3-1 victory. Dom Bracher was the hat-trick hero, and Sam Merriweather's workrate was outstanding. The Bs dominated their first half, but lacked a clinical finish. Though Tom Drysdale, Henry Close and Tom Sharp kept going right to the end, we conceded late in the 2nd half.

The Under 14s started really well, playing the ball around skilfully and taking early chances, with two goals for Tristan Marshall. Rob Ellis scored in the second half, but we missed too many short corner opportunities. The Bs started well and matched the opposition for skill, but looked vulnerable on the break. The team played really well together though, and finished strongly. The Cs enjoyed a very tight affair, holding the advantage for long stretches of play. We were unlucky to concede a scrappy goal, but the whole team played with great commitment, especially skipper Sam Matthews.