Lost 4-2
Scorers: Alec Harrison
MoM: Angus
DoD: Louis
With thanks to team sponsor M1 http://www.canterburyhockeyclub.co.uk/patrons
Match Report: vs Exeter (Lost 4–2)
The boys faced a tough test against a well-drilled Exeter side in what turned out to be a high-intensity and competitive contest from the first whistle. The game started at a strong tempo, with both teams looking to impose themselves early, but it was Exeter who struck first. A scrappy passage of play inside the circle led to the opening goal, with the ball bouncing kindly for them in a congested area and finding its way over the line to make it 1–0.
Rather than letting their heads drop, the response from the boys was immediate and full of intent. The midfield began to move the ball with greater speed and purpose, and the pressure started to build. That persistence paid off when Raz stepped up with a moment of real quality, unleashing a superb forehand strike that flew past the keeper and levelled the game at 1–1. It was a goal that lifted the energy across the pitch and gave the team real momentum.
With confidence growing, the boys began to play some excellent hockey, linking passes well and stretching the Exeter defence. The reward for this spell of dominance soon followed. After a sustained attacking phase, Haz produced a moment of brilliance, striking a rocket into the top bins to put the boys 2–1 up. It was a gorgeous finish and fully deserved for the level of hockey being played at that stage.
However, credit must go to Exeter, who showed why they are such a strong and organised side. They responded with composure, tightening up defensively and taking their chances when they came. Their equaliser shifted the momentum slightly, and despite continued effort and work rate from the boys, Exeter managed to edge themselves back into the contest.