LOCAL DERBY ENDS IN DRAW!

17-April-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 0 - 0 :Painswick

Stroud’s pressure in this match was relentless and time after time the team was thwarted by the Painswick keeper and the ball just did not go into the back of the net. Stroud played some excellent hockey and after half time began to play the ball round its opponents rather than aiming to dribble through and the difference the change in tactic made was striking. Unusually for Stroud the team did not capitalise on its short corners and were unable to gain those elusive points for a win. Painswick had a number of players breakaway and strike on goal, but keeper Helen Summers was there to thwart their efforts. Player of the match this week was Sandra Glass.

Keen supporter, follower of the club and avid retriever of the ball, Tanya Edgington, was 'red carded' for her silent, attentive and seated position on the side line and had to leave the pitch. The makes her a member of a very elite club, that of 'Red Carded Spectators' with Tanya and Paul Munn as its only members!






P xx

Win to End the Season on a High

27-March-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 3 - 1 :Dursley

A win for their last game was a great way for Stroud, sponsored by Ecotricity, to end the season. They faced old rivals Dursley at Stratford Park. Following a run of defeats Stroud, were determined not to lose this one and started the game well. Stroud had all the possession and Dursley hardly advanced into the Stroud end for the first 20 minutes. Stroud passed the ball well across the field and great runs were made by both wingers, Hattie White on the left and new recruit Heidi Hepher-Dalton on the right. Despite several good attempts on goal Stroud could not find the back of the goal. Just before half time Dursley managed a break away and scored a lovely goal to take them into the lead. Coming out from half time Stroud needed to regain possession and get an early goal, which is exactly what they did. A lovely run by Hepher-Dalton up the right ended with a slipped ball which was neatly converted by Lucy Bishop. With the score 1-1, Stroud pushed on and had the majority of possession, accompanied by several short corners. An Angela Bridges special, a flick which eluded the goalkeepers attempts to save it, put Stroud in front. Still they pushed on and finally a third goal was scored following a succession of nice clean passes from Hepher-Dalton and Claire Crosthwaite allowed Elaine Noone to score. Well done to everyone, player of the match goes to Heidi Hepher-Dalton.

Stroud High on Experience - Low on Speed

27-March-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 0 - 3 :Cheltenham CS 2

The Civil Service side that Stroud played away was much stronger, fitter and faster than their opponents fielded for the earlier game. Despite the Stroud team having ‘over 200 years of experience’ in defence – where strategy, skill levels and marking could not have been bettered - it was speed that the team lacked.
Stroud held the Civil Service side during the first half, but then having only 10 players versus the Civil Service squad of 13 began to show, legs became tired and the team conceded a goal. Civil Service then capitalised upon its advantage when the Stroud side was down to 9 players.
The Stroud team would be disappointed to end an above average season in such a way and is looking forward to a better outcome in its rearranged match against Painswick in a few weeks time.

Stroud 2nd Team Earns Another 3 Points

20-March-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 2 - 1 :Wotton Bassett 3

The Stroud team played some excellent hockey - good passing, good tackling and good attacking. Some great through balls from Heidi Hepher-Dalton to Vicky Raynes at the top of the D allowed Jade Crosthwaite to knock in the team's first goal from open play. Stroud's second goal came from its well practised 'International' short corner routine where Andrea Preston found the net and Stroud went into the 2nd half 2 goals to the good.
At half time the Wootton Bassett team changed its formation. The Stroud defence rebuffed attack after attack, with Di Furlong and Jordan Turnball refusing to let the Wootton Bassett forwards have a free run at goal. The visitors’ goal came from a short corner. Stroud keeper, Helen Summers, was called into dynamic action on a number of occasions and centre back Pauline Edgington was named player of the match as she refused to allow the Wootton Bassett team the space needed to score an equaliser.

Stroud 2nd XI Secure Fine 3rd Place

20-March-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 5 - 3 :Cirencester A

Having beaten Cirencester A away, Stroud were keen to do an N4 League double by beating them at home as well. They did not disappoint, coming out of the blocks looking hungry. The back four were fairly untroubled from the start, and it was left to Nick Hitchcroft and Calum Norman to take control in the middle. The former earned himself man-of-the-match with an unstinting performance, whilst the latter belied his mere 14 years. It took less than 10 minutes for Stroud to go in front, Tim Norman’s pass into the D met by son Calum who delicately nudged the ball past the keeper. Cirencester attempted to fight back, but central defenders Andy Murray and Paul Ratcliffe were not to be troubled unduly. Another lively Ben Orme performance up front, plus the return of Craig Wathen in midfield, bolstered Stroud again and they looked a potent force going forward. A well-struck shot was kicked clear, but only as far as Tim Norman who picked his spot from the top of the D and passed the ball into the far corner for a 2-0 lead. Cirencester pulled a goal back, despite Kev Sinden’s best efforts in the Stroud goal, but the incessant pressure Stroud applied eventually led to Hitchcroft’s first goal of the season, taken on the reverse while going to ground – high drama, indeed !
With a 3-1 half-time lead which could so easily have been greater, Stroud were in total control of the match. Passing the ball around nicely, they could have been several more goals to the good, but for some fine goalkeeping. Alan Edwards and Wathen had some impressive runs, perhaps trying to outdo each other, before Tim Norman’s deflected shot was well-saved by the keeper. Calum Norman was on hand, however, to curl the ball round the keeper from the rebound. Surely nothing could stop the home side now, but a silly hitting of the ball away resulted in a Stroud player being sin-binned and Cirencester capitalised on the extra man to pull back two goals in quick succession. Matt Watts, Rob Gleed, Murray and Ratcliffe were under the cosh, but Stroud pulled themselves together again after what seemed like an age, Orme narrowly missing, Calum Norman reverse-sticking a shot a centimetre over the bar and the team earning several short corners. Although going close, Gleed could not find his golden touch with his short corner strikes this week, and Stroud were still clinging onto a one –goal advantage. Edgy stuff, indeed, until Calum Norman’s pass found father Tim in the D and his first time strike flew into the far corner just one minute before the final whistle, sealing an impressive victory and, more importantly, guaranteeing them a superb 3rd place in the division. The Men’s 2nd XI have truly impressed this season, despite personnel changes. Their youngsters have really grown in confidence, skill and game awareness and worked well with the more experienced players. Perhaps promotion might be a real possibility next season. In my capacity as captain, I would like to congratulate and thank everybody who has played for my team this season. The commitment and effort has been exemplary.

Good Performance Again

20-March-2010 :: Mens Badgers: 1 - 2 :Wotton-under-Edge

Stroud’s young Badgers side produced another impressive performance against a much older and larger Wotton team. Their fine passing paid off eventually when Rohan Sopp gave Stroud the lead, but Wotton’s extra age and strength proved too much for the youngsters and Wotton snatched victory in the final minute.

Mid Table finish for Stroud

20-March-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 4 :Thornbury

This week Stroud maintained their mid-table position, despite losing away to Thornbury. A depleted bare eleven made the journey, hoping to hold their own against a team that have struggled themselves. The match started slowly, Stroud absorbing some pressure from Thornbury who looked like they would be quick to break. A long range shot from Thornbury looked to be easily handled by Aleasha, but unfortunately the ball took a rebound from her pads and went in to give Thornbury an early lead. Stroud played a lot of the ball down the left this week, Katy and Becky linking well to give Stroud some attacking play. Some quick passing down the right and good linkage play from Claire Crosthwaite and Elaine Noone allowed Angharad Roberts to equalise with a lovely taken swipe. Unfortunately, Stroud conceded another goal before half time. The pace of the game picked up in the second half and Stroud continually tried to find a way through the Thornbury defence. The home side made some quick breaks, most of which were cut out by good defending from the likes of Angela Bridges, but they did score a beautiful goal early in the second half. Stroud continued pushing, Lucy Bishop coming close to scoring with a solo effort through the middle. Thornbury managed to push another goal over the line, making it 4-1, before Bridges scored a lovely flick from a short corner.

Poor Performance Leads to Defeat

14-March-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 3 :Firebrands 3

Unfortunately, Sunday saw a different Stroud, lacking confidence and depth. Firebrands made Stroud look average and Stroud were unable to create much in the way of an attack. The defence soaked up a lot of pressure from a strong Firebrands side and were fortunate to be only 1-0 down at half time. Stroud played slightly better in the second half, but despite this, Firebrands were able to put two more goals past the home side. Special mention for some great saves goes to Aleasha Holder in goal.

Denied a Draw in the Final Minute

13-March-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 1 - 2 :Chipping Camden

The Stroud team were somewhat daunted at the prospect of playing the unbeaten top-of-the-table side, but very nearly managed a draw, conceding a goal from a short corner in the final minute of the match.
Stroud played well and the team was awarded a penalty flick in the first half when a great hit from Andrea Preston was stopped by a foot on the line. Unfortunately, this was not converted into a goal and at half time the score remained 0-0. Stroud scored first, however, when Kathy Williams cracked the ball into the back of the net from a seemingly impossible angle.
Chipping Campden were re-energised and their first goal came fifteen minutes later. Keeper, Jordan Tunbull, was outstanding as the Stroud defence were put under pressure for most of the second half. Carrie Sanders, Gemma Hunt and Vicky Lane played well in midfield to hold back some of Chipping Campden’s persistent attacking and allowed the defenders a chance to ensure their marking was sound.
The team was pleased with its performance, although disappointed not to hold the lead leaders to a draw.

Sound Win for Ecotricity-Sponsored Stroud

13-March-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 4 - 0 :Old Bristolians 3

Ecotricity-sponsored Stroud faced bottom-of-the-table Old Bristolians 3rd team in Bristol on Saturday. The game started with both teams hungry for the first goal. Old Bristolians made some good runs and looked like they might cause Stroud some problems but these were cut out by Stroud defenders before they could be converted. Despite many successive short corners, OBs were unable to get on the score sheet. Stroud, on the other hand, did not have to wait long for the first goal which came from a pass to Lucy Bishop on the top of the D. Her lovely strike flew into the bottom corner. OBs kept Stroud out until just before half time, this time Claire Crosthwaite having the strike that hit the mark to give Stroud a 2-0 half time lead. In the second half OBs ran out of steam and Stroud piled on the pressure, scoring two more goals. The first followed a good linked run from Bishop and Lucy Moir in the middle of the pitch, being converted by Moir. The second came from Angharad Roberts who took up a good position in front of goal.

Excellent Performance from Under-Strength 2s

13-March-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 4 :Ross-on-Wye

Despite Spring arriving on Saturday, Stroud’s trip to Monmouth looked ominous as they faced table-topping Ross with an under-strength side. The performance delivered by the young Stroud side, however, was far stronger than anticipated. From the off, they competed well, holding their own for the first 20 minutes and probably looked the better side if the truth be told. Inevitably, it was Ross who took the lead but with Nick Hitchcroft and 14-yearold Calum Norman working hard in the centre of midfield, Stroud continued to give the home side serious worries. The strike-force of Tim Norman and Ben Orme is just beginning to fire following the latter’s long absence, and it was Orme’s cross that gave Tim Norman the equaliser with a text-book deflection into the roof of the net. Scott Patient gave another fine performance, showing his versatility, this time as centre back, and Mike Hallett made several telling saves to deny Ross. The home side did get their act together and scored 2 quick goals to leave Stroud a little deflated. No matter, the second half rallying saw some more potent attacking from Stroud and Ross certainly knew they were in a match. It was end-to-end stuff and Stroud produced some nice moves, passing the ball around much to Ross’s chagrin. The pressure and effort paid dividends as Tim Norman became provider for Orme to smash home the visitors’ second. Hitchcroft and Calum Norman looked as near to comfortable in the middle as you can get against now-promoted Ross. The keenly-fought encounter showed Stroud can mix it with the better sides, despite eventually going down 4-2. The match produced some fine hockey from both sides and was umpired well – even the umpires and spectators were complimentary of Stroud’s efforts – let’s build on this for next season.

Nice Win to Regain Some Pride

6-March-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 4 - 2 :Cheltenham C

On a bright, almost spring-like afternoon, Stroud Men’s 2nd XI started the match in determined fashion. In fact it took less than 10 minutes for them to take the lead. Matt Watts vision and quick-thinking threaded a free-hit through to captain Tim Norman. Despite being surrounded by 3 players, he drove forward and slotted the ball in the far corner to give the home side a dream start. With Ben Orme firing on all cylinders and a lively midfield of Calum Norman, Scott Patient, Alan Edwards and Zac Lees providing control, Stroud pressed to extend their early advantage. It was the visitors, however, who struck back before Orme put Stroud ahead again following a lovely passing move. At times, Stroud played some of their best hockey of the season, their speed and work-rate matching their skill. They were rocked back momentarily when Cheltenham equalised again, but the second half efforts put the visiting side under increasing pressure. It was evident that defenders Andy Murray and Paul Ratcliffe wanted the ball that bit more than Cheltenham and they snapped in front of the opposition forwards to instigate yet more attacking play from Stroud. The pressure told on Cheltenham and they made several rather rash challenges, before Rob Gleed’s short corner strike gave the home side the lead once more. Now there was no turning back – certainly not with Patient looking skilful and hungry in the middle. He deservedly won the man-of-the-match award, probably a foregone conclusion even before Gleed struck for a second time, following a couple of saves by the Cheltenham keeper. This was a fine performance and a thoroughly deserved win, metaphorically wetting the head of keeper Kev Sinden’s first-born - congratulations !

Good Signs Despite a Loss

6-March-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 2 :Old Bristolians 2

Heading towards the end of season and with a good mid-table position, Stroud, sponsored by Ecotricity, were looking to have a good game and enjoy themselves. They started in this vein, the first 25 minutes being played with pace and skill. They made OBs look distinctly average. Pressure was piled on the OBs defence for the majority of this period, but Stroud found it hard to convert this pressure into goals, as OBs were overloading the D with most of their players. Stroud also missed opportunities to take the lead, despite several short corners. Towards the end of the first half, OBs had a breakaway and managed to pass the Stroud defence easily to score from virtually their first shot on goal. Shortly afterwards, there was a mis-communication in the D by the Stroud defenders and a free OBs player was in a perfect position to make it 2-0. The second half saw Stroud looking tired and defeated, despite some excellent individual performances. They were unable to gain any ground against this OBs side. Player of the match for Stroud was Grace Cullinane who had an excellent game and who played with confidence.

Strong Badgers Performance Earns another Draw

6-March-2010 :: Mens Badgers: 2 - 2 :Cheltenham

Stroud’s young Badgers side is slowly coming-of-age and a strong performance with goals from Jamie Penmore and Fin Dixon saw them earn a deserved draw against Cheltenham on Saturday morning.

Stroud Unfortunate to Lose

27-February-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 3 - 4 :Lansdown A

Stroud produced a tremendous display of hard-fought hockey on Saturday and certainly did not deserve to lose out against Lansdown. With the home side still looking for promotion, Stroud felt they had a tough game on their hands, but it was the visitors who impressed from the start. Andy Hines and Nick Hitchcroft looked solid in midfield and a returning Ben Orme was keen as mustard up front, his efforts earning him man-of-the-match. A strong back line held firm as Lansdown made several inroads, but Stroud looked more like scoring first. This they duly did, a nice passing move left Scott Patient with the ball, top D, and he finished precisely for 1-0. A few minutes later, Stroud’s relentless efforts paid off once again with a superb finish by Orme. Although rocked on their heels, Lansdown came back with a goal before half time.
Second half and Stroud still piled on the pressure, Calum Norman working nicely with Hines in midfield. Somewhat against the run of play, Lansdown were then rather fortuitous to be awarded a short corner from which they equalised. This stifled Stroud’s game, but they pulled themselves together again and more strong attacking gave them another short corner. A fine strike by Rob Gleed found the backboard. Lansdown pushed again and equalised, before scoring the winner from a ridiculously tight angle. Stroud fought to the end, but they were unable to pull the scores level, despite arguably being the better side on the day.
This was a strong performance, one of which they should be proud, and augers well for next week’s home game against Cheltenham C.

Better Performance Earns Ladies a Draw

27-February-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 2 :Clevedon

Stroud, sponsored by Ecotricity, were looking to regain some good form after a heavy defeat the week before at the hands of Bristol University, facing Clevedon at home with the prospect of a hard physical game. Stroud were hit early and gave the ball away to Clevedon at their defensive end - Clevedon capitalised to take an early lead. Stroud raised their game, playing some good hockey, but were unable to equalise before half time. Strong defensive work prevented Clevedon from extending their lead. The opening throes of the second half saw Stroud play some of their best hockey of the entire season, passing the ball with pace and accuracy, advancing on the Clevedon goal numerous times. Stroud’s first goal came from a good pass from Lucy Bishop, finding Lucy Moir on the edge of the D. She was able to place the ball past the Clevedon keeper and into the goal, poached on the line by Angharad Roberts. Shortly afterwards, a solo run from Moir was finished with a beautiful strike to give Stroud the lead. Defending tightened and persistence from Stroud prevented Clevedon from scoring until the last minute of the game. Clevedon were awarded a penalty flick when the ball was stopped on the line by a Stroud foot. A draw was a fair result. Player of the match was Lucy Moir.

M2 Left Deflated

20-February-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 4 :Sherborne

On a sunny afternoon, Stroud Men’s 2nd XI started their N4 League fixture in determined fashion. By rights they should have been a few goals up by half time, as they produced some nice flowing hockey at times during the first half. Their midfield of Scott Patient, Calum Norman, Nick Hitchcroft and Jeremy Kelsey looked potent, but as soon as the home side stopped the passing game, they looked ordinary. Patient’s unerring efforts were rewarded with the man-of-the-match award. Craig Wathen and Tim Norman worked hard to make space up front and it was Norman who gave Stroud the lead with a trademark stop and strike from a narrowing angle ! Shortly afterwards, Sherborne were rather fortunate to equalise from a short corner. Keeper, Kev Sinden, had the shot covered but it took a wicked deflection that looped over his legs. The second half was a harder battle and an injury saw the side rejigged. Sherborne hit back before Calum Norman went on a run from the right. He took the ball into the D and shot on his reverse, Wathen getting a final touch for Stroud’s second. Sherborne’s hitting game left Andy Murray, Rob Gleed and Matt Watts under pressure at the back. The visitors’ barrage forced a further 2 reverse stick goals, both strikes wrong-footing Sinden. Despite unstinting efforts to get back into the game, Stroud’s lack of passing proved their downfall in a match they could have won.

STROUD A LITTLE WOBBLY IN MIDFIELD

20-February-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 1 - 3 :Colwall & Malvern 2

Having won the away fixture against Colwall & Malvern, Stroud team were keen to achieve the same result at home. Stroud took a while to settle and all 3 Colwall goals came from the same move down the open space they found on the lefthand side of the pitch, attacking in threes and overloading the Stroud defence. During the second half the midfield moved with more determination, creating sufficient space to allow Vicky Raynes to move up the pitch, into the circle and score a deserved consolation goal. Other moves from forwards Carrie Sanders and Karen Whitehead looked convincing, but Stroud lacked the final touch to put the ball in the back of the net. Jordan Turnball at right back was awarded the ‘player of the match’ award for her strong performance.

Defeat Leaves Promotion Hopes in Tatters

13-February-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 3 :Hereford A

Stroud visited Hereford on Saturday with just the bare 11 players, 3 of whom are regular 3rd teamers. On a positively grass-like bumpy pitch, Stroud managed to produce some pretty slick hockey at times during the first half, all of the team working hard. Callum Lees did not look out of place at right back, being encouraged by the more experienced Andy Murray, Mike Hallett and Rob Gleed. Kev Sinden mad several smart saves, too. Stroud came close on several occasions, their movement up front proving tricky to defend against, but their efforts were ultimately in vain. The second half saw Hereford score a couple of soft goals and a sweet short corner strike from Rob Gleed was the only glimmer of hope. A 3rd Hereford goal spelt the end. Next week sees Stroud back at home, this time against Sherborne. They will be hoping to recoup some of their lost players to bolster the side.

DENIED A DRAW!

13-February-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 0 - 1 :Bourton Vale

Stroud started well in this league fixture when Pauline Edgington “scored” from a short-corner within the first ten minutes - unfortunately, despite the ball hitting the backboard, the goal was disallowed.
The Bourton team was more forceful on the ball than the Stroud squad and wrested the ball from the Stroud team time after time.
The Bourton goal was a deflection into the goal during the second half. The second half saw Stroud's defence rebuff wave after wave of attack, both Di Furlong and Andrea Preston making some excellent tackles to regain possession for Stroud.
Despite the best efforts of the Stroud forwards, the team did not have the final flourish to score the equaliser and the team's run of 6 games without losing came to a frustrating end. The forthcoming run of home games gives Stroud the opportunity to return to form.

Real Struggle Finally Sees Stroud Win Through

6-February-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 0 :Lydney A

The visit to Lydney for their N4 League game on Saturday provided Stroud with a gruelling encounter, very different from their first one at home when Stroud were 13-0 victors. The visitors started brightly enough, having the better of the early exchanges, but the dogged opposition spoiled to such extent that Stroud found headway difficult to make. It took almost ½ an hour to break the deadlock from a sweet move starting with Andy Hines and Craig Wathen. The pass to Tim Norman was controlled quickly before he released the ball to the advancing rocket that was Rich Gealer down the right. He had time to pick his spot, beating the keeper easily. A few nervous moments ensued before half time, but man-of-the-match Matt Watts helped keep the foresters at arms length.
The second half was played in a similar vein, Stroud still trying to pass the ball around. A couple of chances went begging when Rob Gleed put the ball in from deep, before Norman tricked the defence and flicked the ball home, only to be harshly adjudged to have played the ball with his foot. Rich Cartmell worked some openings with Scott Patient and several short corners were won. Three players then bulldozed Norman and Gleed went close from the short corner. Hermes Carlyon and Andy Murray had to be alert to the danger of a Lydney breakaway, particularly as a one-goal lead was looking a little precarious. They mopped up with the help of Kev Sinden in goal. He produced several fine saves to deny the home side an undeserved point. The last 10 minutes of a dour battle saw Stroud just willing the whistle to signal victory and relief was evidenced by a collective sigh as Stroud won 3 very hard points.

A Tale of Two Halves

6-February-2010 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 6 :Newent

This was the proverbial 'game of two halves' for Stroud Men's 1st XI on Saturday.
Playing host to Newent, the home team were in positive mood and confident they could produce a winning performance. In the first half, Stroud played with purpose and pace, snapping into the 50/50s - in the second half, they didn't !
Stroud's superior pace and passing saw them dominate the opening exchanges and they were rewarded with two early short corners, both of which they converted ; the first from a Matt Waite drag flick and the second from sweeper Rob Fynn's clean strike. 2-nil up at half time and Stroud were confident of going on to close out the game.
The second half, however, was a different story altogether, as all the pace, purpose and snap appeared to have drained out of the side. Newent, to be fair, raised their game considerably after their half time team talk and came out fighting. Stroud, suffering from enforced changes due to injuries, had lost all of their shape and embarked on 35mins of what can only be described as 'hari-kari' hockey. Newent were back level within 5mins of the restart, their second goal a blistering reverse strike scored from an acute angle. By 10mins in, Newent were in front. Stroud couldn't keep the ball long enough to do anything purposeful with it. Newent, buoyed by their resurgence, swept forward like a tidal wave and overwhelmed a Stroud defence that truly looked all at sea.
After Newent's 4th goal Stroud did catch a glimmer of hope when Dan Clifford found skipper Waring in the D for him to deflect the ball home. With the game well-poised at 4-3, Stroud could have been forgiven for thinking they could still get some something out of the game. Newent had other ideas, though, and it was they who closed the game out, applying pressure with a series of short corners, two of which they converted to finish the game 6-3 winners.
Stroud will have to hope their injured players return to fitness quickly and that the team is able to find whatever was lost during their half-time team talk !

Ladies Bounce Back with a Solid Win

6-February-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 3 - 1 :Somerset Gryphons

Stroud (sponsored by Ecotricity) came into this game looking to lift themselves following last week’s heavy defeat and not wanting to drop any more points. They started the game slowly and for the first twenty minutes Stroud looked tired and allowed Somerset to gain a lot of the possession. It was no surprise when Somerset opened the scoring during this period with a solo effort. The last ten minutes of the first half saw Stroud begin to wake up and get their game back. They started passing well and making more fifty-fifty balls. There were good attacks down the right by Grace Cullinane and skilful play by Elaine Noone in the Somerset D gained Stroud their first short corner, from which Lucy Moir put Stroud back on level terms. Stroud stepped up their game in the second half and kept piling on the pressure, switching the ball well around the back and making some good runs through the middle. Despite some good defending from the Somerset keeper and back, Moir made a penetrating run down the left and shot at goal, the rebound was pounced upon by Angharad Roberts and Stroud took the lead. Sterling defensive work from Stroud kept some speedy Somerset players out of the goal and just before full time, Roberts was there to pick up the ball on the line and make it a convincing 3-1 win. Special mention goes to Sarah Tudor for some great defensive work

Stroud 2nd XI ladies notch up another win!

6-February-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 1 - 0 :Blockley 2

Stroud were firing on all cylinders for this match against Blockley and the team's pressure in the first half was relentless. It was frustrating that balls missed the net by inches. The space Stroud had in the first half was trimmed by Blockley in the second, keeper Helen Summers called upon to make a couple of crucial saves to prevent Blockley from scoring.
It was some good passing by the forwards that eventually led to a goal from Sandra Glass, returning to the team after injury. Player of the match Kathy Williams was relentless in her determination to hold the lead and Jordan Turnball, Heidi Hepher-Dalton and Ellen Creech were excellent in support.
Next week the team needs to focus on retaining its structure, with a midfield, forward line and defence - the players' natural enthusiasm for scoring and winning can lead to a breakdown in formation.

Under-Strength 3rd XI Well Beaten

31-January-2010 :: Mens 3XI: 3 - 10 :Cleevillians A

Stroud turned up with only 9 players but their opposition kindly donated 2 to bring the numbers up. Still, the first half proved to be a lesson in passing and simple hockey as Cleevillians played the simple passing game and soon had the game beyond Stroud. Ashley Hicks made some telling saves in goal, while the wily Bob Brewer worked hard with youngsters Callum Lees and Ed McCollum in defence. Zac Lees did well again and Calum Norman looked an assured midfielder. Tim Norman helped make some inroads and Luke Palmer came close to pulling a goal back before half time. The second half was altogether different. Much better passing and movement gave Stroud more opportunities and eventually their battling paid off, Tim Norman’s fierce strike simply too strong for the defender on the line. Minutes later another sublime reverse stick goal from Calum Norman, gave Stroud even more confidence. The visitors earned several short corners and Palmer finished off one of them in emphatic style after a scramble, thus giving Stroud a respectable 3-goal haul. On the strength of their second half performance, there are good signs for the 3rd XI.

Students too Good for Battling Stroud

30-January-2010 :: Mens 1XI: 1 - 2 :Bristol Uni A

Omega sponsored Stroud travelled to Bristol on Saturday to take on the high-flying student side of Bristol University.
The game was played at blistering pace and Stroud found themselves on the back-foot for much of it. Resolute defending and some great instinct saves from keeper Dave Cruickshank kept Stroud in the game. For all their possession, Bristol couldn't find a way through in open play but eventually scored the opening goal from a well-worked short corner. Stroud played well to stay in touch and pressed high and hard to try and deny the opposition attacking opportunities.
With the score at 1-0 at half time, Stroud felt they were in with a chance but knew they would have to be clinical with any chances presented to them. The students continued to apply pressure and the defence of Rob Fynn, Carlyon, Jarman and Dove had little respite. Again the student side dominated, but couldn't find a goal until midway through the half. Once again it was from a short corner, Bristols' captain flicking the ball beyond Cruickshanks' despairing dive.
Despite falling two goals behind Stroud showed some great resolve in the last 20 minutes to fight their way back into the game. Rob Fynn gave them hope when his short corner strike was deflected in by a Bristol defender. Stroud rallied as they sensed a point could still be achieved and had the students on the back foot for the first time in the game. Rich Fynn almost leveled the score in the last few minutes but was foiled by a diving defender.
In truth, a draw would have been unfair on the University side as they dominated the game and were a little faster and stronger in possession, but Stroud did themselves no harm with this battling and disciplined performance.

Ladies Well Beaten by Marauding Foresters

30-January-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 7 :Lydney 2

Sponsored by Ecotricity, Stroud travelled away flying high on the back of several recent wins. Slightly under strength, they were still confident of a good performance. However, Lydney had scored their first goal before most of the Stroud team had touched it. The first fifteen minutes Stroud played like they were asleep, gifting Lydney opportunity after opportunity to gain possession and put pressure on the goal. After this first poor spell, Stroud started to lift their game but it was not good enough and the score at half time was Lydney 4, Stroud 0. The second half was much better for Stroud and they started to play like they knew they could, passing the ball and creating opportunities. Lydney kept piling on the pressure and Stroud felt the absence of Sarah Tudor in the pivotal centre back position. However, Stroud battled on, not letting their heads drop, and eventually an opening was created, from which Elaine Noone scored. Lydney added a few more well taken goals before a final goal from a short corner that was scored by Claire Crosthwaite. Despite the final score, Stroud enjoyed the second half and the score line didn’t reflect the possession. They were just unable to stop a Lydney team for which nothing could go wrong.

Badgers Beaten but Promising Signs are there

30-January-2010 :: Mens Badgers: 1 - 8 :Lansdown

Hamish Norman’s goal following a Jamie Penmore run was just reward for Stroud’s improved second half performance. They made better use of the space and width of the pitch to improve the chances and kept possession. Up against a strong Lansdown side, they were always up against it and were well beaten by a well-drilled side intent on playing a nice passing game. Credit must go to Stroud, however, as they showed much potential for the future.

Stroud 2nd XI Bounce Back in Style

30-January-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 3 - 1 :Newent A

Having been gutted by last week’s diabolical N4 League performance, Stroud Men’s 2nd XI bounced back with a pretty convincing win against an ever-competitive Newent side. They were made to do it the hard way, however, despite several early forays into the visitors’ D, going one down midway through the first half.
Their bright start ushered in the return of Andy Hines to compliment Nick Hitchcroft, Scott Patient and Zac Lees in the midfield. They created some good moves, feeding Tim Norman and Craig Wathen up front. Wathen was his usual exuberant self, relishing the chance to run with the ball against his old club. His efforts won him the man-of-the-match award. Meanwhile, Stroud’s assured defensive unit, again seeing Andy Murray sweeping, soaked up Newent pressure. Rob Gleed and Matt Watts looked comfortable and another strong performance from Rob Waite at centre back completed the foundation of Stroud’s team. Stroud wanted a win and going a goal down only gave them more incentive. On the stroke of half time, another Wathen run saw him feed Norman in the D. Forced out wide, Norman then earned himself a fine by scoring from his erstwhile trademark “impossible angle” to even the score.
With this fillip, Stroud emerged from the break knowing the game was theirs for the taking. With solidity at the back, backed up by Kev Sinden in goal, Stroud were able to drive forward. Patient used his youthful pace to good effect and this was a perfect foil for the more mature styles of Hitchcroft and Hines. Lees was put under pressure, too, but he cam through unscathed. Stroud’s hunger for goals was soon rewarded. Patient’s fine strike at Norman was deftly deflected past the keeper to give the home side the lead at last. It was not over yet, however, but another cross was instinctively deflected goalwards by Norman and it crept in the corner, sealing his hat trick.
Newent wouldn’t let it lie, however, and Stroud had a battle during the final 10 minutes. Perhaps they should have sat back, but they pressed forward and found themselves subjected to a counter-attacking onslaught. Watts, Waite, Gleed and Murray must have felt like they were subjected to a bush-tucker trial towards the end, but relief was to come eventually. The end-to-end stuff finally stopped, seeing Stroud victorious in an enjoyable, hard-fought match which gave the home side a resounding boost.

Another Win Chalked Up

23-January-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 3 - 2 :Yate 2

Stroud started the game very positively, enjoying the majority of the possession in the first fifteen minutes. On a bouncy pitch passes were accurate and players were working well with each other, with a lovely pass from Claire Crosthwaite allowing Lucy Bishop to score a cheeky goal through the Yate keeper legs. Stroud kept pushing forward and a breakaway attack from the right allowed Angela Bridges through to take Stroud to 2-0 with a well aimed long range flick. Ball pace dropped off slightly towards the end of the first half and Yate gained more possession. Stroud defence worked hard to keep Yate out with some good saves from Aleasha Holder. The second half continued in much the same way as the end of the first with Yate piling on the pressure, eventually finding a way in and scoring. Yate kept it up and there was sterling defence by Katy Hawkins, Sarah Tudor and Bridges to keep them at bay. Less frequent attacks from Stroud came from Angharad Roberts and Hattie White, leading to an opportunity seized by Roberts to slot the ball past the Yate keeper to make it 3-1. There was just time for Yate to attack once more and score, but it was not enough to take the win from Stroud. Player of the match was Angharad Roberts.

Stroud Unlucky Not to Score

23-January-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 0 - 0 :Newent 3

The Stroud team tried a new formation this week and took some time to settle into it. Newent were able to apply sustained pressure from the beginning of the match and it was only the determination of the Stroud defence that prevented Newent gaining an early advantage. Stroud had a number of near misses with 2 direct hits from short corners being saved and several shots on goal from open play being kept out by the Newent keeper.
As usual, Becky Stevens was rock solid in defence and this week's player of the day was a 3-way split between Hannah Scott, Vicky Raynes and Pauline Edgington.

Fynn Hat-trick sees off Lydney

23-January-2010 :: Mens 1XI: 4 - 1 :Lydney

Forward Rich Fynn got amongst the goals in this game against Lydney, scoring a hat-trick in the sides 4-1 victory at Stratford Park.
Lydney started the game the stronger of the two sides, attacking with purpose. They went close with a couple of reverse stick strikes before a strong cross was met at the back post and turned in for the first goal of the game.
Stroud began to find their feet and put some good passing moves together, Joe Jarman linking well with Liam Tunney down the left and Brad Mears and Matt Waite started to gain control of the midfield battle. Stroud were full of attacking confidence despite going a goal behind and skipper Waring went close with a flicked effort and Matt Waite had a drag flicked short corner saved. Stroud then put together a great passing move to open up the Lydney defence; Rob Fynn drilling a strong ball to forward Waring who in turn found a breaking Tunney. Rich Fynn collected Tunney's pass and worked a shooting opportunity - drilling a low reverse stick strike sweetly into the far corner for Stroud's equaliser. 1-1 at half time.
Second half saw a more purposeful Stroud dominate the attacking chances and possession. Right back Dove continued to apply pressure by overlapping down the right and Man-of-the-Match Dan Clifford provided the cutting edge with a number of dangerous runs and crosses. Stroud built the pressure patiently, waiting for their chance to take the lead. They duly took their chance from their second short corner of the half, sweeper Rob Fynn drilling a sweetly struck low shot passed the keeper.
Rich Fynn collected his second soon afterwards, deflecting a rising Dan Clifford shot into the net to extend Stroud's lead. He then completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot after Dan Clifford was denied a shooting opportunity, getting bundled over in the D.
A good all round performance saw Stroud win their 3rd game in a row.

A Result to Forget

23-January-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 3 :Lansdown B

After last week’s superb performance, Saturday saw Stroud Men’s 2nd XI slump to an inglorious defeat at the hands of one-from-bottom side Lansdown B who had been whipped 11:0 by Stroud in their first encounter this season. Apart from Matt Watts getting on the scoresheet to eventually put Stroud in front, there was little to cheer about. The home side equalised with 30 seconds of the first half remaining, after Stroud had yet again committed too many players forward and got caught on the break. The second half should have seen Stroud revert to their neat passing game but this failed to materialise and they soon ended up chasing the game as Lansdown took the lead. In their desperate attempt to claw a result from the game, Stroud let in another and hopes of promotion look to have been seriously dashed.

Performance Full of Heart from ten-man 3rd XI

17-January-2010 :: Mens 3XI: 1 - 6 :Glos City C

Stroud unexpectedly found themselves with only 10 men to play table-topping Gloucester C on a frosty Sunday morning. Their performance was quite superb at times, despite being a player down. Gloucester ultimately made the extra player tell, passing the ball around. Stroud, however, made every effort to do the same, encouraged by captain-for-the-day Luke Palmer. Leaving Andy Biddell to cut a lone path up-front, Stroud’s defence of Andy Murray, youngsters Stuart Holt and Callum Lees, were put under immense pressure. Zac Lees worked exceptionally hard on the left, as did Calum Norman on the right with virtual OAP Tim Norman given an unfamiliar roving-all-over-the-place centre midfield role along with the indefatigable Barney Franklin. Craig Lacey made some outstanding saves to deny Gloucester. Stroud really made great efforts to pass the ball around and it was clear that with a full compliment of players, they would have given Gloucester a real run for their money. Everybody worked their socks off to create chances as well as tracking back to defend. Their consolation came from Tim Norman whose run from halfway was finished off from the top of the D and this spurred Stroud to press again. With the score now at 3:1 they were still just in the game, but Gloucester found some composure and that was Stroud’s final undoing. This was far from a disgrace as Stroud 3rd XI looked impressive and there are real signs of good things to come.

Goal in the First Five Minutes Secures Victory

16-January-2010 :: Ladies 2XI: 1 - 0 :Lydney 4

The Stroud side looked impressive in this away League match, with some excellent passing, movement and ball control.
The team's determination was rewarded by a very early Sophie Payne goal which was well worked from the first pushback ! Hannah Scott was unlucky that 2 cracking shots on goal went just wide, whilst Becky Stevens and Vicky Raynes played well in midfield to ferry the ball between the defence and the forwards.
With only 10 players, a tiring Stroud side did well to hold on to its lead in the last quarter of the match when the Lydney attacks began to make inroads. The concentration, steadfastness and belief in its own ability meant that the team started the New Decade with a win.

A Rusty Performance but a Good Result

16-January-2010 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 1 :Westbury and UB A

Stroud started the game very sluggishly. The weather over the previous weeks has prevented any training or preparation for the first League game of 2010. The team’s defence was looking very rusty and a few poor passes gave the impression Stroud might leak a goal. This proved correct when a bad pass was pounced upon by a Westbury forward who broke down the right wing and cross well for the left winger to score. Stroud were determined not to let they heads drop and a good break forced a short corner, slotted away at the left post by Rob Fynn. Stroud pressed on and finished the half at 1:1.
The second half started brightly and after several missed chances, Richard Fynn scored a superb reverse stick strike past a bemused Westbury keeper. Stroud continued to defend strongly with the midfield pairing of Matt Waite and Brad Mears, while Dan Clifford was looking ever-dangerous, breaking from right midfield. A break from Mears in the last five minutes of the game secured a short corner which was converted by Stroud drag-flick specialist, Matt Waite to seal a nice win for the new decade.

Awesome Dudes !

16-January-2010 :: Mens 2XI: 5 - 0 :Gloucester City B

With all the snow over the last few weeks, Stroud’s players have been unable to pick up a hockey stick in anger, so the result of this N4 League match was unpredictable. Stroud belied their slothfulness, coming out of the blocks in style. Unusually for them, their passing, calling, moving off the ball and even their stopping seemed to click into place quickly. Craig Wathen and Nick Hitchcroft bossed the midfield leaving youngsters Calum Norman and Rich Cartmell to add pace on the flanks. A nice move down the left saw Tim Norman gather the ball, wait for the call and pass across the front of goal for son Calum Norman to put the home side ahead on 10 minutes. This was a powerful incentive for Stroud to keep pressing forward and Wathen began to relish the chance along with Scott Patient. Gloucester showed some good skills, however, Andy Murray and man-of-the-match, Rob Waite, being kept busy at the back. They, along with Rob Gleed and Matt Watts were vigilant. Murray and Waite made some telling interceptions as they read the Gloucester moves. Half time came with Stroud a goal to the good.
The second half was more impressive. With the confidence of a strong defence at their backs, Stroud’s midfield and forward line produced many flowing moves in what was one of their best performances of the season. Smart movement from Tim Norman in the D was spotted by Wathen. His pass gave Norman the opening and he cracked the ball home for 2:0. Moments later, Cartmell made it 3:0 with a sweet strike high up the netting. That all but killed off the visitors, although a few breakaways ensued, only to be snuffed out by Patient’s hard work and Waite’s troops at the back. Picking the ball early, the defence started many of the attacks and, as Stroud enjoyed more possession and control, they swept forward. Calum Norman drove strongly right to left, into the D and struck the ball perfectly with an exquisite reverse-stick strike into the far corner. In the closing minutes, a rare short corner was despatched in trademark style by Gleed to round off an impressive victory which takes Stroud to second spot in the division.

Just the Start Needed for the Ladies 1st XI

16-January-2010 :: Ladies 1XI: 1 - 0 :Redland 2

Finishing the first half of the season on a high (10 points in last 4 games), meant expectations were high for the first game after the break. The odds were stacked against us; lack of training, festive excesses and a 0-2 loss at the last meeting. Stroud started strongly, applying pressure from the start. Redland matched the pressure with frequent attacks on goal, including several short corners. Solid defence from the back four thwarted their efforts and confident keeping from Aleasha Holder forced several attempts wide. Half way through the first half Stroud, took the lead from a short corner with a nifty drag flick rebound from Angela Bridges. A stand out run from Claire Crosthwaite and hard work from the middle 4 ensured the lead was kept up to the break. Tiredness showed at the start of the second half, and despite a stick to the ear for Angharad Roberts, a disallowed goal for Redland spurred on the team and renewed vigour in the last 10 ensured play was kept in their 22. 100% effort and a determined approach from the whole team ensured the Stroud victory.
Special mention to Bridges for sturdy defence, assured drives up the pitch and her goal.

Ladies Cruise to Victory

12-December-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 6 - 0 :Dursley

With several players out this week, Stroud (sponsored by Ecotricity) were looking forward to a local derby against Dursley, who they haven’t faced in a league match for a couple of seasons. The first half saw Stroud piling on the pressure and enjoying the majority of the possession, with good interplay in the midfield and up front. Passing looked good and the hockey was flowing down both wings. Any attack from Dursley was short-lived as they were promptly dealt with by the Stroud defence. Stroud had numerous chances in the first half, but the Dursley keeper was up to the task and played well to keep Stroud off the score sheet. Shortly before half time, Stroud were awarded a short corner from which the ball was slipped to Angela Bridges who flicked it into the bottom corner to give Stroud the lead. In the second half, Stroud continued playing strongly and began to wear down Dursley and create more openings. This allowed five more goals to be added, two from Angharad Roberts, two for Lucy Bishop and one for Claire Crosthwaite, much deserved as she played with skill that allowed others to score. Special mention is made of Kathy Williams who stepped up to play and had a great game.

STROUD GAINS 3 POINTS AGAINST 3RD IN LEAGUE

12-December-2009 :: Ladies 2XI: 3 - 2 :Cheltenham CS 2

This victory against the team that stands 3rd in the league was an excellent one for the Stroud team whose performance was impressive Cheltenham Civil Service opened the scoring with an early goal, but Sophie Payne showed her mettle with a cracking solo run and equaliser. Civil Service moved ahead once more, and again Stroud countered when a short corner struck by Pauline Edgington hit home. At 2:2 it was then Stroud went ahead when a well taken goal from Becky Stevens found its mark. The Stroud team was then put under intense pressure by the Civil Service side and keeper Helen Summers was called into action a number of times, but the determination and skill of the Stroud side meant that Civil Service was outplayed and the game, and 3 points, belonged to Stroud. Another great performance from Heidi Hepher-Dalton won her the player of the match award.

Men Dig for Victory

12-December-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 2 :Old Bristolians

Following a tough couple of matches, Stroud seemed buoyed by the support of new coach, England Veteran’s captain Derek Pittaway, and started the game off at a stern pace. A flowing move from Stroud was finished succinctly with a Dan Clifford reverse stick shot into the top of the net. OBs got back into the game with a controversial goal after a scramble in the D to leave the half time score at 1-1.

OBs definitely capitalised early in the second half, taking a narrow lead. Stroud players’ heads didn’t go down, however, and some great defending from Jeremy Kelsey, the pace and stamina of Brad Mears and Dan Clifford in the midfield, kept Stroud in the game. The team worked hard to win several short corners, finally resulting in a drag flick goal from Matt Waite.

A three-pass move left 3 Stroud players queuing up in the D for Stroud’s third, Alex Waring being the closest to slot home the winner.

Victory to bring Christmas Cheer

12-December-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 4 - 2 :Leominster A

An hour and a half’s drive to Leominster for their last N4 League fixture before Christmas was a daunting task, particularly as the home side are a difficult team to beat. Stroud’s early pressure was thwarted by Leominster’s spoiling tactics as they defended stolidly. Youngsters, Calum Norman and Matt Price were supported well in midfield by Nick Hitchcroft and Alan Edwards, but the former left the field for several minutes having been hit by a raised clearance. This failed to stop Stroud’s growing confidence, however, with new sweeper, Andy Murray, excelling at the back and pushing forward with aplomb when needed. As time went by, the visitors began to think they would never turn their advantage into goals, but a quick turn by captain Tim Norman at the top of the D, led to his shot beating the keeper but rebounding off the far post for Craig Wathen to pounce before half time. Wathen was on target again early in the second half as Stroud continued to exploit the space. Leominster pulled a goal back. Stroud’s defence were kept busy as Leominster sensed a come-back in the offing, Rob Gleed and Matt Watts being tested along with keeper Kev Sinden. They did not falter, however and the visitors were encouraged by a great work ethic. The pressure told as they forced Leominster into a rash pass across midfield, directly to Wathen. His sharp interplay with Edwards led to Wathen’s 3rd goal which all but sealed the home side’s fate. As they restarted, Tim Norman issued the order to mark tightly … and Stroud failed to do just that, letting in Leominster immediately to put the difference back to a solitary goal. This needed another turn of the screw, delivered soon afterwards as a scrambled clearance gave Gleed a shot which he despatched cleanly for a 4-2 lead. This time, the team resolutely defended their goal and came away with another win to keep them firmly in 3rd spot over Christmas and the New Year. This was a super performance yet again, particularly from Wathen and man-of-the-match Murray.

Deserved Point for Ladies 2nds

5-December-2009 :: Ladies 2XI: 1 - 1 :Wotton Bassett 3

Stroud won a well-deserved point from this away fixture against Wootton Bassett with the goal being well-taken by Laura Thwaite.
The game was well played by both sides and Stroud's keeper, Helen Summers, made some inspired and essential saves to hold the score level. This week the Stroud midfield really took command of the game as the players reverted to their more familiar formation. Midfielder Becky Stevens was player-of-the-match for her tireless efforts, both defending and moving the ball forward. The Stroud side went ahead early in the second half and Stroud did all it could to maintain its lead but the Wootton Bassett goal was a strong hit from a seemingly impossible angle in open play. Sophie Payne did some good work on the right wing, ably supported by Jade Crosthwaite.

Scoreline Poor Reflection of Stroud Efforts

5-December-2009 :: Mens 3XI: 1 - 5 :Cleevillians A

The 3rd XI arrived with a young bare-eleven and faced a Cleevillians side sporting some experienced old-timers.
Stroud started with some excellent defending from Ed McCollum and Rob Waite in the centre, but 20 minutes of Cleevillians' pressure eventually resulted in a short corner, converted succinctly with a drag flick into the top of the goal. Another two goals followed from Cleevillians as their experience clearly unfolded.
Good midfield passing between Nigel Sherwood and Andy Hines brought about a breakaway by Stroud, opening the goal up for Rupert Cary to slot home Stroud’s goal. The last 2 Cleevillian goals came through age and pace down the left and right.
Credit goes to the Stroud team, however, their heads neer going down once. The temperament and speed of the game was consistent throughout, but the resulting 5-1 scoreline definitely wasn’t a fair reflection of Stroud’s efforts.

Draw a Fair Result

5-December-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 2 :Thornbury

Stroud Ladies, sponsored by Ecotricity, took on Thornbury for the first time this Saturday. With two wins from two in previous weeks, things were looking good before the match. Despite a thorough warm-up, Thornbury were out hard and Stroud were caught napping in the first five minutes, Thornbury being allowed to score two goals. Caught by surprise, Stroud then woke up and began playing. They started to make some good advancing runs down the right, but could not get past the stalwart Thornbury defenders. Thornbury had a couple more chances but good defending by Sarah Tudor and Katy Hawkins prevented them from converting them. The second half saw Stroud come out fighting and they began to play some nice flowing hockey, passing around and using their speed to gain more possession at the Thornbury end. Chances were created and short corners were awarded. Stroud scored two goals from short corner routines, one scored by Angharad Roberts after a goalmouth scramble and one cleanly taken by Claire Crosthwaite after a pass from the top of the. A draw was a fair result, giving the ladies another valuable point. Player-of-the-game went to Sarah Tudor.

Hard-Fought Win Just the Tonic

5-December-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 1 :Cirencester A

Having been near-humiliated last week, Stroud Men’s 2nd XI needed a good performance to boost their confidence. They got a dream start with their first attack within a couple of minutes. The ball broke for Calum Norman in the opposition 23 and he slid a pass through to Craig Wathen whose cool finish put the visitors in the driving seat. The home side began 3 points ahead of Stroud and did not relish a home defeat, so they soon piled on the pressure. It was end-to-end stuff, both sides creating chances. Stroud were resilient and worked really well to support each other. Man-of-the-match Rich McColl, minded the Stroud D like a dog guarding its kennel, more than ably assisted by Matt Watts, Rob Gleed and Mike Hallett. Having subjected Stroud to extreme pressure, the home side equalised midway through the first half, but Stroud soon took the lead again when Ben Orme’s strong running led to a ball heading outside the left post. Calum Norman latched onto it in true winger-fashion to claim another goal. A frustrated Cirencester tried in vain to get back into the game, their many short corners coming to nothing. Orme, Tim Norman and Wathen ran the home defence ragged while Scott Patient, Calum Norman, Nick Hitcroft, Andy Murray and Alan Edwards worked hard to nail control of the midfield. As McColl staked his claim to man-of-the-match with his indefatigable work, Watts attempted to usurp the position, even popping up in Cirencester’s D ! Kev Sinden produced some fine saves in the Stroud goal as Cirencester pressed for another equaliser, but Stroud’s blend of youth and experience was working well and a memorable victory was theirs, taking them back to 3rd place in the N4 League HG1 Division.

Strong 2nd Half Showing by Badgers

28-November-2009 :: Mens Badgers: 3 - 4 :Wotton-under-Edge

Starting with only 8 players, Stroud went 2 goals down within 10 minutes and had their work cut out to contain the sprightly Wotton youngsters. Going up to 10 players midway through the first half improved matters but they went into the break 4 goals behind. They recouped, looking impressive and expansive in the second half. Movement of ball and players was vastly improved. Hamish Norman was accomplished at right back under Rob Fynn’s guidance in defence. Macauley made some good stops in goal to deny Wotton an extended lead. Ed Paddock grew in confidence on the left side of defence. Fin Dixon worked hard and began to pass the ball better in the second half, before being rewarded with a goal. Man-of-the-match was Jamie Penmore who scored a couple of fine goals and impressed with his more intelligent running in the second half. Gabriel showed good awareness up front and Tom and Joe Freer worked hard in midfield. Thanks to Tim Norman and Rob Fynn for providing the mentoring on the pitch and well done the youngsters for nearly turning what looked like a big defeat into a draw with a superb second half performance.

STROUD PUSHES GOAL PAST LEAGUE GIANTS !

28-November-2009 :: Ladies 2XI: 1 - 7 :Chipping Camden

Chipping Camden is a new team in the league, formed from Blockley 1st XI - a team which plays in a league several divisions higher than the Stroud 2nd XI. The experience, strength and skill of the Chipping Camden team showed. Stroud conceded 5 goals in the first half and then just before half time the team reformed, and the new formation handled its opposition more effectively. Kathy Williams, Becky Stevens and Lucy Hill did a fantastic job of stemming the Chipping Camden attack, but player of the match went to captain Vicky Raynes whose performance in goal was awesome. Normally a mid-fielder, Raynes saved at least a dozen shots on goal which meant Stroud's performance was significantly better than that of other teams against this top of the league team ! Stroud did not concede another goal until the final ten minutes of the match.

Stroud's goal came from a short corner struck by Pauline Edgington, touched by Carrie Sanders and put away by Kathy Williams on the rebound. The team was delighted to get a goal against such strong opponents.

In the space of 3 weeks, Stroud 2nd X1 are playing the top three teams in its division – challenging !

No Excuses - Ross were Better

28-November-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 8 :Ross-on-Wye

A little depressing for the home side as they came up against a really strong Ross team who are currently riding high on top pf the division. There were no excuses to be made as Stroud were soundly outplayed for much of the match and their only consolation was a Rich McColl goal midway through the second half. Next week they will need a little lift to boost their confidence but at the end of the day you have to take it on the chin and accept defeat to a well-drilled and better outfit.

Great Performance Brings Another Win

28-November-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 7 - 1 :Old Bristolians 3

A great win for Stroud to help their goal difference. At home, they awaited the arrival of bottom-placed OBs’ 3rd team, determined not to underestimate them. Stroud piled on the pressure from the start, with quick passing and attacking. A solid performance during the first half saw Stroud go into half time 4-0 to the good, goals coming from Lucy Moir (2), Angela Bridges and Angharad Roberts. Attacking play from Lucy Bishop and Grace Cullinane down the right hand side opened up the OBs’ defence. Stroud also came out strong again in the second half to regain their shape and pile on the pressure. Skilful ball skills from Claire Crosthwaite and Elaine Noone in the centre created more openings and allowed Stroud to convert 3 more opportunities, Moir adding another to her total and Julie Whiting scoring 2. A solid display from the defence kept OBs out until the last 5 minutes, when a lapse in concentration allowed them to score one past Aleasha Holder. This was a great performance from the whole team.

Victory at Last

21-November-2009 :: Mens 3XI: 7 - 4 :Newent

Stroud Men’s 3rd XI got their first N4 League victory of the season in a goal-strewn fixture at Newent, aided by a Rupert Cary hat trick.

Badgers Win Again

21-November-2009 :: Mens Badgers: 1 - 0 :Gloucester

Stroud Badgers U16s continued their great improvement with another win on Saturday against Gloucester. 9 year-old Danny Sopp scored the only goal in the second half.

Non-League Team of Ex-League Players Proves a Problem

21-November-2009 :: Ladies 2XI: 0 - 4 :Puffins

Stroud 2nd XI was pulled up short by the standard of their opposition in this mid-season friendly. The Puffins side comprised competent players who had all played South West Division League hockey when the younger side of 30 ! The team was accurate, skilful and quick.
Puffins play on a junior-size pitch and Stroud did well to adjust to the long narrow surface. The team also did well to prevent Puffins from scoring more than 2 goals in the first half as Lesley Macdonald stopped 3 shots on the line. During the second half it was down to keeper Helen Summers to ensure the score remained respectable.
The Stroud team was pleased to welcome back Laura Thwaite, Carrie Sanders and Heidi Hepher-Dalton after a few weeks break. Heidi's sterling work in midfield earned her the player-of-the-match award. This was a good training game which should stand them in good stead for another league match next week.

A Bridgend too far for Welsh Visitors

21-November-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 1 :Bridgend

Stroud started the game ready for action. Resolute defending from the two Robs, Fynn and Waite, meant Stroud were able to push back any Bridgend attack. Right back, Jeremy Kelsey, sent a penetrating through-ball to Brad Mears midway through the first half. Mears connived to produce a short corner from which Rob Fynn slipped the ball far post for skipper, Alex Waring, to slot home.
Bridgend tried to push forward but Stroud swiftly turned defence to attack, sending Dan Clifford forward on the overlap. A quick pass was picked up beautifully by Richard Fynn who topped it into the keeper. Clifford gathered the rebound from the Bridgend keeper and slotted it home for a 2-0 half time lead.
Stroud backed-off for a 15 minute spell early in the second half, allowing Bridgend back into the game, to make it 2-1 midway through the second half. Stroud resolutely regrouped their midfield, led by Liam Tunney and Matt Waite. Stroud's third goal started emphatically from the defensive line with a through-ball from Rob Fynn into the far right corner of the attacking half. Mears ran like Zeus,
collecting the ball and thundered a pass into the D to an unmarked Waring who slotted home his second, and Stroud's third, with ease !

Strong Stroud Ladies get Deserved Win

21-November-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 3 - 1 :Old Bristolians 2

After last week's unfavourable result, Stroud Ladies 1st XI were hoping for a decent game this time around. With top-of-the-table opponents to face this seemed like a daunting task at the best of times, without adding in the inclement weather. The game started with Old Bristolians gaining much possession and Stroud making very few forward runs. Stroud's defence were up to the challenge, however, and the new formation allowed more help from a speedy midfield. It wasn’t long before there was a good attack and Stroud gained a short corner. The first attempt was foiled but Lucy Bishop regained the ball outside the D and a call from Angela Bridges on the left resulted in a quick ball in and a shot on goal from her. The shot was deflected high and into the goal. Stroud were ahead and determined to protect this lead to the half time whistle. There were good runs down the right by Hattie White and determined play at the back from Bridges. After half time Stroud knew they had to increase their slim lead. They played some good hockey despite the conditions, passing the ball well and supporting each other. An attack down the left saw Julie Whiting run to the OBs' D and pass to Debs who got the slightest touch on for Lucy Moir to score under the advancing goalie. OBs were awarded a series of short corners midway through the half, from which they scored one goal. Aleasha Holder faced a one-on-one and came out quickly to distract the OBs forward, thus preventing her from scoring. Late in the second half Moir scored again from a solo run through the middle and Stroud just had to close down and give nothing away. A well deserved win and a good three points. Special mention for great play to Moir and Bridges.

Back on Track

21-November-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 3 - 1 :Cheltenham C

A wild, windy autumn day out in Cheltenham proved worthwhile for the men’s 2nd XI once again. On a pitch partially strewn with bits of tree, Stroud began in purposeful fashion. The largely young opposition were harried by the visitors who strung some nice passing moves together. Calum Norman, Alan Edwards, Craig Wathen and Matt Price looked assured in midfield, soon taking control and feeding Tim Norman and Luke Palmer up front. Cheltenham’s defensive line was more experienced but Stroud worked them as hard as possible with a mixture of pace and guile. Several crosses were fired to the far post but nobody converted the opportunities. Several short corners were won but some superb goalkeeping kept a rampant Stroud at bay. Finally they made the breakthrough, Tim Norman weaving through the D before slipping the ball left for Palmer to slap the ball home. The home side tried to make inroads but a trademark solid defence comprising Rob Gleed, Paul Ratcliffe, Matt Watts and Mike Hallett at sweeper, ensured their slender lead remained intact until half time.
Following the break, Stroud pressed forward relentlessly, happy to move the ball around and switch flanks at will. The only times they looked vulnerable were when they had too much time on the ball ! Chances were made almost immediately and Cheltenham were forced to defend hard. More short corners were gained but no product resulted from them. As the lack of goals began to frustrate Stroud, despite Edwards efforts in particular, earning him the man-of-the-match award, the home side managed to conjure an equaliser, beating Kev Sinden with almost the first thing he had to do all game ! This provided Stroud with the shot in the arm they needed and they regained the lead after Calum Norman’s shot was bundled back to goal by Palmer and Gleed nudged the ball home. Shortly afterwards, Palmer deservedly scored his second, giving Stroud a well-deserved 2-goal cushion. Still they pressed forward and, with Tim Norman and Price hassling back, gave Cheltenham little hope of a comeback.
This was another justifiable win, keeping Stroud in 3rd spot and showing that, yet again, a changed team is no obstacle to victory.

SHORT CORNER PRACTICE PAYS OFF !

14-November-2009 :: Ladies 2XI: 1 - 4 :East Glos 2

East Glos stormed into the match from the whistle and the Stroud side struggled to cope with the pressure. East Glos scored three early goals before the Stroud side began to come to terms with the determination of their opponents. Some good passing from captain Vicky Raynes and Hannah Scott meant that the team slowly began to have an impact on the match and Stroud got into its stride. Stroud's goal came during the second half when a practised short corner pushed in by Kathy Williams and supported by Jade Crosthwaite allowed Pauline Edgington to power the ball into the back of the net. Despite numerous determined and successful saves from Jordan Turnbull in goal EG managed to sneak a further goal during the second half. Always a difficult match for Stroud, the team did well to contain an experienced and determined EG side. Player of the match - defender Lesley Macdonald.

Ladies Out-Muscled

14-November-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 1 - 5 :Clevedon

Following their best performance of the season last week, Stroud were hoping to replicate some of the magic this time away at Clevedon, despite not having a good away record at this pitch. The game started with Clevedon having the majority of possession, but Stroud were able to soak it up well. Clevedon played a very aggressive game that enabled them to gain possession and advance into the Stroud half. They scored from a short corner midway through the first half. Stroud heads stayed up and they tried to gain more possession and play good flowing hockey, but were prevented from doing so by Clevedon’s style of play. After half time, Stroud battled on, literally, and made some promising attacks down the wing. Some skilful play by Claire Crosthwaite down the left ended with her playing a perfectly weighted ball into the middle of the pitch for Lucy Bishop to run on to, outsprint the chasing defence to take a great strike from the top of the D into the bottom left corner of the goal. The score remained level until the last five minutes of the game when Stroud unfortunately conceded four more goals. Special mention goes to Sarah Tudor for a good strong performance in defence.

Stroud Edged Out in Close Match

14-November-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 3 :Lansdown A

Stroud’s N4 League fixture was a close-fought encounter, the home side narrowly edged-out by a physical Lansdown team on Saturday. The game proved very even and a draw would have been a fairer result. Both sides started brightly, but Stroud went behind after 20 minutes and had a player sin-binned for 10 minutes into the bargain. Alan Edwards’ back trouble led to a reshuffle, but one of Stroud’s rising youngsters, 14 year-old Calum Norman, moved to midfield where he was subsequently clattered twice and could play no further part following a blow to the head. Stroud fought back and equalised with a Rob Gleed short corner strike. Hard work and good movement gave Stroud some openings, 15 year-old Matt Price and Nick Hitchcroft striving to take control in the midfield. Having lost a midfielder, Stroud moved the other 15 year-old, Ed McCollum into midfield as the more experienced Matt Watts came on to replace Norman and bolster the defence. Rich McColl, Gleed and Mike Hallett worked hard to protect Kev Sinden, the keeper still forced to make several sharp saves. Lansdown retook the lead, but Stroud still came back. Tim Norman defied his age, out-running the visiting defence. Showing their partnership of old, McColl produced a defence-splitting pass for Norman’s lateral run to be met and the delicate touch nutmegged the despairing keeper to put the scores level again. Lansdown re-took the lead for the final time and, despite desperate attempts to grab a point, the home side lost for the first time in 5 games to drop to 3rd place. Encouraging signs were there, however, and the youngsters in particular are rising to the challenges facing them. Despite the problems, Stroud showed they are very competitive and are looking to bounce back next weekend.

Encouraging Performance from the Ladies

7-November-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 1 - 2 :Bristol Uni 2

From the first whistle, top-of-the-table Bristol Uni applied immense pressure to the Stroud midfield and defence; they were out fast and hard, making their intentions clear. The first ten or fifteen minutes saw Stroud absorb this pressure well and play in a new 4-4-2 formation. This worked well for them, allowing Stroud to mark Bristol Uni well and keep them out of the D. Stroud were unfortunate to give away a short corner after 20 minutes, from which Bristol took the lead. The pace of the game did not waver for the rest of the half and Stroud began to gain more and more possession as Bristol became more frustrated at not gaining anything from open play. The second half continued the same way as the first and Stroud kept up well, their fitness not letting them down against fit, young opposition. Good advancing play from Claire Crosthwaite and Elaine Noone down the left and Julie Whiting and Grace Cullinane down the right allowed Stroud to enjoy some time in the oppositions end. Sturdy defence was provided by Angela Bridges, Karen Willsher, Lucy Bishop and Sarah Tudor, keeping the Bristol side at bay. A brilliant solo run by Lucy Moir who took on and beat one player and drew the keeper before slipping the ball to the supporting Jenny Price. She despatched the ball into the goal to level the scores. Bristol increased the pressure but Stroud were equal to it and battled on, anxious to hold on for the draw. One minute from full time Bristol were awarded a short corner and, unfortunately for Stroud, they converted this to take the win. An encouraging and strong performance from Stroud.

STROUD STRIKERS ON TARGET & DEFENDERS ON FORM! STROUD WIN 3 - 1

7-November-2009 :: Ladies 2XI: 3 - 1 :Colwall & Malvern 2

The Stroud side was in the fortunate position of having reserves this week and fresh legs gave the team the impetus it needed to maintain both the attack and defence. Despite some excellent attacking play by the Stroud forwards it was Malvern that knocked in the first goal shortly after half time. The Stroud team fought back with determination and from a seemingly impossible position, Sophie Payne scored to equalise. Sophie chose that precise spot to score her second goal and push Stroud ahead of Malvern. The attack from the Malvern team was then unrelenting and keeper Helen Summers did a fantastic job of saving a serious of sustained shots on goal to ensure Stroud maintained its lead. A final goal, netted in classic left wing style from Carrie Sanders with only 8 minutes of the match remaining meant that the Stroud team really had its work cut out to prevent the re-energised Colwall team from scoring. The back line of Di Furlong, Lesley MacDonald and Becky Stevens was stalwart in its determination and the entire team was thrilled to chalk up a win.

Stroud Show Resilience and Resolve

7-November-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 3 - 2 :Sherborne

Stroud’s N4 League visit to Sherborne proved a physical affair, but despite the visitors’ very young makeup, they showed tremendous resilience and maturity to come out winners. Both teams began the match looking for a win, but Stroud soon emerged as front-runners, taking control of the midfield. Craig Wathen’s “vast” experience gave a much-needed solidity in the centre of midfield, but this resolve and maturity soon rubbed off on the youngsters around him. Man-of-the-match Calum Norman excelled at back diamond, sharing a great work ethic with Matt Price and Rich Cartmell on the flanks. That nice element of pace from the younger players contrasted with the defence. Andy Murray found himself sweeping and did a fine job. With Rob Gleed and Matt Watts providing more solidity at the back, Scott Patient got the role of attacking right back. Busy would be a good way of describing Stroud’s defence, although the same description could be used of the rest of the side, too. Tim Norman and Zac Lees worked hard in attack, stretching the physical Sherborne defence in their efforts to break them down. Quick-thinking Wathen gave a lovely pass through to Calum Norman and his wonderful reverse stick strike into the far corner gave Stroud the elusive breakthrough after 20 minutes. Sherborne refused to lie down and tried hard to grasp control of the midfield. To counter this threat in the second half, Lees moved back to bolster the midfield, leaving Tim Norman the lone striker. The decision proved sound, but Stroud still came under pressure. Kev Sinden made some telling saves to deny the home side but the equaliser did come from a short corner. Stroud fought back and Tim Norman drew the defence into a rash tackle and, inevitably, Gleed converted the short corner to take back the lead. Now in the ascendance, Stroud pushed forward again. Better use of the width, particularly from the skilful Wathen and visionary Calum Norman, some courageous efforts from Price and Lees and nice stickwork from Cartmell, gave the visitors the edge. Wathen turned provider again, this time for Tim Norman whose clever touch and a deft flick over the grounded keeper gave Stroud a 2-goal cushion. Still they came forward, but were unfortunate when Calum Norman was impeded in the middle and Sherborne broke through the resultant gap to pull back a goal. Despite this setback, Stroud’s composure was maintained. Gleed, Patient, Murray and Watts survived a few scares but with a solid keeper in Sinden, they need not have worried. A Sherborne player was yellow-carded for persistent hacking before Stroud resolved to keep possession as the clock slowly ticked down. A credit to the captain, a relieved visiting team proved more than worthy winners in a hard-fought game, victory taking them up to second in the division.

Stroud Winning Run Extended

31-October-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 5 - 2 :Hereford A

Stroud M2 showed they can beat not only the lower sides when they defeated Hereford A on Saturday. Both sides were on 10 points in the N4 League before this fixture and the visitors started in a purposeful fashion. Stroud made the early running, however, and made several chances in the first 15 minutes but went behind against the run of play. The midfield of Craig Wathen, Scott Patient, Matt Price and Rich van der Byl then began to take control. Some neat passing and good use of the flanks gave Calum Norman and Tim Norman opportunities to attack the Hereford defence. With 2 substitutes, Stroud kept the pressure on, Paul Ratcliffe and Alan Edwards rolling on and off with the other midfielders. Rob Gleed equalised with a trademark short corner strike before Tim Norman was kicked in the air by the keeper. Rich McColl stepped up to score the resultant penalty flick. Another Gleed strike put Stroud further in front, but they still had not made the game safe. Hereford came back once again as Stroud had a funny 5 minutes. McColl, Mike Hallett and Matt Watts pulled together in defence and stemmed the tide. Wathen and van der Byl looked more assured as the game progressed. Some good tracking back from midfield, through Calum Norman and Price helped restore the home side’s edge and McColl’s flicked finish from a short corner gave breathing space once more. The continued pressure Stroud put on the visitors paid dividends. From another short corner, Ratcliffe’s tenacity saw the ball break for Tim Norman who clinically scored Stroud’s 5th. Stroud ran out deserved winners of an entertaining and competitive match, thus cementing 3rd spot in the division.

Stroud Trounce Lydney Youngsters

24-October-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 13 - 0 :Lydney A

Stroud M2 made it 3 wins on the trot with a convincing demolition of a young Lydney side on Saturday. They made heavy weather of the first half, however, despite having by far the most possession. Quicker passing and better finishing would have given them more than a 2-0 half time score. Lydney could have dented that as well, but for some smart defending by Matt Watts, Ed McCollum and Mike Hallett. Even so, Stroud produced some fine moves when using the width of the pitch and this gave them the lead through Rob Gleed, relishing the opportunity to play midfield for a change. A second Gleed strike gave them a 2-0 half time advantage.
The second half performance was far better. Early passing and more control on the ball gave Stroud the advantage from the off. Stroud’s strikers, Tim and Calum Norman, made life difficult for the Lydney defence, whilst the midfield comprising Gleed, a lively Alan Edwards, Paul “Poacher” Ratcliffe and hardworking youngster Chris Strybis dominated. Rich McColl controlled the defence from his sweeper spot but popped up to inject at short corners. Tim Norman was cruelly pushed over while shooting, his shot striking the post, but was awarded a penalty flick. It was McColl who converted it, later, managing to grab a hat trick by twice touching the ball home from all of 30 inches ! Stroud savaged the Lydney defence and “Poacher” Ratcliffe converted a fine pass to the far post with a sweet finish . Gleed then completed his hat trick, knocking the keeper over in the process and went on to win Man-of-the-Match. Calum Norman produced the strike of the game, powering through the defence and striking the ball into the far corner. Edwards got two, his second a mazy run through a bewildered Lydney defence. Tim Norman scored twice, one flicked high in off the far post, before providing the ball for Ratcliffe to seal a 13-0 victory.
Although it would appear that Stroud’s attack had all the play, support and good defending was needed. Young McCollum at right back had a strong game and Kev Sinden made a handful of useful saves in goal. It was a fine performance and another scoreline to savour. It was important to get good goal difference against the weaker sides in the division and that is exactly what Stroud managed.

Ladies Disappointed

24-October-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 1 - 2 :Somerset Gryphs

Following a very encouraging win last week, Stroud were positive at the start of the match against Somerset Gryphons. Stroud made a very good start, enjoying most of the early possession and putting pressure on the opposition defence. There were some good runs down the right by Julie Whiting and Grace Cullinane. Stroud then seemed to lose a bit of momentum and allowed the opposition to win some short corners, one of which they converted with a lovely strike that hit the bottom corner of the goal with pace. Stroud fought on and a few minutes later were able to equalise when a Claire Crosthwaite strike was saved by the keeper, only for Whiting to pounce on the rebound and place it in the back of the net. Stroud were buoyed by this goal and the rest of the half saw end-to-end possession but no more goals. The second half started well for Stroud and again there was good possession for short periods of time. Conditions were slightly more difficult with the sun low and Stroud attacking into it. Aleasha Holder was called upon several times in this half and she made some excellent saves. Unfortunately, Gryphs managed to score with a weak attempt that rolled between Stroud defenders and over the line. Stroud were unable to pick themselves up after this and did not manage to convert any more attempts on goal. They look forward to the next match in two weeks at Bristol University. Player of the match – Aleasha Holder.

Stroud Win Tough Encounter

17-October-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 1 :Newent A

Stroud Men’s 2nd XI may not have won by as impressive a margin as last week, but this N4 League victory was just as sweet. In fact, both sides had 11-0 wins last weekend, so a close-fought match was always on the cards. Arguably, it was Newent who made the early running, although Stroud’s assured defensive unit of Rich McColl, Rob Dove, Andy Murray and Rob Gleed worked hard to stem the home side’s advances. As they kept the marauders at bay, so Stroud’s midfield, more youth than experience this time, began to find some control. Rich Gealer earned a close-run match-of-the-match competition for his sterling effort at the heart of midfield. Scott Patient, Matt Price and Calum Norman, ages 17, 15 and 14, were the perfect foil for Gealer, working relentlessly and showing strength that belied their ages. Ben Orme and Tim Norman spearheaded the side, giving the home defence the run-around for the entire game. A neat passing move, the epitomy of Stroud’s finest play, saw the visitors take the lead after 15 minutes. Patient’s nicely weighted pass into Tim Norman was collected by the veteran striker whose turn and strike was simply too quick for the keeper to react. Stroud moved slightly more onto the front foot and produced some neat hockey and their pressure nearly paid off on several occasions. Orme’s nice turn saw Newent’s keeper make a sharp save to deny him a goal, but Stroud’s hard-earned short corners came to nought until McColl struck with 10 minutes remaining. The closing minutes saw Stroud battling hard, Calum Norman, Price and Patient swarming around to keep Newent’s midfield in check. A couple of smart saves by Kev Sinden and superb work at the back, particularly Dove and Murray’s reading of the attacks and McColl’s never-say-die solidity, meant Stroud retained their lead to the end. They even managed to keep possession up front as the clock ran down, but were more than a little relieved to hear the final whistle that signalled a much-deserved win in a close-fought, enjoyable match.

Badgers Get 1st Win of the Season

17-October-2009 :: Mens Badgers: 1 - 0 :Cirencester

Stroud Badgers U16s deservedly grasped their first win of the season in a thoroughly entertaining match that saw both teams play super hockey, at times even inspirational hockey ! It was end-to-end stuff, with some great passing from the Stroud lads. A solid feel to the defence with Hamish Norman supporting senior players, Bob Brewer and Derek Pittaway, both of whose quality and encouragement spurred the youngsters onto great things. It was down to the youngsters to forge their own attacks with Fin Dixon and Rohan Sopp the focal points of many attacking moves. Ed Paddock and Jamie Penmore showed great strength, too. The match was a pleasure to watch with good skills and good passing from both sides.

Great Improvement gives Ladies a Fine Home Win

17-October-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 3 - 0 :Lydney 2

Following last week’s disjointed and unsatisfactory game, the Ladies 1st team were determined to up their game this week against mid-table Lydney. Stroud started the game with vigour, passing the ball efficiently and recycling well. From the outset, Stroud looked the stronger and hungrier team, with excellent attacking from the combination of Julie Whiting, Grace Cullinane and Angela Bridges down the right. An opening in the D allowed Claire Crosthwaite to score Stroud’s first goal with a hard, accurate strike. Passing between players was accurate and efficient, with support from the defence and Karen Willshire in the middle of the pitch. There were some skilful solo attacks from Lucy Bishop, one effort ending up in a goal just before half time. Following the break, Stroud still proved eager to win and continued with great play from Lucy Moir and new recruit Hattie White, on the left. Lydney did make some good attacks but were denied goals by a more confident Aleasha Holder in goal, saving two great undercut efforts. Towards the end, Stroud added a third from a good ball into the D by Cullinane, finished off in front of goal by Bishop. This was a great win for the ladies. Player of the game was Grace Cullinane.

Stroud Battle in Vain

10-October-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 7 :Yate 2

Stroud were full of promise this week, fielding a strong team with an unusual three substitutes available. The home side started the game with a positive attitude but unfortunately they were caught napping initially, allowing Yate to gain an advantageous lead with 4 easy goals in quick succession. This was all within the first ten minutes of the game. Stroud were able to pick themselves up and gain some good possession with some effective passing between players. Yate were prevented from scoring again for the rest of the first half. Sadly, Stroud were unable to convert their own efforts on goal, either. The second half saw a brighter start for Stroud but by then the damage was done and Yate were able to add a further 3 goals to their tally. To Stroud’s credit, they continued trying until the end despite the big goal deficit, but were unable to score past a very good Yate keeper. Player of the match goes to Grace Cullinane who played some good hockey on the right and was up against a talented and quick Yate player.

Stroud Win on the Road

10-October-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 1 :Lydney

Stroud traveled to Lydney this weekend looking for their first away points in North Division 1.

The game started off at good tempo with Lydney making the early moves and putting together some early possession. However, it was Stroud who struck first, making the most of an early breakaway attack. A quick ball forward found Rich Fynn who turned his marker and drove towards the D. Fynn skillfully tucked his flicked shot into the far corner. Stroud drew confidence from this early goal and began to put some strong periods of possession together, causing the Lydney defence a number of problems. Mid way through the half Stroud doubled their league. Right back Jeremy Kelsey made a strong break down the right linking up with captain Waring who in turn found Fynn in space. He drew his man wide right and drilled a firm ball across the D which was deftly met by Waring and turned goal ward. The keepers rebound was met first by Kelsey who had continued his run in support of the attack and his efforts were rewarded with a simple tap in. 2-0 Stroud.

The second half saw some good hockey from both teams. As Lydney went in search of a way back into the game Stroud continued to threaten on the break. Lydney played with more intensity and strength and began to place the Stroud defence under pressure. After a number of short corners and a period of sustained attack Lydney found the goal they had been looking for and set up a good last 10 minutes. Midfielder Brad Mears earned himself the man of the match award for a great effort in the middle of the pitch to nullify and frustrate Lydney's play-maker. Youngster Joe Jarman had another good game at centre back and held firm under pressure at the end. As the game drew to a close Stroud had another couple of chances to put the game beyond reach but didn't take them. They weren't needed as the final whistle went soon after, bring a good, well fought game to a close. Stroud left delighted with a great away win.

Stunning Stroud Tame Lansdown

10-October-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 11 - 0 :Lansdown B

Bouncing back from a loss last weekend, Stroud Men’s 2nd XI produced a stunning performance to boost their confidence, father and son both netting hat tricks to boot. The comprehensive 11-0 N4 League victory was largely due to Stroud’s passing game and relentless pressure for the entire match. As goals go in, it is easy to sit back and relax, but Stroud sensed a big score was on the cards and persisted throughout. Craig Wathen opened his account with a superb solo run and scored again soon afterwards. Calum Norman was given his chance and scored Stroud’s 3rd goal before father, Tim Norman, stepped up to convert a penalty flick in emphatic style. Stroud had to be on their guard, however, and the defensive line of Rich McColl, Mike Hallett, Paul Ratcliffe and Alan Edwards did well to prevent Lansdown having a sniff at goal. They also provided strong support for the midfield. In truth, Stroud were a confident unit, from defence to attack. Wathen and Nick Hitchcroft proved a dominant force in the centre of midfield, supported strongly by the youth and exuberance of Matt Price and man-of-the-match Scott Patient.
Calum Norman also impressed up front, following in the footsteps of father Tim. The blend of experience and youth worked wonders this week. The youngsters got their just desserts with a hat trick from Calum Norman, a sweetly-placed shot into the right corner from Patient and a perfectly-positioned right wing poacher’s goal from Price. On his return to Stroud, Edwards scored his first ever Stroud goal, born of his usual tenacity. Not to be outdone by his son, Old Father Tim netted twice for his hat trick.
Kev Sinden had little to do in the Stroud goal, as the 11-0 scoreline emphasised. The Stroud team were unrelenting in their quest for more goals and it seemed as though they could come from anywhere. This was certainly a performance on which they can build and superlatives are never required when you score double figures !

Stroud 2nd XI Outgunned

3-October-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 5 :Gloucester City B

Stroud’s second N4 League encounter was away to Gloucester B and it soon became apparent that the visitors were in for a torrid time. Still looking for a settled side, Stroud struggled to get into a groove despite a nice mixture of youth and experience. Gloucester took an early lead, further extended shortly afterwards. Andy Murray and Craig Wathen worked hard in midfield, ably assisted on the flanks by Calum Norman and Matt Price. Lack of ball retention proved a major downfall and positive moves came to nought because of it. Gloucester went further ahead before a nice passing move was finished off in style by Wathen. A glimmer of hope had emerged.
The second half proved better for Stroud, as they moved the ball earlier and retained more possession. It was still a tall order and Mike Hallett, standing in for the usual keeper, was forced to make several telling stops. Rich McColl, Matt Watts, Paul Ratcliffe and Rob Gleed were made to work hard throughout. Another Gloucester goal was scored before Stroud’s tenacity kicked in again. Visionary skills from Reg Gealer opened the game up a bit and strong running from Tim Norman, Calum Norman and Chris Stybris gave Gloucester some problems. Tim Norman then applied his ferreting skills to feed Wathen in the D and Wathen claimed not only his second goal with another fine strike, but man-of-the-match, too. The home side scored again to settle the encounter and Stroud were left a little downhearted but with some positive points on which to work before next weekend’s home match.

STROUD FORWARDS ON SONG!

3-October-2009 :: Ladies 2XI: 1 - 2 :Lydney 4

The Stroud team can be proud of its performance which was the most impressive for many months! The passing, ball control and techniques were of such a high standard that it left the Lydney team floundering. It was therefore no surprise when Carrie Sanders netted the first goal of the match. Some great control in mid-field by Captain Vicky Raynes and Heidi Hepher-Dalton gave Sophie Payne the chance to score - her shot agonisingly hitting the post. The defence did not have the game all its own way with defender Becky Stevens making some excellent tackles, but still keeper Jordan Turnbull had to make some important saves.

Lydney came back with 2 goals in the second half and Stroud's pressure from forward Hannah Scott provided another shot hitting the post. Stroud was very close to a draw and with its attacking performance should have been the winner it was only the capabilities of the Lydney keeper that prevented the team from gaining its first win of the season.

Stroud Beaten

3-October-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 2 :Redland 2

Some good attacking play by the Stroud forwards during the first half kept the pressure on
Redland. Lucy Bishop, Karen Willsher, Elaine Noone and Jenny Price worked well as a midfield unit, showing good vision and making some well-timed passes to forwards, Claire Crosthwaite and Angharrad Roberts. The half time team talk was used to remind Stroud players to use their most effective style of attack, look for early passing opportunities and more effective team play. The second half saw the game slip away from Stroud as they failed to make the most of their attacking play and failed with the short corners they had worked so hard to win. One such penalty corner routine looked slick and flowed well with a clean, well-struck shot on goal. Unfortunately, it was saved easily by the Redland defence, and despite a quick follow-up on the right-hand side by Stroud forwards, it still resulted in a near miss. Meanwhile, a couple of breakaway attacks by Redland meant they cemented a 2-0 win. A near miss for Stroud came when Bishop fed the ball through to Roberts but, agonisingly, it went wide once more.
This was a disappointing result as it was definitely a game on which Stroud could have made a greater impression.

Sound Enough Start for M2

26-September-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 3 - 3 :Leominster A

Stroud Men’s 2nd XI began the League season against their usual first match opponents, namely Leominster A. The game proved to be a close-fought affair and a tricky proposition given Stroud’s lack of pre-season preparation. A combination of over-complicated play and a little Morris Dancing in the Stroud defence gave the visitors a flattering 2-0 lead. To be honest, Stroud actually produced more chances but trailed going into the second quarter. Proof that a more simplistic approach works, Rob Gleed converted a short corner to pull one back as Stroud’s passing improved. On occasions, they still gave themselves problems dribbling rather than giving an early pass, but Craig Wathen and Tim Norman combined nicely to offer some hope. Strong work from Luke Palmer gave tenacious Norman the ball in the D and he turned provide for son Calum Norman to equalise from the perfect spot at the right of goal.
This fine recovery should have given Stroud a real boost for the second half, but they still managed to grant Leominster the lead once more. Nick Hitchcroft, Wathen and Scott Patient then worked hard to take control of the midfield. A strong period of Stroud pressure saw the home side earn a short corner which was converted with a flicked finish by Rich McColl to level the score. An emphatic display at the back by Mike Hallett earned him the man-of-the-match award, although he was pushed closely by hard-working Matt Watts. A 3-3 draw was a solid result for the opening game and the youngsters performed very well, particularly Scott Patient and Calum Norman.

Disappointing start for 1stXI

26-September-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 6 :Old Bristolians

Stroud Mens 1st XI started their new league season full of optimism, relishing the prospect of the new challenged presented by North Division 1 hockey.

Stroud made the short trip down the M5 to play the side that just beat them to first place in North Division 2 last season, Old Bristolians. With a few new faces joining during the close season and a few old faces departing; Stroud had a new look team but hoped to keep to their old winning ways.

Stroud made a very bright start to the game and put OBs under some early pressure, their high press of the forward line making life difficult for OBs at the back. Stroud made their pressure count when Brad Mears slide a precise pass through the OBs defensive line to the run of skipper Waring, who ran through on goal and shot. His wayward shot was neatly met at the far post by Rich Fynn who had the easy job of tapping the ball home. Stroud were up and running.

OBs regrouped and began to find their feet in the game. As they started to apply pressure of their own Stroud began to make some rash challenges and gave away some silly short corners. Mid way through the half and 2 clinical shorts from OBs later and Stroud found themselves trailing. The game, still well poised, seemed slip further from their grasp moments later when an OBs forward turned in the D and managed to sneek his mis-hit shot past keep Cruikshank. Stroud paying for a lack of possession.

The game ebbed and flowed nicely up to half time and Stroud began to put some nice passing moves together. New right back Jeremy Kelsey joined in with the midfield well and one overlapping run resulted in him providing Rich Fynn with his second goal just before half time. Kelsey’s interplay with Mears and Clifford found Fynn on the byline who skilfully beat one man before squeezing the ball home from a narrow angle. 3-2 down at half time and all to play for.

The second half was a similar story with the game well balanced and periods of play dominated by both teams. Stroud started brightly again but this time were unable to find the goal they needed as OBs defended strongly. Stroud were unable to convert the short corner chances they created, where as at the other end of the pitch, OBs were in clinical form, dispatching another short to put themselves 2 goals clear. As Stroud threw men forward in search of a way back into the game OBs began to exploit the space with some good attacking play and some strong tackling in the midfield. A loose ball was neatly tucked away on the reverse from the top of the D to finish the game off and in the closing moments a cruel 6th was tucked away.

Stroud have much to be positive about from this performance and the 6-2 score line doesn’t tell the whole story but they will need to be more clinical from short corners this season if they wish to compete in this division.

Badgers Impress

26-September-2009 :: Mens Badgers: 3 - 3 :Newent

Calum Norman made his second appearance of the day to bolster Stroud Badgers and popped up with another 2 goals in an impressive display all-round by a young but strengthening side.

Great Effort by the Youngsters

12-September-2009 :: Mens Badgers: 0 - 2 :Witney

Stroud Badgers U15s visited Witney 5th XI on saturday and, despite being pitched against adults, only lost 2-0, effectively drawing the second half. Hamish Norman (11) and Danny Sopp (9)
were unlucky not to get on the scoresheet, while good support was provided by Fin Dixon and Rohan Sopp in midfield. The hot conditions were made worse still as the first half was 10-a-side, Callum Lees and Stuart Holt having to work hard at the back. Stroud borrowed a keeper from Witney for the match and Witney made the numbers up to 11-a-side at half time. Mags Duncan, Ian Dixon and Tim Norman completed the line-up and they battled very hard in the extremely torrid conditions. Well done to everyone for pulling off such a strong result.

Two 3-2s give Stroud 1st place

12-September-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 6 - 4 :Witney/North Wilts

Stroud mens 1st team started to find some of the shape and passing that has given them promotion the last two seasons. New players Rich Fynn and Jeremy Kelsey along with Brad Mears and Matt Waite returning to the team gave strong performances in the two wins. The goal of the day was scored by Matt Waite who pick up the ball in the midfield laid a pass out to Rich Fynn on the right wing. Fynn delayed with skill before laying the ball back to Waite at the top of the D. Waite picked the ball up on the move and drag flicked the ball into the bottom left hand corner of the goal.

STROUD - DOWN TO 9 PLAYERS - DRAW THE MATCH!

7-April-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 2 :Yate & S Glos 2

This rearranged league game was competitive but an injury to the team's captain meant that Stroud started with only 10 players.

Despite strong defending Yate's additional attacking player meant that the Yate team moved ahead by 2 goals before half time.

Shortly into the second half a Stroud player received an injury as a result of a badly controlled hit and the team was down to 9 players. The previous weekend Stroud had taken part in the Gloucestershire County Tournament for teams in Brunel & Severn Divisions 1 and higher (Stroud plays in Brunel 1): a tremendous performance with 9 players for most of the tournament resulted in the team coming 4th. Experience from the tournament meant that Stroud was adept at playing with only 9 players and against the odds pulled back 2 goals in the second half (one from Lucy Bishop and one from Julie Whiting) to draw the match!

Another useful point for the team and one which should help ensure it remains in Brunel 1 next season.

Stroud Gain 3 More Crucial Points

4-April-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 1 :Redland 2

Stroud were determined and focused on winning this match, the sideline support giving the team the impetus it needed to grasp victory. The first half saw the Stroud side totally dominate with numerous shots on goal being saved, going wide, or hitting feet. Inevitably, it was Redland that scored first in the second half and Stroud were fighting to get back into the game. A well worked short corner from Karen Whitehead brought Stroud's equaliser. The Stroud team was then desperate to score a winning goal and captain Karen Willsher led by example, putting unprecedented pressure on the Redland side. This was finally rewarded when a great cross from Mopsey was deflected into the goal by Julie Whiting. The team played well and player of the match was difficult to award - it was felt the defenders were particularly impressive. The team now needs to win its final league game on Tuesday evening to have a chance of remaining in this division.

Stroud Edge Out Wotton

21-March-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 2 :Wotton-u-Edge

Stroud went away to Wotton knowing that a win would mean guaranteed promotion for Stroud but also relegation for their local rivals. The game started brightly with Stroud linking some nice passing moves and probing into Wotton's D. A breakaway from Wotton saw an overload at the back post and a goal was scored to put Wotton ahead.

Stroud responded quickly with a goal of their own from Jamie Batten. Another followed quickly when Batten made a superb break away and from the left side of the D scored an impossible reverse hit - goal of the season for the 18 year old forward.

Wotton came out for the second half with rejuvenated fight in them, and the derby feel of the game was in evidence as tempers were stretched. A well worked move from Batten and Dan Clifford was finished, with real determination, by Stroud forward Ben Orme, clattering the ball into the back board.

The defensive midfield work of Matt Waite to contain Wotton's main player earned him man of the match but even this work couldn't stop Wotton from scrambling the ball across the line at the left post. In the final 5 minutes Stroud were down to 10 men after a poor tackle from the right back led to a yellow card. This meant that the last few minutes were very tense, leading to a short corner being given to Wotton right on the final whistle. A fine save from keeper Cruickshank and a cool clearance by midfielder Brad Mears gave Stroud a thoroughly deserved victory. This is the Omega Group-sponsored firsts team's second promotion in as many seasons and sets a final game of the season with Devizes A where victory could mean a the league title if Old Bristolians slip up against Cheltenham side, Lansdown.

Another Crucial Point

21-March-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 2 :Somerset Gryphs

This was a crucial fixture for the Stroud team which held its '1 point lead' over Somerset Gryphons to keep it out of the relegation zone.
Stroud started well when Julie Whiting netted a goal from a fine cross from Lucy Bishop. Somerset equalised and the teams went into half time with the scores even.
Stroud then surged ahead again, with a second goal from Julie Whiting this time ably assisted by player of the match Katie Hawkins. The half time team talk by the Gryphs' coach meant that their hockey changed substantially during the second half and the team attacked almost exclusively down the RH side of the pitch. The attack was supported by a defensive ' square' pack, making it very difficult for the Stroud team to move the ball out to its right - from where their previous goals had been initiated.
Stroud looked strong in attack, midfield and defence and the team will be aiming to pull back a win from at least one of its last two league games.

Fighting Performance from the 3rds

21-March-2009 :: Mens 3XI: 0 - 1 :Sherborne A

Stroud's 3rd XI fought hard at home to Sherborne A, a side that wupped them earlier in the season. The mere 1-0 defeat says a lot about how far they have progressed in this, their debut season. With luck, the 3rd will be stronger next season and able to offer more strength to bolster the higher sides, particularly as the 1st XI’s promotion will require more strength in depth to ensure they remain in North 1.

Wotton-under-Stroud

21-March-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 7 - 0 :Wotton-u-Edge A

Stroud faced bottom side Wotton A in a match that was definitely there to be won. They still had to produce a good performance and score goals, particularly as, to their credit, the visitors worked hard throughout. A couple of early near misses were soon forgotten once Rob Gleed’s short corner strike found the backboard. Shortly afterwards, Tim Norman struck high to the keeper’s right, before Andy Murray put a shot slightly higher to the keeper’s left, subsequently attempting to have a shot named after him ! With a 3-0 cushion, Stroud appeared to ease back a bit, but this may have been due partly to the glorious spring weather, rather than any conscious decision. Nick Hitchcroft and Murray bossed the midfield, while the defence was controlled by man-of-the-match Rich McColl, but the lead was not extended by the interval.
Following a stern team talk, Stroud came out looking for more goals. They moved the ball around pretty well, certainly displaying winning qualities, but never quite overrunning Wotton. Some excellent passing moves entertained the onlookers, Hitchcroft finishing a move he started by converting a strong Gleed cross at the far left of the goal. Joe Jarman popped up to get on the score sheet, too. Scott Patient’s hard work was rewarded with a goal towards the end and McColl went on a customary sortie from the back, flicking the ball between keeper and post to make Stroud’s tally 7 goals from 7 different scorers.
There were good signs here and this coming Saturday’s final League fixture at home to Lydney A could give Stroud further pointers for next season.

Another Win for the Badgers

21-March-2009 :: Mens Badgers: 4 - 0 :Wotton-under-Edge

A second win on the trot for Stroud’s young Badgers, but the match was more about making the youngsters from both teams play some good hockey. With the home side without a keeper, Stroud evened up the sides as necessary, playing one of their adults in the Wotton side in the second half – true to the spirit of youngsters’ hockey.
Stroud may have a young side but are playing some intelligent hockey. They showed good use of space and width, as Calum Norman dictated affairs from midfield and Fin Dixon was unleashed down the right – both players scoring. Other players shone, however, with Harry Gwillam scoring twice and impressing with his running up front. Dan Brown is looking much stronger down the left flank and he linked nicely with newcomer George at left half and a solid-looking Hamish Norman who was accomplished at left back despite his tender age ! Nathan Brown spearheaded the attack. Callum Lees provided the strength at right-back and his pace kept Wotton marauding forwards at bay, particularly as they pushed hard to claw back a goal in the second half. Stroud really worked hard to pass the ball around and club coach Rob Fynn was delighted with this final performance of the season.

Victory at Last for the Badgers

14-March-2009 :: Mens Badgers: 6 - 2 :Gloucester

Stroud’s young Badgers finally got a victory that they have promised for a while. Up against another young side, they dominated proceedings with Calum Norman and Fin Dixon each scoring a hat trick. Thanks as ever to Bob Brewer who coaxed the youngsters to victory. Other fine performances from Harry Gwillam, Nathan and Dan Brown, Hamish Norman and Rohan Sopp, along with the ever-present Callum Lees at right back, helped seal a deserved victory. Looking to next season, it is clear that the signs are good for further development as the team play more passing hockey – they will be physically stronger, too, so will be able to withstand the onslaught with more confidence.

Resistance Proved Futile

14-March-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 6 :Newent A

The scoreline belies the effort put in by an unusual team on Saturday. With a side containing several 3rd XI players and lacking at least 2 key players, Stroud started on the back foot. As you are no doubt aware by now, resilience is a word used to describe Stroud 2nd XI – add to that, never-say-die, it ain’t over til’ the lady sings etc. and you will get a good idea of their dedication. As they soaked up pressure, particularly driven from Newent’s strong midfield, Stroud gained in confidence. This led to several early attacks and a Tim Norman cross found Rob Waite who was hoofed by the keeper, earning a short corner. Rob Gleed’s strike put the visitors a goal up. He and man-of-the-match, Andy Murray, worked hard to contain the Newent midfield and, at times, Stroud’s movement produced some fine hockey. When Matt Price and Zac Lees used the full width of the pitch, Stroud proved dangerous. Defensively, they had a torrid time, but Mike Hallett, making his first appearance in goal for several seasons, in the absence of a recognised keeper, made some telling saves. Matt Watts relished the opportunity to forage legitimately up field from his right back position and Scott Patient was quiet but efficient at centre back, having a fine game. Barney Franklin buzzed in the middle and Paul Ratcliffe, yet again showing his versatility, seemed quite comfortable at sweeper.
As half time approached, Newent snatched an equaliser and 2 quick goals following the break all but put paid to Stroud’s challenge. In true pterodactyl style, captain Norman rallied the troops and they continued to pressurise Newent. At times, Stroud produced some fluid play but lacked a little je ne sais quoi; certainly rueing the lack of a substitute that would have given some respite. Gleed popped up again to score a second, his powerful shot only deflected further into the net. Newent scored again, however, finally running out 6-2 winners, the final throes of the match epitomised by Stroud’s never-say-die attitude. This was a good performance of which Stroud should be proud. Next week’s home fixture against Wotton A should see a stronger side lining up at 2 p.m.

Draw Brings Welcome Point

14-March-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 3 - 3 :Bristol Uni 2

Any thoughts Stroud harboured about a Uni side being less committed were immediately put to flight when a squad of 13 travelled to Stroud for this League fixture ! Stroud started the match with energy, verve and style and were clearly the stronger team for 20 minutes or so. The team was so much in control that it went ahead with a goal from Angharrad Roberts. Bristol began to get into its stride and equalised shortly afterwards. The second half saw some good work in midfield from Sarah Tudor, Karen Willsher and Karen Whitehead, resulting in a goal from Julie Whiting, who scored from a rebound. Once more Bristol equalised and then pushed ahead. The Stroud team was allowed little space to play its flowing style of hockey, but player of the match Lucy Bishop found a way through the Bristol defence and her shot on goal found its target. As always Angela Bridges did a great job of blocking any Bristol players who had managed to escape their markers and a draw provides a welcome point for the Stroud team.

Cheltenham B too Strong for Stroud

7-March-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 0 - 5 :Cheltenham B

This proved a battling performance from Stroud, up against promotion-chasing Cheltenham B. The visitors started confidently and took an early lead as Stroud struggled to get the ball out of their half. Man-of-the-match, Rich McColl, was solid in defence and it was his efforts, along with those of Rob Gleed, Mike Hallett and Rob Waite, that kept the score respectable. Try as they might, Stroud failed to break down Cheltenham’s resilient defence, Tim Norman only managing one solitary shot in the second half – from a Nick Hitchcroft pass. His midfield work alongside Rich Gealer and a swarming Barney Franklin, was a struggle. It is no bad thing to lose to a better side as long as you play to the best of your abilities and work hard. Stroud managed this and came away with their heads held high, as noted by a gracious opposition. Another tough match next week could see a slightly depleted side, particularly as the 3rd XI struggled again with a lack of experienced players.

VICTORY ELUDES STROUD LADIES

7-March-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 1 :Old Bristolians 2

This was an important match for the Stroud team as the Old B's team stood one place ahead of Stroud in the league table. Against the run of play Old B's found the goal halfway through the second half and the Stroud team was unable to pull a goal back to equalise. The Stroud team played well, passing the ball hard and accurately but the Old B's defence held firm against the Stroud forward attack. Julie Whiting was once more awarded the 'player of the match' award for her tireless efforts in midfield. The Stroud team often raises its game against stronger opposition and it will be aiming to claim 3 points next week from its game against Bristol University.

Disappointing Damp Squib of a Draw

1-March-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 2 :Cirencester B

Sunday should have been a walk in the park compared to Saturday. Stroud started brightly enough. Rob Waite, still struggling with a damaged foot from the day before, held the ball up well and Tim Norman swooped to pick up the loose ball and put Stroud into the lead. More pressure was applied as Stroud gained the upper hand. The Cirencester keeper cynically floored Waite to give Stroud a penalty corner. Rob Gleed’s well-struck shot bounced back off the post, hit a defender’s foot and went in for a 2-0 lead. Shortly afterwards, it was Waite who denied Gleed a second, inadvertently getting in the way of a goalbound shot; cue an ice pack and 10 minutes recuperation time. Tired legs from the previous day were tested further, but Stroud still maintained the edge, but several other shots were deflected away from goal.
Unable to extend their lead by half time, the second half should have proved Stroud’s worth. Ben Orme earned himself the man-of-the-match with great running, while Nick Hitchcroft took control of the midfield. Another cynical foul by the Cirencester keeper went unpunished, but Stroud’s tired legs made heavy weather of their superiority. A flicked shot went over the bar, before the home side pulled a goal back. Still Stroud should have wrapped up the game. As Cirencester pressed, they were awarded a penalty corner for a defensive clearance aimed squarely at the side line. The equaliser was scored and a frantic few minutes had Stroud fighting to regain the lead they should have held. An unfortunate 2-2 draw left Stroud feeling like they had lost again, particularly as they will rue the missed opportunities.

Stroud Outplayed at Hereford

28-February-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 0 - 6 :Hereford A

Saturday’s trip over the River Severn to play on a bumpy pitch did Stroud no favours, either. They were lacklustre but, at the end of the day, were beaten by the better side. Hereford managed the pitch conditions better, whereas Stroud made heavy weather of control. An early goal spelt disaster for Stroud who struggled to get any shooting opportunities in the first half. Worse still, Rob Waite took a serious blow to the foot and spent ¾ of the match in the opposition D, unable to compete properly. A Rob Gleed strike into the D was met neatly by Tim Norman whose deflection was finished off in fine style by Barney Franklin, only for it to be disallowed for feet.
The second half was another uphill struggle for the visitors. Man-of-the-match Franklin worked tirelessly and Stroud did string some useful moves together. It was not to be their day, however, typified by a short corner awarded to Hereford when a ball was pushed into the keeper.

Stroud Beat Local Rivals

21-February-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 1 :Lansdown

Two seasons ago Stroud Men's 1st XI were on the receiving end of a 4 goal home defeat at the hands of Lansdown 2nd XI. Today, as a measure of the relative club fortunes, Stroud returned from Cheltenham with a hard fought away victory against Lansdown 1st XI. The 2-1 win sends a delighted Stroud team back to the top of North Division 2 with a game in hand.
Lansdown started the game the brighter of the two sides and put Stroud under some early pressure, with Stroud struggling to get hold of the ball and play any coherent hockey. Lansdown's dominant start gave them the confidence to push players on as they created the opening chances of the match and forced two early short corners. Stroud's defence, marshaled by the ever vocal keeper Cruickshank, held strong and weathered the home sides assault. Despite their early dominance it was Lansdown who conceded first, Stroud's first real counter-attack of the game opening up their defensive line. Simon Pickard played a strong pass down the left flank. Skipper Waring collected and passed neatly to the advancing forward, Jamie Batten. Batten's outstanding pace and cool finish proved, yet again, what an exciting young talent he is.
Stroud's show of pace and clinical attacking play knocked the Lansdown team onto the backfoot and enabled Stroud to gain a stronger foothold in the game. The forward unit of Clifford, Orme, Waring and Batten started to link up well and the midfield of Mears, Tunney, Waite and Pickard were able to gain the better of the midfield proceedings.
The second half saw another strong push from the home side who were never out of touch in this close encounter. Lansdown were able to pose a few questions of the Stroud defence but Rob Dove, Andy Murray and Rob Fynn held strong, ably supported by the efforts of Mears and Waite whose tireless tracking of players made it difficult for Lansdown to create any clear-cut open play chances.
At the other end, Stroud responded with more crisp attacking play of their own and began to exert pressure on the tiring Lansdown defence. Their pressure and good possession eventually told when Ben Orme popped up in the D with a great deflection to turn Liam Tunney's firm strike passed the keeper.
Lansdown kept fighting and managed to find a way back into the game, converting a poorly-cleared short corner with a strong strike form the top of the D. Despite their best efforts, Lansdown couldn't find an equaliser and Stroud were happy to keep them at bay with their own attacking style, Matt Waite forcing a good double save from the Lansdown keeper.
Stroud were able to maintain their composure and soak up the pressure in the last few minutes to shut out their local rivals for a memorable victory.

FIREBRANDS HAD MORE FLICKER

21-February-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 3 :Firebrands 3

The Stroud team fought hard to keep Firebrands at bay, but it was unable to find the net and Firebrands triumphed. Stroud started well with player of the match, Julie Whiting, covering much of the central midfield to contain the Firebrands team at the halfway line. Firebrands fought hard and scored 2 goals during the first half of the game, despite the actions of the defence, including captain Karen Wilsher and midfielder Sarah Tudor. The team is now entirely focused on maintaining its current position in the league and was pleased to see Abbi Jellyman back in action.

Cirencester Pass Through Stroud

21-February-2009 :: Mens 3XI: 3 - 7 :Cirencester C

Stroud gave a better performance this week but still lacked some confidence to pass simply. When they did the sensible things, passing back, square and forward instead of diagonal, they looked really good. It took a while, but they score eventually through the tenacious Alex Elder. A fine run by Zac Lees resulted in his sharp shot being parried, but Dominic Creech was on hand to convert it. Calum Norman worked hard down the right and Bob Brewer distributed well from the back. The highlight may well be Henry Beck’s first goal, taken in true left winger fashion at the far post. There were some good signs this week, but more ball retention, more thought and less hurried passing should see Stroud 3rd XI improve their game still further in the remainder of their first season.

Stroud Show of Strength

21-February-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 4 - 2 :Gloucester City C

A super display of resilience and strength proved the key to Stroud’s success on Saturday. Although they were greeted by the truly inspirational Spring-like sunshine, the home side were slow out of the blocks. Gloucester are never an easy proposition, particularly when looking to overturn their defeat in the first match. With a couple of whippets up front making Stroud’s defence work hard, plus a few hard tackles to open affairs, Gloucester took advantage early into the match, although a suspicion of feet left Stroud a little aggrieved. No matter, Stroud soon perpetrated their own twist of magic as they began to pass the ball about with more panache. Sound in the knowledge that their defence was as solid as a rock, with man-of-the-match, Sam Gilbert, using every part of his body to good effect in the Stroud goal, Stroud marched relentlessly towards an equaliser. Joe Jarman provided the perfect foil for Nick Hitchcroft in midfield, the latter anchoring the side and providing the pivot to switch play. Rob Gleed and Jarman worked the right with ease, while Scott Patient found his feet well at left half. Stroud’s simple passing game led to their first goal. A neat move found Paul Ratcliffe on the right. His strong, textbook run was finished with a perfect cutback to Tim Norman in the D who took one touch and struck unerringly for goal number one. Stroud were in the ascendance and went confidently into the half time break at 1-1.
Perhaps somebody should have warned Gloucester that Stroud were a hungry crew ! A half time talk both, relaxed and positive, resulted in a strong start to the second half. Even better passing and superior ball-retention gave the home side the edge. Great running and work rate from everybody saw Stroud take the lead as the ball fell to Jarman at the top of the D, his shot going wide of the keeper’s despairing feet. Minutes later, good work down the left saw Patient poke the ball over to Norman who roofed his flick over the keeper for his second and Stroud’s third. The visitors fought back and forced a goal to take the score to a worrying 3-2. Stroud were not going to be undone, though. All hands to the pumps in defence, but still looking forward at the same time – Stroud’s efforts forced another short corner. Rob Gleed’s strike was cushioned by Norman to a perfectly-positioned Jarman, who poached his second at the left-hand post. Inspirational it proved, along with Gilbert’s super saves, Stroud covering the entire pitch to defend and attack. Mike Hallett combined with Norman to drive out of defence and Barney Franklin exchanged passes with Hitchcroft to show which team was really in charge.
This was a superb performance from Stroud, particularly coming from behind to win in style – strength and skill – a lethal combination.

Disappointing Performance

14-February-2009 :: Mens 3XI: 1 - 7 :Gloucester City D

A slightly disappointing result for Stroud 3rd XI, pitched against 11 outfield players. They started brightly with some nice passing, good use of space and intelligent play. Calum Norman deservedly scored the opening goal to give Stroud the lead, after a nice move. Unfortunately for Stroud, this opening period was the only portion of the match where they showed their true colours. They played into the hands of an older, more experienced Gloucester defence, not passing early enough and giving Gloucester the opportunity to pick off attacks. But for some good save by Ashley Hicks and strong work by Callum Lees, the result could have been worse.. Early passing and wider play should have given the home side victory, but they will no doubt have learnt from their mistakes this week and work hard to improve for the next game.

Strong Result Keeps Stroud in the Hunt

14-February-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 2 :Cardiff Medics

Another weekend with student opposition, but despite the average age of the home side being increased with older players drafted in, Stroud produced a solid performance once again. They worked hard to hold the students at bay, but fell behind after a foot in the D gave the Medics a short corner from which they scored. This led to a momentary falling of heads, but Stroud’s determination to get back into the game was soon rewarded when Dan Clifford’s arcing run into the D was finished off in great style with his cracking reverse stick strike which left the Medics’ keeper bemused. Solid defensive play was required to hold the students at bay until half time, Simon Pickard picking off many forays. Strong stickwork from midfielders Liam Tunney and Brad Mears gave them a foothold in the middle of the pitch.
The second half proved another closely-fought affair but Stroud snatched their chance when Alex Waring’s strong run down the left led to a fine cross to Clifford whose smart pass gave Jamie Batten with a relative tap-in at the right-hand post. With their lead secured, Stroud still worked hard to extend it, even in the wake of Medics’ attacking play. It is often true, however clichéd, that the best form of defence is attack. So it proved, particularly with such a sound defensive line, but relentless pressure from the students eventually told, and Stroud were pegged back to 2-2 with 5 minutes remaining on the clock. A nervy end to the game saw Stroud still pushing for victory, but the result was a good one, nonetheless, leaving them in second spot, 2 points adrift but with a game in hand.

Impressive Performance Despite the Result

12-February-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 4 :Redland 2

In the first game for some weeks this rearranged league fixture was of an excellent standard, with both teams playing fast, thoughtful and accurate hockey.
Stroud had command of the match for the first 20 minutes, playing well on an unfamiliar 'just watered' astroturf pitch. The home side then took control of the game and scored 2 goals before half time. Stroud remained determined with 2nd XI keeper Helen Summers preventing the hungry Redland side from increasing the goal tally, but Redland hit the mark twice during the second half.
Stroud was unlucky not to score on a number of occasions, from both open play and short corners. Although disappointed, the team felt it had performed well against ultimately stronger opponents.

Stroud Mens 1st XI Equal Top of the Tree

7-February-2009 :: Mens 1XI: - :Devizes A

No matches were played over the weekend due to the atrocious weather conditions, but it is worthwhile emphasising the teams’ progress this season. The Men’s 1st XI were promoted into North Division 2 at the end of last season and the obvious step up in the quality of opposition could have caused problems. Not so – a fantastic team effort has seen them top the division table and they currently sit 2nd on goal difference with a game in hand. With 4 teams facing the drop, competition is fierce, a mere handful of points separating promotion places from relegation places, so results like last weekend’s 3:2 win over erstwhile leaders, Bath Buccaneers C, are more than welcome. A strong squad containing a nice blend of youth and experience has still come away with points when defeat looked on the cards – a measure of resilience. Captain Alex Waring and club coach Rob Fynn have worked hard to get strength in depth. With a few departures from the squad just before Christmas, trouble could have been on the cards, but quality in the 2nd XI and 3rd XI sides has meant a relatively smooth transition. The top spot shows this to be true. Obvious quality shines through, with Jamie Batten having an outstanding season, top scorer in the 1st XI. Defensively, Stroud have shown great strength, too, giving away very few goals. Stroud’s desire to play good quality hockey is undiminished. Those players stepping up to the 1st team have built upon routines and practices used in training every Tuesday.
The Men’s 2nd XI have produced some superb results, but have also struggled with consistent personnel in their midfield. A fine team spirit remains a constant, however, and youngsters from the newly-created 3rd XI have been welcomed, the experience of higher level hockey being an important step in their development. The 3rd XI have shown remarkable persistence in their first season, producing some fine performances to date. The Men’s Badgers U16 side is very young on average, but they are playing some great passing hockey. Calum Norman, Fin Dixon and Rohan Sopp form a strong core around which the younger players can learn their trade. Adults, Bob Brewer and Derek Pittaway instill good habits and ideas, ensuring they pass the ball and do the simple things well in addition to a bit of flair ! Their patience and dedication is key to the progress of Stroud Hockey Club’s youngsters.
Anybody interested in playing hockey should contact Tim Norman at tim@timnmorman.plus.com or on 07774 273044.

Not a Day for Stroud

31-January-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 3 :Lansdown A

Sometimes you can get the rub of the green or be lucky with the roll of the dice … other times, not ! Saturday proved a NOT for Stroud 2nd XI. A few changes again caused a little issue and a hungry-looking Lansdown side did not help matters. Although Stroud worked hard in the first half, their first touch on the ball was not good enough and passing not quick enough. Their opponents were that little better in both departments and took the lead midway through the first period when a vicious reverse-stick strike beat an unsighted Sam Gilbert in goal. He went on to make many important stops during the match. A solid defensive line-up held on strongly, Rob Gleed’s excellent efforts earning him the man-of-the-match award. Youngsters featured in midfield again this week, Scott Patient acquitting himself well along with Luke Palmer. Nick Hitchcroft’s return was welcome, although he had his work cut out tracking his opposing centre midfield player.
Stroud’s second half performance was improved, Rich Cartmell working hard up-front and Rob Waite putting himself about. The visitors increased their work-rate, even when an unstoppable roofed shot put Stroud further behind. Several promising Stroud attacks we thwarted, before Lansdown dealt a cruel blow with a mis-timed drag flick which bamboozled the Stroud keeper for a 3-0 advantage. An agitated Tim Norman rallied his side and the final 15 minutes saw Stroud playing better hockey. They may have struggled throughout the match but good signs were there. A nice move saw Rob Waite, ever the martyr, slip the ball to Norman who wrong-footed the keeper for a consolation goal, well-deserved for the hard work Stroud put in. Next weekend’s fixture at home to bottom-placed Lydney A is a game Stroud must win – they will if they up their passing speed. 12:30 start at the Leisure Centre for all budding supporters.

Stroud Back on Top

31-January-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 2 :Team Bath Buccs C

After last week’s good performance against Cardiff, Stroud hoped to continue their good play against Team Bath Buccaneers who were one point ahead of them at the top of the table. In the away fixture, Stroud were just pipped 2-3, so the hope this week was to capitalise on home advantage.
The game started brightly with both sides playing flowing passing hockey, Bath Buccs hockey the more physical, but both teams showing great skill and pace.
Buccs opened the scoring through a good passing goal, but the resilience of the Stroud team drove the game forward and they levelled the game through a Jamie Batten goal, created by the excellent passing and support play of the forward line of Batten, Clifford, Waring and Orme.
This lifted team spirits and the midfield quartet of Hines, Mears, Jarman and Tunney proved to be a formidable unit. A short corner was won and Robert Fynn hit the ball hard into the bottom left hand corner to put Stroud up at half time.
The second half started with Buccs upping the pressure and even the resilience of the back line of Dove, Fynn and Murray, with Cruickshank in goal, couldn't stop Buccs drawing level. Both teams continued to be evenly matched until a fantastic breakaway goal was scored by man-of-the-match Dan Clifford with a low undercut from the top right of the D. The team then sealed up the pitch in the last 15 minutes and defended against a charging Buccs side.
This win has taken Stroud back to the top of a very close and hard fought N4 League North 2 Division.

Whiting Denied Hat-Trick

24-January-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 4 - 0 :Jaspers 2

The Stroud team looked slick as it gained a further 3 points this weekend, recording a win against Bristol side, Jaspers. After a shaky first few minutes the team found its feet and assumed command of the game.
Goals in the first half were from Debbie Dillon who knocked the ball in from an excellent pass from Sarah Tudor, and from Lucy Bishop whose powerful hit on goal caused a fumble by the Jaspers defence, allowing Stroud to go 2 goals clear.
The second half saw the Stroud midfield and defence deal decidedly with the Jaspers attack, Sarah Thomas particularly being in the midst of the fray - for which she was voted 'player of the match'.
Defensive work by Katie Hawkins, Angela Bridges and Steph Woodward was controlled, skilful and commanding. Julie Whiting cracked in two further goals, but her third was disallowed as the umpire blew her whistle seconds before the ball powered home.

Stroud 2nd XI Bounces Back

24-January-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 3 - 3 :Ross-on-Wye

What a difference a week can make. Last Saturday’s damp squib of a performance was put well and truly behind them as Stroud 2nd XI took another point against promotion contenders. It did not start too well, however, the home side’s makeshift formation taking a while to click into gear. A youthful midfield containing Joe Jarman, Calum Norman and Luke Palmer was marshalled by Rich Gealer, but Ross’ more experienced and physically stronger counterparts won through to take a 2-0 lead, despite some fine efforts from Sam Gilbert in the Stroud goal. Reminiscent of the Spitting Image John Gielgud characterisation, this poke with a sharp stick awoke the sleeping monster and Stroud slipped into the groove, producing some fine attacking play. With Tim Norman and Rich Cartmell working hard to stetch the Ross defence, Stroud’s midfield were given more chances. Smart interplay from Norman and Norman up the right was complimented by hard work from Palmer on the left. Reward finally came Stroud’s way when they were awarded a short corner. The set-piece appeared to have broken down, but Gealer’s vision was spot-on and he fired the ball into the D at Tim Norman whose cushioned deflection gave Stroud a lifeline. A rocked Ross were subjected to more pressure as half time loomed.
From the off, Stroud pushed forward, setting the tone for a fast-paced second period. This early hard work gave Norman another poacher’s opportunity and he reverse-sticked the ball home for the equaliser. An ascendant Stroud gave their all but Barney Franklin, Matt Watts, Rob Gleed and Mike Hallett had a fiery Ross attack to displace. Ross took the lead once more. A slightly rejigged formation gave Stroud more attacking options. Calum Norman and Palmer offered nice outlets right and left. Gleed and Watts distributed wide to set up threats. The home side’s superb work rate gave them a 3rd goal when Palmer’s fine ball to Cartmell on the left of goal was converted smartly. Stroud then looked for the winner and had several half chances. A little back-chat put them under pressure themselves as they had a player sin-binned. A captain’s lot is never easy and he dropped back into defensive duties. Resolute defending, particularly by man-of-the-match Jarman, Franklin and Gleed, kept Ross out. Gealer’s experience in Although a draw was probably a fair result, Stroud almost snatched a win. This was a superb performance from Stroud, reflected by the obvious disillusionment felt by the Ross side. Some lovely passing play, especially from the green youngsters, ogres (sic!) well for the coming weeks.

Stroud give students a lesson

24-January-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 4 - 1 :Cardiff Uni A

Stroud Men's 1st XI bounced back from last weeks disappointing defeat in emphatic fashion this weekend against Cardiff University.
Stroud welcomed the return of experience in the shape of Liam Tunney and Andy Hines, whose joint presence helped add more steel to the midfield. The visitors started well and played some open and expansive hockey. As was to be expected from the Uni team, also challenging for promotion, they matched Stroud in the early exchanges, the game being played at a great pace. Stroud began to build up the pressure through some controlled periods of possession and went close when Waring won a short corner. Clifford was just unable to squeeze the rebounded shot passed the on oncoming keeper.
It was a mistake by the Cardiff defence that led to Stroud's opener. Jamie Batten, capitalising on a mis-control, robbed the defender then broke with pace. He still had it all to do but was able to produce a finish of the highest quality; a reverse stick belter from the top of the D, whilst on the run. 1-0 Stroud.
The students stuck to their tasks and managed to get themselves back in the game just before half time, scoring from a short corner. 1-1. Stroud were on their game, however, and full of confidence, almost immediately racing back down to the other end and regaining the lead. Danny Cliford combined well with Brad Mears to find Liam Tunney in the D. Tunney clinically picked his spot and Stroud went into the half time break one goal to the good. 2-1
The second half saw the visiting Stroud team dominate possession. Stroud's forwards worked tirelessly to keep pressure on the Cardiff defenders and stop them from playing. Time after time, the midfield were able to pick the passes off. Going forward Stroud moved the ball with pace and accuracy, stretching a tiring student defence. Rob Fynn stepped up from the back to calmly convert a penalty flick. 3-1. The two goal cushion served only to increase Stroud's confidence, epitomised by Danny Clifford when he dribbled past 3 defenders to strike home the second well-struck reverse shot of the day.
Stroud weathered a late student resurgence but the excellent Stroud defensive unit of Fynn, debutant Andy Murray and Pickard held firm. Man-of-the-match Simon Pickard made tackle after tackle to deny any clear-cut opportunities.
Stroud played some great hockey and will be delighted with this result against close promotion rivals. It serves as the perfect tonic for their next league fixture which sees them looking to peg back top-of-the-table Bath Buccs.

Youngsters Struggle Against Bigger Fish

17-January-2009 :: Mens Badgers: 0 - 8 :Newent

Try as they might, Stroud’s young Badgers had a tough time against bigger opposition on Saturday. Despite playing some good hockey at times, they appeared over-awed by their stronger counterparts. The signs are still there for better things to come, but they need to up the ball pace to make the most of the space they create. They were unlucky not to grab a consolation goal towards the end, however, as they dug deep to force an opening. A home fixture this Saturday at 3:30 should ensure a little more support so they could be inspired to produce a good result.

Poor Start to 2009

17-January-2009 :: Mens 2XI: 0 - 4 :Cleevillians

Unaccustomed as I am to describing two consecutive losses for the Men’s 2nd XI, at least this season, it is with regret that such a situation has arisen to start 2009. With the 1st team short and regular 2nd team players absent, playing the leaders was always going to be tough. The first half proved a particularly torrid affair for Stroud and they could really muster only a few attacking moves. A ragged display, coupled with a slick-looking opposing side, led to a 4-0 deficit at the break and an uphill battle for the second period.
A much better performance was produced in the second half, technically drawn 0-0, but Stroud’s lack of midfield presence told, despite hard work and improved use of space. The visitors did look rather disjointed but could have pulled back at least one goal through their efforts. Perhaps it was the post-Christmas rust which caused a definite lull. Whatever it was, a swift response is called for in the next couple of weeks, with an improvement in basics and particularly ball-retention. Possession is everything in hockey – not to be given away lightly. Another tough match beckons next Saturday when the 2nds take on Ross at home, starting at 2 p.m.

Terrific 2 Means 3 Points !

17-January-2009 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 0 :Lydney 2

This was a great start to the second half of the season for the Stroud team which displayed confidence and ability in this home match. Stroud went ahead in the first half when an excellent pass into the circle by captain Karen Willsher was knocked into the left hand corner of the goal by Angharrad Roberts. Determined to hold on to their lead for the second half, guest GK, Steph Woodward, was forced to make a number of spectacular saves, earning her the 'player of the match' award.
Throughout the game both midfield and defence had to cope with Lydney changing formation and the communication amongst the players helped ensure no Lydney attackers were left unmarked. Stroud's second goal was a finely crafted one, starting with Jenny Price on the left hand side of the pitch, moving round the back and into the circle from the right hand side, allowing Julie Whiting to slam it home.
A great performance and 3 glorious points !

Under Par Stroud Lose Out to Students

17-January-2009 :: Mens 1XI: 1 - 3 :Swansea Uni

Stroud Men's 1st XI played host to Swansea University this Saturday in an encounter full of attacking hockey. Stroud returned to the League fixtures after the Christmas break with a heavily depleted team; no less than 4 regular players from the first half of the season missing.
Despite the re-shuffled team positions and new-look line-up, Stroud put in a decent and respectable first half performance against a quick and organised Swansea team. Rob Fynn and Rob Dove made timely tackles in defence and although the students did find time and space up front, Stroud's defensive unit were able to deal well with the threats. It was the Uni side who scored first, however, after some good early pressure, squeezing a deflection in at the near post. Stroud were not without their own offensive threat, Ben Orme holding the ball up well and feeding the others. The pace and movement of Batten and Waring also created a number of chances. As the half progressed Stroud eased back into the game and won a couple of penalty corners, the second of which proved to be the game's contentious issue and turning point.
Right on the stroke of half time, Orme won a short corner after some belligerent forward play. Stroud duly converted this opportunity, skipper Waring deftly touching Fynn's hard, drilled shot high into the Swansea net. Stroud were dismayed when the goal was disallowed and, despite their protests, the goal was chalked off. Stroud finished the half 1-0 down and with a sour taste in their mouths.
The second half was a more clear-cut affair. Despite their best efforts, Stroud were unable to recreate the intensity that saw them draw near in the first half. The students played good passing hockey and once they had scored a second, settled into the game, their third being the nail in Stroud's coffin. Plus points for Stroud, though ... Brad Mears worked tirelessly for Stroud in the midfield, keeper Dave Cruickshank pulled off one of the saves of the season, Joe Jarman did well on his 1st XI debut and Ben Orme scored his first goal for the 1st team.
Next week sees Stroud face student opposition again when they travel to Cardiff University.

Stroud Have the Edge

13-December-2008 :: Ladies 1XI: 3 - 1 :Cheltenham CS A

Stroud played well, hard and determinedly in this final match before Christmas. The team started well, Lucy Bishop putting the team a goal ahead in the first 15 minutes. The Civil Service attacks were neatly mopped up by Angela Bridges, Sarah Thomas and Katie Hawkins, but the speed of the CS centre forward surprised the entire Stroud team and a ball that everyone thought was hit off the pitch was collected by her and neatly put into the goal, making it 1 apiece at half time.
Karen Wilsher's passing into the circle was fast, steady and accurate and Lucy Bishop was able to pick up one of these passes and net her second. Julie Whiting came close to scoring several times during the half, but it was Angharrad Roberts who netted Stroud's 3rd and decisive goal. Steph Woodward made some important saves as the team's guest keeper and Sarah Tudor and Pauline Edgington ensured that the CS attack down the middle of the pitch was rebuffed.
This was a good win and a good omen ahead of the second half of the League season, commencing in January.

Little Christmas Cheer this Time Around

13-December-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 3 :Leominster A

Clichéd it may be, but this could be described quite aptly as a game of two halves ! For all their fine results of late, Stroud 2nds took a while to find their feet on Saturday. With all teams struggling for players, illness rife and young blood away, spirited and sprightly opposition was not what the doctor ordered. Leominster started with the greater application and moved the ball around with more purpose. So it came to pass that the visitors took the lead, before long doubling it as the home side appeared almost obsequious at times. A strangely subdued Stroud finally came to life a little and began to trouble the Leominster defence. Barney Franklin came close, only to see the keeper make a smart save at the last moment. It was left to Rob Gleed to pull a goal back with another fearsome short corner strike. His striking reliability is high so Stroud should earn more short corners in the coming weeks. Resistance appeared futile as Leominster’s midfield attempted to assimilate Stroud’s opposite numbers and forced a third before the interval.
With the bit between their teeth, Stroud looked a different side in the second half. Their passing became slicker, use of space, particularly on the flanks, became more inventive, and greater desire flooded through the team. The usual defensive line-up looked more assured and Leominster found life difficult up front. Conversely, Stroud’s forwards began to revel and made enough chances to seal victory. Clear cut they were not, however, and on other days they may have been converted, but the home side still battled on. Confidence grew until solid sweeper Rich McColl released Rob Dove on the left. Great vision saw him spot Tim Norman’s long diagonal run and Dove’s pass found him free in the 25. He calmly drew the keeper and his composed reverse stick finish gave Stroud more hope. Perhaps not as rampant as last week, Stroud gave Leominster a real run for their money in the last 15 minutes. A beavering Paul Ratcliffe earned the Star Player award for his efforts, but although decidedly on top by the end, Stroud’s relatively poor first half performance had given them too high a mountain to climb and they ended a good quality, competitive encounter rather rueful. Christmas and New Year will undoubtedly recharge the team’s batteries and see the Club’s availability improve to give them a strong chance of a final flourish.

Stroud Shocked by Wotton

6-December-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 0 - 5 :Wotton-u-Edge

This week was almost like the start of a new season for Stroud. Two players have left the team for long sabbaticals to sunnier and snowier climes, respectively. This meant the team had it biggest reshuffle for 5 years - unfortunately highlighted by the result.
The first half started with every player on the Stroud side squinting into a blinding sun. Wotton capitalised very quickly on this fact and pressed Stroud effectively. Playing out of the back with the sun made passing the ball accurately very difficult and many errors where made. This allowed Wotton to come into the break 3-0 up from a performance that must have left them stunned to be up.
The second half started with Stroud in a buoyant mood and some effective play started to open Wotton up. Unfortunately, with Wotton's heads already high, and errors creeping back into Stroud's game, the home side could not break down a resolute Wotton defence.
Congratulations have to go to Wotton's forwards for their clinical and unselfish finishing.
This loss leaves Stroud in second place in the North 2, a couple of points ahead of Wotton but in a very congested League position. With exactly half the season gone, to be in such a position is a real achievement for the side after last year’s promotion.
Next week’s away trip to bottom of the table Shepton Mallet will hopefully bring better fortunes for Stroud.

Hard Work Pays Dividends

6-December-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 8 - 2 :Wotton-u-Edge A

All the hard work put in over the last few weeks, coupled with 2 tremendous draws against the top sides, paid dividends for Stroud 2nds as they romped away with a win against Wotton A on Saturday. The men’s section struggled for players with all 3 sides having the bare 11, but things boded well for Stroud as they arrived before the home side on a cool but sunny afternoon. Stroud soon clicked into gear, their desire to pass the ball around proving tricky for the young and sprightly opposition. Nice use of the wings and tenacity from midfield and forwards led to an early short corner. Rob Gleed’s cobra-like strike beat the keeper for his first. Within minutes, Rob Waite used his pace to pounce on a through-ball and neatly placed the ball where the keeper had started for Stroud’s second. A rocked Wotton found themselves further behind when Tim Norman slotted home his first. Moments later, a fine free hit from Gleed found Norman on the move for 4-0. The visitors were put under the cosh for a few minutes before half time, but held on for a comfortable cushion at the interval, boosted by Gleed’s second with another clinical short corner strike.
Joe Jarman’s growing strength in midfield solidified Stroud in the second half and earned him star player. Despite this, Wotton pressed hard to get back into the game. A momentary lapse of reason at the back gifted them a goal, but this appeared only to enrich the visitors’ performance and Stroud played some super hockey to gain momentum once more. Norman clinched his hat trick, thus stifling Wotton’s brief resurgence. Moments later he added another, sweeping up after Gleed’s flick was saved. Wotton struck again but this was not significant. The words of a Wotton player after the match said it all … “Stroud played as a team and that was the difference, with experienced players …” Rich McColl at the back, Andy Hines in midfield and Norman up front, helping to build a brilliant team ethic. Stroud finished with another goal from Norman. This result reflected weeks of hard work and was thoroughly deserved, securing Stroud A 5th place after exactly half of the season’s League games
Team: Hicks, McColl, Gleed, Watts, Hallett, Hines, Sen, Jarman, Ratcliffe, Waite, Norman

More Heroics from Stroud

29-November-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 1 :Newent A

Stroud Men’s 2nd XI took another point against high-flying opposition on Saturday in an entertaining and competitive match. Newent, a mere one point off the top, were 6 points clear of Stroud before the start and the home side relished the chance to upset the applecart once again. The first 15 minutes were tough going, however, the visiting side virtually encamped in the Stroud half. Resolute defending from Rob Gleed, Rich McColl, Mike Hallett and a moustachioed Matt Watts – suggestive of spaghetti western styling for the team in future matches, perhaps – was required to keep the score at 0-0. Andy Hines, Barney Franklin, Rob Murray and Rich Gealer found life difficult trying to build anything from midfield. Shots were hard to come by, too, and the forwards, Tim Norman and Paul Ratcliffe, ran around to no avail. Somehow, Stroud’s devotion to the cause gave them a couple of openings on the approach to the half time interval. Fine movement saw Franklin receive the ball top D, but he was under too much pressure as he shot to make the breakthrough. A lovely passing move from Hines, Norman and Ratcliffe ended with a couple of saves before Newent scrambled the ball clear. Then, an uncharacteristic burst from Hallett gave support in the opposition 25 and he fired the ball into the D where it was met by Ratcliffe. He squeezed the ball under the keeper to take the lead.

With a slender half time lead, Stroud still had a mountain of work to get through in the second half. With Joe Jarman helping the cause, the home side continued to weather all that Newent could throw their way. As is their wont, Stroud produced some slick attacking hockey at times, giving Newent food for thought as the visitors tried to force the equaliser. With 10 minutes remaining, Stroud’s hearts were broken as the pressure finally gave Newent the goal they needed. Both sides persisted to the end, Newent believing they had a right to 3 points and Stroud knowing their form and hard work deserved at least one. Kev Sinden performed several miracles in goal. The score remained one apiece, both sides playing hard to the end. Andy Murray deservedly earned the star player award, although for the second week running the real winners were the team – another superb effort from captain Norman’s valiant band of brothers !

Awinaway, awinaway ... awinatthome ...

23-November-2008 :: Mixed XI: 4 - 3 :Cleevillians

Stroud took their time to organise themselves, starting the game with only 10 players and Cleevillians took an early lead before Jenny Price managed to put in a well-placed short corner “at pace” - outfoxing the Cleevillians defence to bring the score back to 1 -1. Stroud then began to take more control and despite a few injuries manged to take the lead.
Late arrival Simon Pickard eventually took to he pitch just after half time (once more sporting his girlie pink shorts, which clashed fantastically with the new mixed team shirts of navy, white, red and green quarters) and was much needed as Andrea Preston had to retire injured at half time. Part-timer Andy Hines managed to score a goal before leaving early for Sunday lunch, but luckily Hermes Carlyon was there to replace him with his final appearance for mixed this season. Dan Clifford and Alex Elder both managed to score and Stroud held on to their lead till the end of the game.

Stroud Ladies Last Minute Push Not Quite Enough

22-November-2008 :: Ladies 1XI: 1 - 2 :Bristol Uni 2

Stroud started the game with determination and faced continued pressure from a keen university side. The team conceded 2 goals in the first half and finding the space and energy needed to pull back the 2 goal deficit proved difficult. A well worked short corner, hit home by Lucy Bishop, rallied the team and it was very unlucky not to score in the dying moments of the match.


Katy Hawkins, as left defender, was player of the match.

Stunning Team Performance

22-November-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 3 - 3 :Cheltenham B

Saturday’s trip to Cheltenham to play the leaders would have unsettled many a team, but Stroud 2nd XI is made of sterner stuff and showed resilience in the face of adversity. In what was unquestionably a fast-paced, flowing and competitive encounter, both sides produced some fine hockey. Stroud pushed forward early in the match to signal their intentions, but the home side were well-organised and clearly expected to take 3 points from this game. With close marking from both sides, quick and accurate passing was needed to make an impression and Stroud managed to do this. The visitors were rocked, however, when Cheltenham took the lead with an unstoppable strike high into the netting. Shortly afterwards, another attack saw Stroud fall further behind. They rallied and as the forwards worked out to the flanks, so it left man-of-the-match Andy Hines to drive into the D and slot the ball under the advancing keeper – just what the doctor ordered before half time to keep Stroud in with a shout.
The second half produced an open game and Stroud’s work rate was tremendous as they closed down the Cheltenham side. They looked good on the break, too, and one such opening put Rob Waite free. He attempted to round the keeper but was felled unceremoniously and Hines was given the opportunity - duly taken - to even the score from the penalty spot. Leaders never give up without a fight and Cheltenham tried to regain the advantage. Stroud were resolute but went behind once more. A potent combination of more effort and sharp hockey saw Cheltenham pressurised in the closing minutes. Another Stroud attack eventually gave them the equaliser as Nick Hitchcroft steamrollered his way through to force the ball over the line. Both sides looked for a winner in the dying moments, but Stroud’s superb team efforts gave them an invaluable point against the leaders in a performance which ranks amongst their very best.

Ladies Struggle for Players

15-November-2008 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 4 :Old Bristolians 2

The Ladies’ Club was much depleted this weekend, with 10 of its regular players unavailable - as a consequence both teams suffered losses as they fielded less than full sides.
The 1st team travelled to Bristol and tried hard to contain the opponents, but for 30 minutes during the match the team was down to 9 players as a result of an injury and then a 'sending off'. However the players never give up and the team was keen to achieve a goal, but all its efforts and focus did not bring the reward it sought. Steph Woodward did well in her unaccustomed post as goalkeeper and Mopsey and Flossie were unrelenting in their attack up the right hand side of the pitch.
Julie Whiting and Angharrad Roberts fought hard on the forward line, but the Stroud team was unable to pull back the deficit against a team which it would normally have expected to beat.

Marvellous Stuff from the Boys

15-November-2008 :: Mens Badgers: 1 - 1 :Cheltenham

This was a marvellous performance from Stroud’s Badgers, despite their young average age. With some fine encouragement and strong play from adults Nigel Sherwood, Ian Dixon and Bob Brewer who shared the 2-adult slots, Stroud’s youngsters stuck their given tasks and played some inspiring hockey. Callum Lees looked solid at right back and Ed Paddock did a fine marking job on Cheltenham’s centre forward. Calum Norman did a sterling job in the centre, providing a fine focal point for starting attacks, and Finn Dixon looked ominous going down the right. With Harry Gwillum and Hamish Norman providing the targets up front, Stroud produced some inventive hockey, particularly during the second half. Cheltenham’s strength caused Stroud problems and Kev Sinden made several telling saves to keep them in the game. The second set of brothers, Dan and Nathan Brown, worked hard and showed some nice touches. The team’s growing strength was evident and the extra confidence to play the ball around frustrated the visitors. With 10 minutes remaining, another fine move found Calum Norman in the D. His first shot was saved by he clinically put the rebound in to give them the lead. Extra effort was required for the remaining minutes. A short corner was awarded to Cheltenham and, with the whistle having blown, this was to be the last action of the match. Agonisingly for Stroud, Cheltenham equalised. Stroud’s youngsters are really showing promise now and thoroughly deserved this hard-fought draw.

Goal-fest for Stroud 2nd XI

15-November-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 16 - 0 :Hereford A

It must be pointed out that Stroud faced opposition consisting of 8 players and no goalkeeper on Saturday. Nonetheless, the inevitability of victory was not taken for granted, despite a worrying first 5 minutes when the home side failed to engage any sort of gear. As they began to move the ball around more fluently, so the attacks came. A neat pass from Andy Hines found Tim Norman free near the top of the D and he converted for goal number one. Moments later, a solid cross from Rob Gleed was met by an advancing Joe Jarman for goal number two. Man-of-the-match Nick Hitchcroft found his stride in midfield and spread the ball wide to Andy Murray. Some strong support from Matt Watts and Gleed gave Hereford yet more problems as they failed to contain Stroud. Ben Orme’s long-range pass was tickled into the goal by Norman. Orme then showed lovely skill to turn his defender before scoring his 1st. By half time, Stroud had amassed 8 goals.
A strong team talk, emphasising the need to apply pressure for the entire game, led to more attacking play. Despite this, credit should go to Hereford who stuck to the task and tried hard to play some nice hockey. Stroud soon struck again, Orme being fed well by Hines for 2 more goals. Hines then served up another for Norman before scoring himself after an assured run. Gleed popped up top D to receive a Norman pass and scored again, before clinching his hat trick from a short corner. Hitchcroft got himself on the scoresheet, too. Rich McColl and Mike Hallett were relatively untroubled at the back but had to remain vigilant as Hereford attempted to take something positive from the game. Kev Sinden was fortunate to see a penalty flick go wide.
The final scores on the doors were Tim Norman 6, Ben Orme 4, Rob Gleed 3 and one each for Jarman, Hines and Hitchcroft. Without doubt, a rout, and not something expected next weekend when they travel to table-topping Cheltenham B.

Stroud Go Top

15-November-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 0 :West Wilts A

Stroud Men’s 1st XI travelled to Warminster on Saturday to play West Wilts 2nds. Both teams were promoted into the North 2 Division this season but have had experienced contrasting fortunes; West Wilts struggling to compete in the higher league and still in search of their first victory, whereas Stroud have romped their way to the top of the division.
Today's game was punctuated by a few problems with the floodlights which didn't help either side settle. The pitch having to be changed at the last minute due to floodlight failure. When the game finally got underway it was Stroud who got into their stride first. After a few ominous passing moves in the opening ten minutes it was skipper Alex Waring who struck first. Finding space at the top of the D his initial shot was stopped by the keeper but the rebound presented him with a second opportunity and he was able to squeeze a deft flick passed the struggling goalie. West Wilts responded well and worked hard to get themselves back into the game but despite some good passing and movement were unable to break down the Stroud back four. Stroud were constantly threatening going forward and when midfielder Brad Mears collected a quickly taken sideline ball he was able to drill a pass into the D which was touch goalward passed the keeper by Jamie Batten. 2-0 Stroud.
The second floodlight issue of the day then reared its head. As the first half drew to a close all the lights failed. It was feared that unless they could be fixed the game would not be able to be completed in enough daylight. Both captains agreed to continue until it was deemed too dangerous by the umpires. Despite the fading light and the scoreline West Wilts stayed in touch and will have thought themselves unlucky to concede a third before halftime. Stroud converting a penalty corner through a Robert Fynn strike.
After a quick halftime turn around, to combat the fading light, Stroud began the second half looking to up the tempo. The opening 10 minutes saw some excellent passing hockey by the visitors along with the restoration of the floodlights to full capacity. With vision fully restored Stroud looked to push on to complete a convincing victory. Despite their dominance of possession and the lack of action for keeper Cruickshank, Stroud failed to improve on the first half score line. Man of the match Steve Shipp came close with a neat reverse flick cleared off the line, so too did Waring, and Fynn thought he had scored after a great piece of improvisation to clip the ball into the goal only to be denied by the umpire's decision of dangerous play.
The game finished 3-0. This was an enjoyable match - another clean sheet, a disciplined performance, 3 points and, with Bath Buccs losing, enough to send Stroud to the top of the table.

Shaky, Shaky, Slow then Tasty

9-November-2008 :: Mixed XI: 5 - 3 :Painswick

After a shaky start when Painswick managed to put 2 goals past a disorganised defence, Stroud settled down to their usual open game. Ashley Hicks, captain and goalkeeper, had a half time strop with Stroud 2-1 down. As a consequence, there was a marked improvement in the second half. Although Simon Pickard was not on form and tried to blame his woeful skills on the girlie pink shorts he was wearing, this could not make up for passing the ball to the opposition in an attempt to score and he had to run the length of the pitch to help in defence. Thankfully, Bradley Mears was able to stay for the whole game before leaving for Sunday lunch and having a full side helped. Alex Elder scored one, Danny Clifford scored one, Debbie Dillon scored one, helping Andrea Preston’s short corner strike past the goalkeeper, and Luke Palmer scored 2 goals. Mopsey had a good touch to save the ball off the line towards the end of the game. Grace Cullinane and Scott Patient both gave good, solid performances to help Stroud to a deserved win.

Disappointing Draw

8-November-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 1 - 1 :Lansdown

Stroud Mens 1st team paid the price on Saturday for not finishing the game off whilst they were on top.
The Stroud team will have left the pitch the more disappointed of the two sides after their 1-1 draw with local rivals Lansdown.
At the start of the first half Stroud struggled to get into the game, the Lansdown players chasing the ball down and making it difficult for Stroud to play any expansive hockey. The Stroud defence held strong and, marshalled by man-of-the-match Simon Pickard, made some good tackles to keep the goal threat to minimum. Lansdown failed to take advantage of a few early short corners and keeper Dave Cruickshank kept his goal intact with some good stops. Despite Lansdown's early advantage it was Stroud who scored first, midway through the half, Danny Clifford somehow squeezing the ball in from an acute angle. The goal gave Stroud confidence and they began to get in to the game putting some good passing moves together.
The second half saw Stroud with the wind at their backs and the bit well and truly between their teeth. Stroud began the half with a succession of attacks on the Lansdown goal and, but for some good saves by the Lansdown keeper, could have found themselves two or three goals to the good. With a higher tempo and dominating possession of the ball Stroud really should have put the game beyond Lansdown but simply could not apply the finishing touch. Inevitably, having ridden out the storm, Lansdown got themselves back in the game. A well-struck free hit wasn't cut out and a Lansdown defender ghosted in at the back post to guide the ball into the goal. As the game entered the final minutes, Lansdown threatened on the break as Stroud pushed forward looking for the win themselves, but some last ditch tackles by Hermes Carlyon and Matt Waite kept them out.
Considering Stroud's profligacy in front of goal and Lansdown's resolute defending, the draw was probably a fair result, but Stroud will no doubt be feeling this was 2 points dropped rather than 1 saved.
Thanks to John at the British Oak for his continued support.

Convincing Win Boosts 2nds

8-November-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 3 - 1 :Gloucester City C

Omega-sponsored Stroud 2nd XI put in a convincing performance to beat Gloucester C on Saturday. Key to their victory was the creation and use of space on the pitch, particularly from the forwards, but super support from the midfield of Nick Hitchcroft, Barney Franklin and Joe Jarman ensured a good shape to the side. Gloucester were their usual tenacious selves and could not be discounted, but a nicely aimed side line strike from Franklin found Jarman in the perfect spot, top D and unmarked. His first time slap shot gave Stroud a deserved lead. Stroud found themselves a little under pressure at the back as Gloucester tried to pull a goal back. The slippery pitch almost put paid to Rich McColl and Mike Hallett, but they coped admirably. With Matt Watts also looking solid and pushing forward from the back, Stroud worked hard to build attacks through Ben Orme and Hitchcroft. Leading by example, captain Tim Norman pounced on Gloucester indecision at the back. His shot was deflected by the keeper but fortuitously caught a defender’s foot and crept over the line to give Stroud a more comfortable 2-goal cushion at half time.

The second half began with Gloucester piling on some pressure. Stroud’s defence could have been overpowered but rallied to keep out the marauders, Rob Gleed flying across the back at times. When Gloucester scored a rather soft goal, Stroud’s advantage looked in jeopardy. It was all hands to the pumps as forwards and midfielders including Nik Sen and Paul Ratcliffe worked hard to keep them out of Kev Sinden’s goal. A few anxious moments followed before McColl came away from defence and produced an accurate long pass to Orme on the opposition 25. He drove into the D to despatch a perfect shot through the oncoming keeper’s legs for Stroud’s 3rd. This was just what they needed and weathered Gloucester’s futile efforts in the closing minutes to take a hard-fought but deserved victory. Jarman’s solid play and hard work earned him the man-of-the-match award, but it was an all-round strong team performance that really won the day – a good result to take to their home match against Hereford A, 12:30 start next Saturday.

TOP OF LEAGUE JUST TAKE THE MATCH

8-November-2008 :: Ladies 1XI: 1 - 2 :Clevedon

Stroud played the top of the league this week and the team's strong performance surprised the Clevedon team!
Stroud played well, with some flowing, accurate and stylish hockey. Clevedon went ahead with an early goal, but Stroud's counter-attack resulted in a good goal from the team's top scorer, Lucy Bishop. Mopsey Bridges played well in a new centre back position and Sarah Tudor too command of the mid-field, blocking much of the Clevedon attack. Clevedon managed a second goal from a short corner in the second half and despite hitting the post and having balls stopped on the line the Stroud team just wasn't able to pull in a draw. Player of the match - an excellent performance from guest GK Jade O'Connell.

Narrow Defeat but Not So Narrow Gaps !

2-November-2008 :: Mixed XI: 1 - 2 :Sherborne

Sherborne started with some strong attacking and left the hard working Stroud defence disappointed when, having pushed the player wide the ball was threaded through a 6 foot gap left by the keeper, Ashley Hicks, for the opposition to score their first goal. With Hermes Carlyon still on the side line Sherborne managed to push past the defence to score a second goal.
With a change of team, Stroud began to play a more attacking game with good passing across the pitch by Pauline Edgington, Fran Evans and Alex Elder. Although once again the defence played dangerously as Hermes Carlyon dashed across the goal and passed the ball to the Sherborne centre forward who kindly passed to back to him. Jenny Price played bravely and was there in person.
Stroud finally scored a consolation goal when Bradley Mears passed to a well-positioned Sam Gilbert who smashed the ball through the Sherborne goal keeper who had had an excellent game saving many shots on goal previously.

Batten sees off the Medics

1-November-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 0 :Cardiff Medics

Stroud Mens 1st XI travelled to an unbeaten Cardiff Medics side on Saturday looking to maintain their good start to the season.

The game was a hard fought affair. Stroud found it hard to find their feet in the first half yet, despite playing some sluggish hockey, went in at half time one goal to the good. Stroud opened their account when a good passing move freed Dan Clifford at the top of the D, his reverse stick strike was saved by the Medics keeper but Captain Alex Waring was on hand in his familiar goal poaching role to flick the rebound over the prone keeper and into the net.

Some strong words at half time from coach Rob Fynn focused the Stroud player's minds and they emerged a more determined outfit in the second half. With the energy and commitment levels raised Stroud made life difficult for the Medics, with some sharper passing and more bite in the tackle. The Medics responded well and would have equalised but for an outstanding heroic double save from keeper Dave Cruikshank mid way through the second half. The Stroud defence of Dove, Carlyon, Pickard and Fynn worked tirelessly and managed to keep the danger to the goal to a minimum for the rest of the half.

The last 10 minutes were made easier for Stroud thanks to a great individual goal by 18 year old Jamie Batten. Batten collected the ball on the break just inside the Medics half and then proceeded to out pace the final defender before casually flicking the ball over the oncoming keeper into the goal; a brilliant finish. The second goal cushion lifted Stroud as they sensed victory. They were able to see out the last few minutes for a deserved 2-0 win.

A very special mention must also be made for Matt Waite, who didn’t write this report.

Comprehensive Victory

1-November-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 8 - 0 :Cirencester B

Stroud demonstrated some free-flowing, passing hockey on Saturday as they demolished a young Cirencester side. Having made a slight change to the formation with only 2 recognised forwards, the centre midfield duo of Andy Hines and Nick Hitchcroft brought solidity and focus. Rich McColl’s return at sweeper meant Andy Murray pushed up to a midfield role and the linkage from Rob Gleed at right back soon paid dividends. Early signs soon produced results as a textbook run to the goalline and pull-back gave Barney Franklin the opening goal. Shortly afterwards, Nick Hitchcroft repeated the move with a goal before Hines run and dummy gave him his first. A few worrying moments ensued and slack marking almost saw Cirencester pull one back before half time.
As the match wore on, Cirencester were worn out whereas Stroud continued to pass the ball around with aplomb. It would have been so easy to ease up, but they didn’t and the goals kept coming. Nik Sen’s run and pass saw Tim Norman strike from the top of the D beat the keeper. Then Hines scored his second. A super move down the right involving Murray drew generous praise from the opposition defence, but Norman’s shot was edged round the post by the keeper. Murray forced a save and Norman bundled the rebound over the line. Stroud persisted, Hines and Hitchcroft dictating the play. The home side surged forward and several other chances narrowly evaded the visitors’ goal. Cirencester’s only hope was to push forward at any opportunity but Mike Hallett and McColl refused to budge. McColl popped up at a short corner and his unusual strike bounced across the D to be met by Norman for his hat trick. Not to be outdone, Paul “Poacher” Ratcliffe scored Stroud’s 8th to seal an impressive victory. A strong midfield presence and an undying urge to play passing hockey was key to this big win. Long may it continue.

NEW FORMATION WORKS WELL

1-November-2008 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 2 :Firebrands 3

The 2 Firebrands goals were scored early in the game and the Stroud team was then chasing to get back into the match. The Stroud team played a new formation, which ultimately worked well, but it took 15 minutes or so for Stroud to familiarize themselves with it, during which time Firebrands scored. Stroud keeper Sophie York, supported by the defenders, did well to prevent Firebrands from converting any of its numerous short corners, with Sarah Thomas playing her usual great game.
The midfield line of Jenny Price, Lucy Bishop, Karen Wilsher and Pauline Edgington worked well to maintain control of the game and it was this formation which prevented much of the Firebrands attack during the second half. The Firebrands defenders were strong and the forwards found it difficult to cut through the defensive barrier.
The Stroud team played some excellent, flowing and passing hockey. They were unlucky not to score from a short-corner in the dying minutes of the match.

FORWARDS FLYING!

25-October-2008 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 5 :Yate & S Glos 2

Stroud started this match with 2 stylish goals, one from Julie Whiting from open play and the second from Lucy Bishop following a well rehearsed and beautifully executed short corner. During the first half the team played some fast, accurate and flowing hockey and was very much in command of the game. The forwards had been practising a range of attacking moves. Their commitment showed and these moves worked well, leaving the Yate defence confused and ineffective.
Yate is a strong club and during the second half of its 'squad' of players, coupled with the fact that Stroud had a player sent off for 10 minutes allowed the team back into the game and as the Stroud legs became tired so holding back the determined Yate attack became difficult. Karen Wilsher and Sarah Tudor made some great passes to the forwards and a shot from Angharrad Roberts was stopped on the line, but it was Yate that had the edge during the second half.
It was encouraging to see that 'practice makes perfect' across the Stroud forward line: the team now needs to ensure that the players' positions on the pitch are optimised at all times to provide the opportunity for easy, quick and hard passes from their team mates.

1st XI Bounces Back

25-October-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 4 - 1 :Devizes A

Omega-sponsored Stroud Men’s 1st XI played host to Devizes A this Saturday at Stratford Park. Stroud were looking to bounce back after last week's disappointing narrow defeat to Team Bath.
Stroud started the game slowly. Devizes looked in determined mood and made things difficult for the home side in the opening exchanges. Despite their opening dominance, Devizes made little impression on the Stroud goal and gradually Stroud found their feet. The turning point came midway through the first half when the Stroud forwards combined well to free Jamie Batten at the top of the D. Batten shifted the ball to his reverse side and the resulting shot fizzed past the Devizes keeper into the net. A fantastic goal that visibly knocked the confidence of the visiting side. Within minutes Stroud threatened to score again. This time a Robert Fynn penalty corner drag flick crashed against the crossbar. Stroud soon found themselves 2-0 up, however, as Danny Clifford won another short corner which Fynn duly dispatched low to the right of the keeper.
The second half saw more of the same, with Stroud’s fluent forward movement and pace constantly causing a threat. It was left to skipper Alex Waring to settle the game with 2 second half strikes, the first of which was provided by midfielder Brad Mears. His diligent running and intelligent passing won him the man-of-the-match award. Mears slotted Waring through on goal and his first time strike wrong footed the Devizes keeper to put Stroud 3-0 up. Waring then finished off proceedings applying a sharp finish to Fynn’s cross from the right. 4-0.
Devizes were able to muster a consolation goal but no more than that. Another solid Stroud performance that sees them maintain 3rd place in North Division 2.

Deserved Better

25-October-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 2 :Lydney A

It is never straightforward playing lowly-placed teams and Stroud’s fixture against a physical Lydney side was no exception. Stroud were undoubtedly the stronger side and started the match in purposeful fashion, creating several early openings as Luke Palmer, Ben Orme and Tim Norman opened up the defence. Without a recognised centre midfield, the visitors opted to keep a strong back line, but hardworking Paul Ratcliffe, Joe Jarman and Nik Sen provided positivity in the middle. Sen’s unstinting efforts earned him the man-of-the-match award. The pressure told eventually when a sweetly struck Rob Gleed free hit was met by Norman on the reverse to send the keeper the wrong way. The home side struck back fortuitously. Barney Franklin’s fine work ethic at left back led him to the opposition D one moment and back to his own the next, the hallucinogenic properties of the Forest air clearly working wonders. Inspired by this, Orme conjured up a forceful goal, scoring through a wall of defenders. His run just before half time should have led to another goal, but Lydney somehow conspired to clear the ball, promptly went straight up the pitch and equalised as the whistle went.
The second half again belonged to Stroud, Andy Murray and Mike Hallett looking reasonably untroubled in defence. With Sam Gilbert looking solid in goal, Stroud pushed for the winner. More short corners were won, but these were not converted, clearly an area for practice. Stroud opened up the Lydney defence with some good running, but shots either missed by fractions or somehow found flailing Lydney sticks to leave the visitors with a draw instead of the victory they more than deserved.

Stroud Narrowly Beaten

18-October-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 3 :Lansdown A

Stroud could not have had a worse start to the match, as the whistle went while their centre midfield player was still walking onto the pitch. Lansdown took full advantage of the gaping hole, making mincemeat of the bemused defence to earn a short corner. The resultant goal-bound shot hit a Stroud foot and the penalty flick was almost stopped by Kev Sinden but still managed to trickle over the line. The home side rallied and the luxury of a recognised centre midfield in Andy Hines gave them more leverage than last week. Andy Murray and Reg Gealer provided midfield backup, but Lansdown piled on more pressure. Rich McColl, Mike Hallett, Rob Gleed and Barney Franklin were afforded little time on the ball as they worked hard to keep the visitors at bay. Man-of-the-match Ben Orme showed resilience up front. Paul Ratcliffe, however, found himself pulled back from the forward line as Lansdown pressurised Stroud. A fine cross from the left was neatly met by Orme for the equaliser before Lansdown went ahead again. Gealer then struck a fee hit towards the top of the D and Tim Norman’s unorthodox shot clipped up from a Lansdown foot for a short corner. Gleed converted it with a clean strike to leave it 2-2 at the break. A tough end-to-end second half ensued, Stroud having changed formation to bolster their midfield. Despite having a lot of the game and forcing several short corners, they were unable to make the breakthrough. Lansdown took the lead again with a rather fortunate reverse strike and even Stroud’s late surge still left an elusive 3rd goal very much so. Next week they face lowly-place Lydney A, needing points in the bag if they are to get a decent League placing this season.

Youngsters Battle Royally

18-October-2008 :: Mens Badgers: 1 - 3 :Cirencester

Stroud’s youngsters showed their mettle on Saturday and played some fine passing hockey to come close to causing an upset against a strong, older and more experienced Cirencester side. Ian Dixon and Tim Norman provided the adult support, but although their hard work was admirable, it was the youngsters who stole the show for Stroud. Work rate could not be faulted and their endeavour and vision was a joy to behold from a team whose youngest member is only 10. Callum Lees looked accomplished at right back. Calum Norman occupied the right half spot, his great positioning and fine runs giving Finn Dixon the chance to probe the right wing, something he did in style. Brothers, Dan and Nathan Brown worked nicely down the left. Better use of space and width of the pitch was evidenced by Harry Gwilliam, Hamish Norman and Christiaan Marment, while Joe Neate did particularly well tracking the opposition centre forward. A 0-0 half time score was a real credit to the team. As the second half progressed, Stroud’s relative young age and small size got the better of them. Both sides played the ball around nicely, but Cirencester’s extra strength told eventually and, despite several telling saves by John Gilbert, they fell behind. It was tough work from then on, Stroud falling 3-0 behind but never giving up the fight. This superb spirit was emphasised when Finn Dixon’s surging run into the D was finally converted by Calum Norman to leave a respectable final score. This was a marvellous effort from the lads who showed more and more understanding and desire to pass the ball around. Signs are good for the future.

Another Good Win

12-October-2008 :: Mixed XI: 5 - 3 :Glos Police

Stroud started off strongly with some great moves which resulted in 5 first half goals. Scott Patient scored 2 in his debut game while Julie Slater managed another 2 goals and Debbie Dillion scored again, too. The defence worked hard, especially Simon Pickard with some crazy dribbling across the goal - but he recovered and cleared the ball from Stroud’s defensive half in the end. The second half was harder and the Stroud defence were worked harder as part-timer Brad Mears left early for Sunday lunch. At one point the defence parted like the red sea when Ian Atkinson wound up for a shot on goal and nutmegged the keeper. The vixens who stepped in at short notice played well and were a credit to the team.

Stroud Struggle to Contain Ross

11-October-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 3 :Ross-on-Wye

Another heatwave and a well-drilled Ross side put paid to Stroud’s unbeaten run, but there were still good signs in this tough test. The match was a competitive affair and newly promoted Ross found themselves up against it as Stroud gave them a run for their money. The return of Rich McColl at sweeper meant Andy Murray took up residence in the midfield alongside Reg Gealer who was celebrating his 40th birthday. Surrounded by the hard-working youngsters, Joe Jarman and Nik Sen, they found it tough to get a firm foothold and Ross made the breakthrough midway through the first half. Ross’ good teamwork put Stroud’s defence under pressure, Mike Hallett, Matt Watts and Rob Gleed all forced to work hard. Ben Orme’s relentless running stretched the opposition to give the visitors an outlet. Paul Ratcliffe and man-of-the-match Tim Norman helped the efforts. A quick-thinking free hit by Jarman found Norman on the move in the D and 2 touches saw the ball evade the keeper with the Ross defence bemused. Stroud’s genie had been released from the its lamp and the second half looked promising. End-to-end stuff led to several chances for both sides, Stroud unlucky not to get that final touch. Just as they began to play some good attacking hockey down the flanks, Ross hit back and took the lead again from a short corner. Stroud refused to lie down and openly attacked the home side. This inevitably led to counter-attacks and from a goalmouth melee the ball broke favourably for Ross to beat Ashley Hicks in the Stroud goal. Despite undying efforts in the last few minutes, Stroud’s genie had returned to its home, but should be well-rested for a home appearance against Lansdown A next weekend.

Ladies Encounter Resistance at Last

11-October-2008 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 6 :Nailsea

This week’s opposition was the strongest Stroud has encountered for some time. The Nailsea team was fast, accurate and determined, meaning the Stroud team took a while to adjust.

Nailsea started with an early goal, but within minutes Lucy Frost equalised for Stroud. The visitors then began to move ahead and by half time were 4-1 to the good. The second half saw Stroud begin to take control of the match, but Nailsea still found the net twice more, before Frost scored her second.

There were some important saves from the Stroud keeper, Sophie York. The midfield line of Angela Bridges, Angharrad Roberts and Karen Wilsher did a good job stopping their Nailsea counterparts during the second half, pushing the ball back into Stroud’s attacking zone. Stroud were awarded several short corners which came within inches of going into the goal.

A good turn out at training is expected this week to provide the team with the tools needed to win its next League match.

Perfect League Start Continues

11-October-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 2 :Cardiff Uni A

Stroud continued their perfect start to the League season with another win against a student side. This week, Stroud hosted the other promoted side from their division the previous season.

The game started in bright sunshine and the side looked boosted by the return of their captain, Alex Waring. His presence drove the forward line on to a tight defensive and an expansive attacking first half. Unfortunately, an early short corner move was converted by the students. This setback only served to strengthen Stroud's resolve and after a couple of unsuccessful short corners, Rob Fynn dummied a shot on the keeper and then dragged the ball into the Cardiff net.

The next two Stroud goals came from Steve Shipp, the first of his brace a fantastic solo effort that he finished with a superb reverse stick shot. His second came from a well-worked short corner move. Into the second half and Stroud were playing well, but a student uprising was expected. This came as the students stepped up their passing speed and off-the-ball movement putting pressure on the Stroud defence. This eventually led to a another goal , being conceded with 10 minutes to go. Stroud rallied, the return of Liam Tunney in midfield holding up the game and that finally gave victory to the home side.

Next week sees a top-of-the-table clash against Team Bath Buccaneers 4ths at Bath University. They are the only other team with a perfect League record this season.

Better Badgers Get a Draw

11-October-2008 :: Mens Badgers: 3 - 3 :Lansdown

Stroud’s U16 Badgers side gave a stronger performance this weekend, proving that there is a lot more to come from the very young side. Nice play from Finn Dixon, Calum Norman and Rowan Sopp in the midfield gave the younger forwards more chances. Midfield control makes all the difference and Stroud overcame a 2-goal deficit at half time to take the lead with goals from Calum Norman, Hamish Norman and Sopp. At the back, Ed McCollum and Stuart Holt looked accomplished, particularly with Callum Lees looking more confident at right back. Joe Neate played well in his first game. Lansdown pulled a goal back to leave honours even, but Stroud’s very young side did the club proud.

Good Start to the Season

5-October-2008 :: Mixed XI: 7 - 4 :Vodka Red Bulls

For the first game of the season Stroud, started well, with Alex Elder scoring a hat trick on his birthday and Julie Slater also scoring a hat trick in her first game for the mixed team. The defence worked hard but, surprisingly, 4 goals were scored by Vodka Red Bulls despite very few shots on goal. A good start to the season.

A Long Trip but the Right Result

4-October-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 0 :Swansea Uni

Stroud Men's 1st XI travelled to Swansea University, their longest journey of this season. Even a 50 minute traffic jam on the dual carriageway into Swansea, caused by Wolves’ supporters, and a driving sea breeze couldn't dampen the team’s spirits.

The match started at a high tempo, the students showing that they had some good hockey ability but lacking a finishing pass. Stroud’s central defence of Hermes Carlyon and Simon Pickard were thoroughly tested by a continually changing Swansea forward line. Defence starts at the forward line and this was demonstrated perfectly by Jamie Batten, Dan Clifford, and Rich Cartmell. With the help of the midfield, the team held their nerve and went in at half time with the score at 0-0. The team even road out 5 minutes when one of their players was sin-binned for slowing a free hit from being taken.

The second half was a completely different story. With the wind at their backs, the attacking midfielders Steve Shipp, Brad Mears and Andy Hines started to link up and controlled the game from thereon. A link-up between Mears and right back Rob Fynn sent a cross into Cartmell who controlled and shot reverse stick past the keeper’s right foot. The second goal again came from a Fynn-Cartmell link-up, this time, man-of-the-match Cartmell deflecting a short corner move deftly past the keeper. Thanks to the Omega Group for their continued sponsorship.

Stroud Take Victory in Tough Test

4-October-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 1 :Cleevillians

It may have been only the second League game of the season, but Stroud found themselves in a rather bruising encounter. Their opponents had a big win last week and the home side were keen to burst the temporary bubble, so began in a purposeful manner. As Stroud strung some moves together, Cleevillians were soon brought to task and midway through the first half a partially-cleared ball fell kindly to Tim Norman on the 25. He drove into the D and despatched his shot inside the left post with the keeper going the other way. This settled Stroud for a while and their persistent efforts could have led to more goals before half time. Nick Hitchcroft played a key role in midfield, bringing Joe Jarman and Nik Sen into play. With Ben Orme stretching Cleevillians’ defence, the home side took control, but their one-goal advantage at the interval looked potentially fragile. Despite nice attacking play, Stroud’s defence came under fire as the visitors refused to give in. A stoic performance by man-of-the-match, Mike Hallett, kept the marauders at bay, before parity was restored. This further catalyst spurred Stroud forward once more and several short corners were earned as the Cleevillian defenders were led a merry dance. Finally, a short corner strike rebounded and another shot fired before Hitchcroft bodaciously struck gold off left post and crossbar. A galvanised Cleevillians threw more into attack and Stroud were forced to defend valiantly, Kev Sinden making some important saves to keep the home side on course for victory.

Solid Start in North 2

27-September-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 1 :Shepton Mallet

Omega-sponsored Stroud HC men's 1st team started their League season with high hopes. After last year’s promotion, the side expected a higher standard of hockey and they were not disappointed by a competitive Shepton team. Stroud's Man of the Match, Jamie Batten, led a high tempo forward line performance that forced the Shepton keeper to make reaction saves time after time.
Stroud broke through when Rich Cartmell followed up on a short corner strike, lifting the ball the over a prostrate keeper. The second goal came from a penalty flick earned by Steve Shipp but dispatched by Rob Fynn into the left side of the net. Shepton pulled a goal back early in the second half through a fluid short corner move, but this just spurred on the midfield trio of Mears, Waite and Tunney. They opened the game up with quick, decisive passing. The final victory-sealing goal came for Stroud from Shipp’s arrow of a pass which left Batten the job of lifting the ball into the top netting over a prone keeper.

Unbeaten Run Intact

27-September-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 1 :Leominster A

Stroud’s opening N4-sponsored League encounter was a tricky affair played on the beach-like pitch at Leominster. The heat was draining as summers’ final throes were played out, but the visitors came away with a draw to make it 4 games without loss. The opening skirmishes promised much for Stroud, as they looked to penetrate the Leominster defence. Several sharp saves from the keeper prevented Stroud from taking an early lead, before the home side went ahead through a short corner strike, rather against the run of play. Not a team to panic, Stroud set about Leominster once more, but went into the interval a goal in arrears.

As Stroud ventured forward at every opportunity, their defence had to be wary of counter-attacks. Matt Watts deservedly earned the man-of-the-match award with a fine performance at left back. He drifted forward to offer support to the hard-working trio of Andy Hines, Ollie Paine and Nik Sen in the midfield. The latter was subjected to some midfield shenanigans on the part of Leominster’s counterparts and he ended up on the ground for his troubles. Despite the physical presence of the opposition, Stroud upped their work rate to get back into the game. Hines quick thinking pass gave Tim Norman the opportunity to reverse stick flick the ball past the keeper for the equaliser. Despite Ben Orme and Paul Ratcliffe working hard to get a winner, Stroud still had defending to do. Kev Sinden made some good saves, while Andy Murray looked more assured at sweeper. Rob Gleed’s Buzz Lightyear jaunts from right back almost gave Stroud a winner, but the little bit of luck they needed did not materialise and a draw was a respectable result, although Stroud had, on balance, done enough for victory.

Impressive Start for Stroud’s New 3rd XI

20-September-2008 :: Mens 3XI: 1 - 2 :Lydney 2nd XI

Stroud 3rd XI’s inaugural match proved a close affair and showed that the youngsters have a lot to offer in the League that starts next weekend. Lydney are actually in the same division as Stroud’s 2nd team, so this was always going to be a difficult fixture. As the match went on, Stroud looked more comfortable as they found their feet. Positioning was tricky as this was the first time the team had played together. Rob Fynn, Rich McColl and Tim Norman subbed on and off to give some experience to the side. In particular, McColl gives great guidance to the young players at the back. Calum Norman and Ish Sen worked hard in defence along with the tireless Dominic Creech. With Scott Patient looking mor assured in the midfield as the match went on, Stroud were unfortunate to go a goal behind. This was more a catalyst for the home side and they fought hard to regain parity, which they duly did when a rebounded shot was finished neatly by Zac Lees. The second half was a tough battle, but better movement from Stroud led to some fine play. Nik Sen worked hard with Rupert in the midfield and several strong attacks went down the left. Matt Price looked sharp on the right and he combined well with Tim Cox whose pace caused Lydney problems, but Stroud were just unable to break the deadlock. With less than 5 minutes left on the clock, Stroud were rocked when the ball broke favourably for Lydney and the visiting side converted the attack into the winning goal, despite Ashley Hicks best efforts in the Stroud goal. A narrow defeat for Stroud it may have been, but the signs were good for the coming weeks. Youth and commitment should win through to give Stroud 3rd XI a strong first season.

Stroud 2nd XI Still on a Roll

20-September-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 5 - 0 :North Wilts A

Stroud 2nd XI’s final friendly before the League campaign kicks off next weekend proved another winner in the blistering Swindon heat on Saturday. Fielding a team without 4 regular team members, you would be hard-pushed to notice the difference as Stroud spent the first 10 minutes camped in the opposition half. Some nice interplay led to several openings, but the close encounters failed to give them the goal they deserved. Andy Hines dominated the central midfield, his experience guiding the much younger Joe Jarman and Nik Sen alongside him. It was Hines run through the defence and lay-off that gave Luke Palmer the first goal of the match. 13 year-old Calum Norman impressed on the right of attack, his pace and work-rate belying his years. He set up Hines for his goal before Palmer snatched his second. Meanwhile, Kev Sinden watched and waited in the Stroud goal, but although being relatively untroubled he made some good saves when called into action. Mike Hallett, Matt Watts and Sam Gilbert played well at the back, the latter making a rare outfield appearance. In his role of attacking right back, Rob Gleed enjoyed his sorties forward, linking nicely with Hines, Calum Norman and Jarman down the right. Gleed got his reward for Trojanesque efforts with a goal, even though Helen of Troy may have been his prize of choice, and Palmer tucked the ball away neatly for his second before the interval.

There was no let-up in the second half, despite the extreme heat. The visitors were dangerous, particularly down the right flank. Several good chances were made, not necessarily squandered, but certainly missed. Calum Norman then laid on a nice pass for Tim Norman to finish, making it 5-0 before the heat began to take its toll. A few gaps appeared but Stroud’s pressure throughout the game had seen off their opponents who were suffering more than they were. Gleed deserved his man-of-the-match award, although he was run close by Hines. Next week they need to keep the effort and skill level high to start the League with a flourish.

Big Win Boosts 2nd XI

13-September-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 9 - 1 :Sherborne A

The second friendly match of the season saw a second win for a buoyant Stroud 2nd XI. The Indian Summer certainly arrived in Bourton-on-the-Water and both teams found the heat pretty wearing. Stroud made more of the opening skirmishes but found themselves a goal down after 10 minutes. Perhaps that proverbial kick in the pants was the inducement they needed and from that point forth they made the most of their opportunities. Sweeper Andy Murray gave Stroud an assured look at the back and a solid performance from Joe Jarman meant a relatively untroubled Kev Sinden had few saves to make. Rob Gleed returned to his more accustomed right back position and he provided sound backup for Paul Ratcliffe in front of him. Nick Hitchcroft’s man-of-the-match performance opened when he and Tim Norman combined nicely to give Hitchcroft his first goal. Another surge from Stroud soon saw Hitchcroft strike his second from the top of the D. With Matt Price working well on the right and Tim Cox providing the left-side attack, Stroud made more chances. Dominic Creech suffered a blow to the ankle and the visitors went down to 10 men for much of the first half. Cox moved back but Stroud were the stronger even with a man down. A free hit just outside the D was taken in text book style by Rob Gleed and Norman deftly deflected it for his opener.

The second half started with Creech now wide left. Stroud were rampant as they spread the ball around, Nick Sen seing a lot of the ball in midfield. Their pace and team support made the biggest difference between the sides and a powerful Ratcliffe run gave Norman his second. Super passing gave Creech an easy goal at the left post before Gleed got on the scoresheet, too. Sen’s quick pass into the D gave Norman his hat trick before Hitchcroft had two half chances to seal his. More slick interplay gave Creech another as Hitchcroft unselfishly passed in the D. With Jarman, Murray and Gleed pushing up in support, Stroud continued to pile on the pressure and another scything attack gave Price a goal shortly before the end.

With Stroud fielding a mixture of 2nd and 3rd team players, there were some good signs, particularly from the passing and teamwork perspective. Youngsters Jarman, Price, Sen and Creech acquitted themselves well and newcomer Cox looked hungry and efficient. Effort was exemplary and rare mistakes were soon remedied. A marvellous performance !

Solid Start

13-September-2008 :: Ladies 1XI: 0 - 0 :Cheltenham CS A

This was the first match of the season for the full 1st Xl squad and the team's training over the past few weeks paid dividends as the passing was strong, accurate and considered.
Stroud's possession of the ball was excellent and the team moved the ball easily between players. Julie Slater, Lucy Frost, Karen Whitehead, Elaine Noone and Sarah Tudor all had strong shots on goal saved by the CS keeper.
Stroud's defence had to be alert to the breakaway runs that their opponents were prone to initiating. Steph Woodward and Jade O'Connell made some great defensive tackles, preventing the CS forwards from shooting on goal. Despite their efforts, the team's new keeper, Sophie York, was called upon several times to make sharp saves, preventing the Cheltenham side from gaining the goal it so desperately sought.
This was a good start by the Stroud team which must continue to improve its fitness levels in readiness for the imminent league season.

Good Start for the New Look Badgers

13-September-2008 :: Mens Badgers: 0 - 4 :Witney

With several key players now too old for boys’ Badgers hockey, the new-look Stroud youngsters’ team were up against a more experienced side in Witney. Stroud showed great commitment and a desire to pass the ball around despite their lack of game-play. Calum Norman was pushed hard in midfield and Finn Dixon worked well on the right. Stuart’s debut at the back saw a determined performance. Charlie Ellis showed increased strength in his second season and Callum Lees displayed improving positional play at the back. The youngest newcomers all showed great potential. 10-year-old Hamish Norman displayed good skills and looked for nice passes. Ed Paddock, Ben Drury and Christiaan Marment worked strongly, particularly showing nice interplay on the wings. A little more confidence in the next game should see a good result. The home side held Witney to half time but the visitors’ strength, largely through older, more experienced players, eventually told. A fine start for Stroud, witnessed by a vociferous, if small, crowd who were all suitably impressed.

Promising Start to the Season

6-September-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 1 - 2 :Lansdown

Stroud went into the game with the bare 11 players, knowing this would be a struggle with the style and formation of hockey Lansdown like to play.
Stroud started the first half very strongly, Dan Clifford and Rob Dove making some excellent forays into the Lansdown half from there wing-back positions. The attacking midfielders, Brad Mears and Steve Shipp, linked well with the forward line to break down the Lansdown defence. A short corner was won and Rob Fynn despatched a drag flick into the top left corner over a logging keeper. Matt Waite continued to boss the midfield but a goal was given away at the back post before the interval.
The second half started brightly for Stroud but the loss of their captain, Alex Waring, to injury after 10 minutes meant they were up against it. Lansdown showed great sporting spirit and lent Stroud a player so they weren't short. The game continued in good spirits before Lansdown nicked a goal 5 minutes before the end. All in all, this was a positive start to the new season and an excellently-spirited game.

Encouraging Start

6-September-2008 :: Mens 2XI: 4 - 2 :Lansdown 3rds

Stroud’s first match of the season saw a nice blend of youth and experience with ages ranging from 17 to 45. The sprightly start by Stroud should have led to a first half lead but somehow Lansdown and the ball conspired to keep them out. An assured defence of Mike Hallett and experimental sweeper, Andy Murray, thwarted early advances by Lansdown. Nik Sen used his pace in midfield to help Andy Hines take control and they fed Reg Gealer and Paul Ratcliffe on the right and left, respectively. Rob Gleed tried his hand at right midfield and Tim Norman used his zimmer to good effect as Stroud came close in the first half.

Stroud’s relentless pressure proved too much for Lansdown in the second half, Norman’s turn in the D leading to a rather tame shot, but Gleed’s light sabre move in front of the keeper did enough to put him off. With one goal under their belts, Stroud soon extended their lead with a super passing move with Ratcliffe, Hines and Gleed all involved before Norman cracked in his second. As Stroud felt they had done enough, a lapse in concentration led to a Lansdown goal. Another nice move from Stroud gave Hines a deserved goal from a tight angle before Lansdown pulled back another from a penalty flick. Kev Sinden was forced to make a couple of fine stops before Stroud sealed victory when left winger Ratcliffe found himself in the perfect spot on the right and he converted from Gealer’s fine pass.

Dominic Creech and Matt Watts played solidly at the back in what was an encouraging start. Thanks also to Stroud’s 13-year old Calum Norman who umpired the first half.

Gutted!!!!!

15-March-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 4 :Cardiff & Uwic B

Stoud travelled to Cardiff knowing that only a win would be good enough to take the league title. Unfortunately it was not to be there day. The Cardiff side raised their game to play 'their best game of the season' to beat a determined squad of Stroud players. Goals from Alex Waring and a top left corner drag flick from Rob Fynn were good enough to recover from an early goal by Cardiff. This left STroud bouyent at half time but knowing that it was going to be a tough second half. Cardiff came out the hungrier side with Stroud looking nervous. This lead to 3 unanswered goals and a sinking feeling to the entire side with the knowledge that after a of heading the table the side was going to finish second. Promotion is guaranteed so the side now looks forward a greater hockey challenge next season. This year is the clubs 80th season all ex players and supporters are welcome to the celebrations on the 12th April. See website for details. www.stroudhockeyclub.com

Students teach Stroud a lesson

23-February-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 6 :Cardiff Uni A

Omega sponsored Stroud travelled to Cardiff knowing that a win would seal the league title, but this was not to be. A very strong university side turned up to play and for the first ten minutes of the game Stroud were in disarray. A short corner was won and duly converted by Matt Waite to settle the nerves. The back lash from the students was instant and they scored two very quick goals. Stroud battled back and Dan Clifford was hacked in the D to win a penalty flick. Captain Rob Fynn stepped up and slotted the flick into the top right corner past a static Cardiff keeper. The second half started brightly but the youth and size of the student squad started to come into play. Stroud lost 4 more goals with no reply. Promotion has been guaranteed this weekend though due to the third place Bridgend team losing. On the 1st March Stroud men's 1st entertain Lansdown at 2pm at Stratford park, the team is looking to keep their 1st place in the league with only 3 must win games left.

Stroud play best hockey of the season

9-February-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 4 - 0 :Bridgend A

Omega sponsored Stroud travelled to play third place Bridgend. The team where in a buoyant mood knowing that a win would put them 12 points clear of third place with 5 games to go. Stroud started well with the dynamic running of the rotating forward line of Batten, Shipp, Waring, and Clifford. The return of Man of the match Tunney strengthen Stroud's midfield to form a resilient unit with Pearce and Waite.

The pressure finally paid of as a decisive pass from Fynn spilt the Bridgend defence for a first time finish from Clifford. The half time break couldn't come early enough for the raged Bridgend side. Bridgend change there formation in the second half but this didn't effect Stroud's fluid play. Three short corners where converted in the second half by Pearce, Fynn and finally by the prolific drag flicker Matt Waite. A couple of excellent final minute saves by goal keeper Cruickshank meant Stroud kept their 7th away clean sheet of the season.

Stroud maintain their top spot in the Severn league, next weekend Stroud entertains Whitchurch HC for a 2pm start at Stratford Park.

Stroud stutter, but come away with points

19-January-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 1 :Cheltenham B

Omega sponsored Stroud started with their flowing passing moves and decisive movement continuing from their previous weeks performance against Llanishen. However an early defensive mistake at the back let Cheltenham gain the lead through a crisp finish. Stroud were undeterred and continued the pressure on the Cheltenham defence. Only the outstanding work of the Cheltenham keeper keep the Stroud side at bay. The Cheltenham keeper was forced to make a huge number of quick reaction saves and great blocks by the quick shots and following up by the Stroud forwards. 10 minutes before the half time Matt Waite Stroud's drag flick specialist stepped up for a penalty corner and levelled the score with a low left shot passed the keeper.

The second half continued in the same way as the first with Stroud dominating the possession and pitch position, any breaks that Cheltenham had were quickly stifled by the defence of Hermes Carlyon and Matt Waite. Stroud finally broke ahead when Brad Mears finished off another good passing move. Man of the Match Liam Tunney's work rate and strength in the midfield pushed Stroud on to close off the game and stay 4 points clear at the top of the Severn division.

A Hangover Cure

12-January-2008 :: Mens 1XI: 4 - 0 :Llan. & Caerphilly

Omega sponsored Stroud Mens 1st XI travelled to Llanishen & Caerphilly on Saturday and set about rectifying and age old problem. For what now seems like decades, Stroud have suffered from terrible New Years hangovers. It must be something to do with all the cider that gets drunk in the mid season break! Last season, that hangover lasted all of January and February and post Christmas points were like gold dust. This season our table topping boys were determined to blow away the cobwebs with a win first game back.
Things didn't get underway too well, half the team getting lost on the way. A dodgy map and a few heated phone calls later and Stroud were just about ready to start, all bit it 10 minutes late.
This may have looked like the hangover in full effect, however, as soon as Stroud pushed the ball back all that was forgotten.
Stroud opened the game with a period of solid possession, sounding out their opponents and shifting the ball fluidly from flank to flank. 20 minutes in and most of the possession to Stroud the scores were level but it only seemed a matter of time before they chalked one up. The Caerphilly keeper made a couple of good saves to deny Waring from close range and a Pearce flick shot. The opening goal was a flowing move, quick passing in the midfield through Tunney and Mears found Dan Clifford in loads of space at the top of the D. His first time slap-shot just had enough on it to beat the keeper, 1-0 Stroud.
Stroud soon converted their superior possession and pressure with a second. This time Jamie Batten arriving at the far post to tuck away his first goal of 2008. 2-0. Just before half time Stroud managed to put all fears of a hangover repeat well and truly out of mind. Captain Rob Fynn stepped to confidently convert a penalty flick. 3-0 at half time and Stroud in the ascendency.
Second half saw much of the same. Caerphilly struggled to gain any rhythm and despite pushing forward and searching for a way back into the game, keeper Cruickshank was only required to make one save in the whole game. As Caerphilly probed the resolute Stroud back line, (Dove,Fynn, Carlyon and the scruffiest man in hockey, Ram Man) this in turn left space for the Stroud forwards to further exploit. A slick one touch move encompassing the length of the pitch saw Batten coolly slot in his second of the game. 4-0 Stroud.
Stroud saw out the remainder of the game, constantly threatening the Caerphilly back line with their movement and pace up front and frustrating them in the middle with the solid tackling of Waite and Tunney. As confidence grew some nice skills were on show but none of which resulted in any further score. A great win and a good hangover remedy!

Stroud run out of legs after a good start.

8-December-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 2 :Cardiff Uni B

Omega Sponsored Stroud started the game brightly with good attacking play from the make shift front line of Batten, Van Heerden, and Waring. the students seemed to struggle with the lines of running that the Stroud team where playing. An early penalty corner was won the captain stepped up to strike. A good injection from Clifford enabled Fynn to produce a looping strike that flew past the keeper into the bottom right hand corner.

Just before half time another good break from Stroud enabled Clifford to reverse stick strike at the goal, Van Heerden, appearing in his last game before returning to South Africa, deflected the ball past the stationary keeper.

In the second half Stroud continued to play quick hockey but the lack of substitutes showed and a short corner was dispatched by the students along with another goal 5 minutes before the finish of the game.

The men's firsts remain top of the Severn League 4 points clear of the next team.

Stroud Top at Half Way Point

1-December-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 2 :Cardiff & Uwic B

Midway through the league season and Stroud Mens 1st XI at sitting at the top of the pile in the Severn Division.

On Saturday Stroud’s fourth win on the bounce insured that they stay top of the league having completed the first half of the league fixtures. Playing at home to a competitive Cardiff and UWIC side Stroud started the brighter of the two sides. Some crisp passing and good movement put Cardiff on the back foot. After a few early chances fell Stroud’s way it wasn’t long before Stroud found themselves in front. Some neat inter passing down the right-hand flank eventually freed Jamie Batten who turned his man and slammed a strong reverse stick ball across the D. The ball was met half volley on the run by striker Alex Waring who rattled the ball home with panache off the underside of the bar. His first time strike drawing cheers of delight from his team mates.

Stroud continued to dominate proceedings in the first half. Man of the match Dan Clifford got an easy tap in to put Stroud 2-0 up, just reward for all his hard efforts. Some more solid passing and movement ensued as Stroud probed for their third. Waring popped up again 5 minutes before half time to oblige; Matt Pearce supplying the pass after a strong run into the D. 3-0 Stroud. Cardiff managed to force a goal back on the stroke of half time which gave them some heart for the second half.

Second half saw Cardiff rally. Playing a stronger more physical game. This lead to some scrappy inter changes for a good period of the half before Cardiff were able to force a second goal after a dominate period of play. Stroud were unable to find the same rhythm that saw them dominate the first period. Stroud suffered an edgy final few minutes as Cardiff pushed for an equaliser. However, this seasons more disciplined and resilient Stroud team were able to hold for a well deserved 3-2 victory.

Norman Man Conquers Wotton

24-November-2007 :: Mens 2XI: 2 - 0 :Wotton-u-Edge A

Omega sponsored Stroud followed up their outstanding performance last week with another solid display at Stratford park on saturday. With a Wotten team bouyed by the return of their strongest players, Stroud needed to start well and they did just that. Ian Gill and Nick Hitchcroft grabbed hold of the midfield supported well by the wide men, Rob Waite and Matt Watts. It was not long before Stroud won their first short corner, which was cleverly put away by man of the match Tim Norman. 1:0 to Stroud and for once the team pushed on and continued to dominate for the rest of the half. Just before the break Norman doubled his tally after a clever deflection wrong footed the Wotten defenders, making it 2:0. At the change around emphasis was put on defensive duties and retaining the ball. Both were carried out effectively with good pressure from Ben Orme helping keep the ball in the oppositions half for as long as possible. The whole of the defence kept chances to a minimum and when called upon, Kev Sinden made some fine saves. Stroud could have extended their lead but it was not to be. This result sees the Stroud team consolidate their position in the top half of the table and with the new league leaders in their sights next week, another good performance will be needed.

Tremendous Performance from the Badgers

24-November-2007 :: Mens Badgers: 4 - 3 :Lansdown

Stroud played probably their finest hockey of the season to date, but gave themselves a mountain to climb as they went 3-0 down within the first 15 minutes. Even these 3 goals were against the run of play. The tremendous fightback was completed with a superb second half performance with the whole team working together. Their use of space, particularly keeping wide in attack, was the most important aspect of this win. Lansdown had won all of the League matches to date, Stroud having won all bar one which was drawn. This was a superb scalp and bodes well for the games against Cirencester on Saturday and North Somerset the following week, before a welcome break for Christmas.

Modges Marvels Victorious

17-November-2007 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 0 :Hereford A

Strouds Jekyll and Hyde season continued on saturday and it was the unfortunate Hereford team that was put to the sword, by the free flowing Modges Marvels. Stroud dominated from the very first moments when good pressure from Ben Orme and Paul Ratcliffe forced the Hereford defence into giving the ball away. Rich Cartmell then boosted his growing reputation by demanding the ball before cooly slotting it home, sixty seconds gone and Stroud were one goal to the good. The league leaders had no responce and with the midfield of Rich/Reg/Ronald Gealer and Nick Hitchcroft running the middle of the park, it was only a matter of time before numerous more chances were created. Unfortunately there was no further score in the first half though, which was the only dissapointment from the whole game.

The second half saw Hereford stage a galant fightback, however it was to no avail. Graham Morris, Andy Murray and Rob Sharman all defended impecably and with good tracking back from Rob Waite, Sam Gilbert in goal was just left to clear up the odd loose ball. Hereford had no answer to Strouds spirit and with captain Richard McColl finally playing to a half decent standard they can expect more good results to come their way. An amazing team perfomance all round.

Lansdown 2 Stroud 4

17-November-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 4 - 2 :Lansdown A

Omega sponsored Stroud Mens 1st XI played away at local rivals Lansdown on Saturday. Looking for a win to maintain their position at the top of the Severn Division.

Stroud started well playing disciplined hockey, defending from the front. Despite dominating the early exchanges Stroud fell behind to Lansdown's first attack of the game; keeper Cruikshank making two fine saves before the Lansdown forward put in the rebound. Stroud quickly regrouped and began to exert more pressure on the Lansdown goal. Clifford won a short corner, with good skills down the right hand side, which skipper Rob Fynn duly dispatched to level the score. Dan Clifford was soon back in the action, meeting a pinpoint Liam Tunney pass in the D and deflecting into the bottom right hand corner of the Lansdown goal. A fine finish to a great Stroud move. Lansdown stuck to their task though and managed to force an equaliser just before the half time break.

Stroud started the second half confidant that they would be able to convert their superior possesion into more goals. With tireless running upfront from forwards Waring, Batten and Clifford Stroud's midfield duo of Tunney and Mears were able to dominate the second period. This enabled the creative passing of Matt Pearce to come to the fore. A defence splitting long pass from Pearce was deftley touched passed the Lansdown keeper by Alex Waring to put Stroud back in front. As Stroud's confidence grew their flowing hockey began to open up the Lansdon defence time after time. A great passsing move was met in the D by right back Van der Heerden whose chip shot skimmed the top of the bar. Van der Heerden atoned for his miss a few minutes later by touching in a Matt Waite short corner at the back post.

In the last 10 minutes Lansdown found it hard to get hold of the ball and the Stroud defence found themselves with relatively little to do. Stroud frustrated their opposition and closed the game out for a good away win.

Man of the Match Dan Clifford.

Field day for the Lucys

17-November-2007 :: Ladies 1XI: 2 - 2 :Cirencester

Both teams are tying second place in the league and this was always going to be a fiercely fought match. Cirencester went ahead in the first half with a goal from a short corner, and the Stroud defence had been under relentless pressure all that time.

The second half saw the Stroud team begin to get into its stride and the forwards did well at maximising the relatively few chances that Stroud had to score. Lucy Moir fired home a great strike to equalise for Stroud, then Cirencester pulled ahead again with a strike from a short corner. The Stroud team never gives up and the continued pressure allowed Lucy Frost to power home the equaliser. Fellow forwards Karen Whitehead and Claire Crosthwaite played well in moving the ball into the Cirencester goal area.

Steph Woodward made some excellent tackles and Amy Lloyd-Jones made a crucial save in the dying minutes of the game. Jude Hudson and Sarah Tudor fought hard and ran tirelessly in mid-field to retain possession for Stroud.

Badgers Leave it Late

17-November-2007 :: Mens Badgers: 3 - 3 :Yate

Stroud Badgers were fortunate to go a goal up early on when a fine pass found Fin Dixon in the perfect position near the far post to flick the ball home. This boost was needed as they found it difficult to gain a firm foothold on the game, despite Joe Jarman’s strength in midfield. The lack of width and shape allowed Yate to apply pressure and this duly resulted in an equaliser. Half time was a welcome respite for Stroud and should have given them a wake-up call, but the second period saw Yate again in the ascendance. The visitors wanted the match more than Stroud and this lack or pace and urgency played into Yate’s hands as they scored twice without reply. A slight shift in positions with 15 minutes to go offered Stroud a life-line and they began to show more desire and kept the ball wider. Dominic Creech worked hard up front and Ed McCollum supported well up the right flank without forgetting his defensive duties. Calum Norman made a great impact down the right and his determination and skill set up the tireless Zac Lees for Stroud’s second. Less than 5 minutes later, another surging attack gave Lees his second. Time ran out with Stroud in command but this fine 15 minute end to the match was too late in the day to seal victory in an entertaining game for the onlookers.

A good performance by the league leaders

10-November-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 1 :Cardiff Uni A

Stroud rally together after the losses of the two previous weeks to win and go top of their league again.

This was always going to be a tough game with the students playing a open and expansive style of hockey. Stroud started the game under pressure from some good build up play and weathered the early storm. The forwards of Waring, Clifford, Batten and Shipp work tirelessly to give Stroud a foothold in the game. This came from the award of a short corner which Fynn slotted home. The students got back on level pegging before the first half was over with a well taken deflection goal.

The second half started brightly with the midfield pressure of Tunney paying off when Waring stole the ball from a free hit, rounded the first defender, then the keeper and slotted the ball home. The rest of the half saw tense struggle of two very well match sides, excellent saves by Cruickshank in goal helped to keep Stroud in the game and to go top of the league.

Next week is an away game to old foes Lansdown.

Another frustating loss

3-November-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 3 :Whitchurch C

Stroud Travelled to Whitchurch expecting a tough game. With Whitchurch 1st team being in the National league playing their 4ths is no easy prospect. The Whitchurch team was full of ex 1st team players with bags full of experience.



The first half started very competitively with Stroud weathering some goods attacks and eventually breaking the deadlock with a short corner strike from Fynn. Stroud continued to press and opened up the whitchurch defence again when a ball from Shipp found Clifford who took the ball round the keeper and put the ball in the net.



Just before the end of the first half whitchurch got a goal that lifted their spirits for the second half. In the second half stroud had plenty of pressure that they just couldn't convert. Unfortunately whitchurch didn't have the same problem and converted their chances to take the game. Stroud remain in the top 4 two points from the top and with a crucial home game against Cardiff uni next weekend.

Comprehensive Win

3-November-2007 :: Mens 2XI: 4 - 1 :Cleevillians

A 15-minute period in the first half was all it took to secure victory for Stroud in this League encounter. They had a dire 10 minutes to begin with, however, and could easily have given away a goal, but they clicked into gear with Andy Hines smartly-taken free hit on the edge of the D met by Tim Norman to tuck under his arm into the goal. Old habits die hard. This provided the inspiration for the home side to power forward. Ian Gill and Nick Hitchcroft added extra weight in midfield and a few minutes later a short corner was converted by Rich McColl. Rob Waite’s interplay with Norman down the right led to Stroud’s second, Rich Cartmell perfectly positioned on the far post to receive the cross. It was pretty much all Stroud and a text book move saw a neat pull-back from the line, but the resultant shot then fell to Norman. He flicked another rebound over the keeper for Stroud’s fourth.

The second half should have seen Stroud extend their lead but only after they let Cleevillians in within 30 seconds to pull a goal back. Stroud then put on the pressure but failed to capitalise on it. Defensively, Stroud had no worries, with solid performances from Rob Sharman, Andy Murray and McColl, in particular. Such a strong foundation meant that attacks could be built left and right. The space the home side created was of Grand Canyon proportions at times and although under no real threat, should still have wrapped up the game with more goals.

Hines won man-of-the-match, having shown great skill and persistence. This was a fitting end as he will be leaving for the USA and will not play for the rest of this season.

Bad loss for Stroud

27-October-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 1 - 2 :Bridgend A

Unfortunately Stroud took this game by the horns but the teams finishing skills where not on form. 80% possesion but not enough goals. A learning experience!!! Highlight of the day was Batten's tight finish flick high into the goal from a tight angle from the left hand side.

Stroud are 5 and 0

20-October-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 1 - 0 :Neath

Stroud had there longest journey of the season away to Neath. This was there bogey side of the last few season so nerves where on edge. The game started as expected with Stroud looking dominate but nervy. The forward line of Waring, Batten, Shipp and Clifford work tireless trying to break down a very solid Neath defence. Neath packed out the defence with 10 bodies which made it very difficult to break down on all but the quickest of counter attacks. The game was still at a stale mate after 55 minutes of play, this was the point where Stroud game plan changes to three touch hockey.

Immediately the pace of the team opened up Neath with a chance falling to Waring. 3 minutes later a quick counter attack move from the right back put thoughClifford who feed the ball into Shipp in the D for a classy finish.

Next week see second place Bridgend travel to Stroud to try and break down the 5 match winning streak

Control but not enough Goals

20-October-2007 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 2 :Lydney A

Not even the brilliant early autumn sunshine could inspire Stroud enough to secure victory on Saturday. They took very little time to slip into attacking mode and the team’s shape was good. Slick moves, particularly down the right involving Rich Gealer and Ian Gill put Lydney under pressure. Andy Hines looked confident in midfield and a solid defence gave Stroud a sound platform. Unfortunately for Stroud, several missed opportunities, after some class interplay, cost them dearly. Lydney had little sight of goal in the first half but somehow managed to convert virtually their only chance of the half and the home side found themselves one down at the break.

More pressure from Stroud was the main feature of the second half. Some lovely passing produced some more good chances, but it was Lydney who were fortunate to get a second as the ball somehow ricocheted into Stroud’s goal. Given the dominance of Stroud, it was almost inconceivable that they would be chasing 2 goals, but they eventually pulled one back when Hines pass was tucked into the corner by Tim Norman. Sustained effort gave Stroud chances for an equaliser and in the dying moments another slick move with Norman’s pass finding Rich Cartmell in a fine position. He crossed to Rich McColl who appeared to be fouled as he attempted to put the ball into an open goal and with nothing given, the game ended with an undeserved defeat for Stroud. They played the better hockey and created chances but failure to take those opportunities let them down.

Seconds Click up the Gears

13-October-2007 :: Mens 2XI: 4 - 1 :Gloucester City C

Omega-sponsored Stroud seemed to have clicked into gear as they put paid to Gloucester on Saturday. A bright opening period saw them apply pressure to Gloucester’s defence but it was a while before they made the all-important breakthrough. Experienced Reg Gealer, Nick Hitchcroft and Andy Hines gave Stroud a sound footing in the midfield area and a young Rich Cartmell sprung up and down the right wing, linking well with Tim Norman. Ben Orme went close as Stroud proved attacks could come from anywhere. A flicked shot following a short corner was deemed goal-bound and Hines despatched the resultant penalty flick coolly. Knowing that a single slip could end in disaster, Stroud’s defence endeavoured to devour Gloucester’s attempts. Mike Hallett had another strong game, partnering captain Rich McColl’s solid presence. Andy Murray continued to show his enforced switch to defensive duties could be an inspired one, looking strong at right back.

A one-goal advantage at the break was not really enough and Stroud needed a cushion. With Orme and Norman running Gloucester ragged, several short corners were won. Hines put one of these away to ease the pressure. Shortly afterwards, a classic move saw Cartmell hit the back line and slip the ball across the face of goal to an unmarked Paul Ratcliffe who deservedly netted Stroud’s third. It was really game over, but Stroud still managed to extend the lead when Orme’s reverse stick pass almost mirrored the previous goal and Cartmell scored from a narrow angle. Gloucester were playing for pride and a relatively untroubled Sam Gilbert was finally beaten in the closing moments. This was a real team performance and Stroud were well worth their win and look forward to a home game next weekend.

Badgers Win Again

13-October-2007 :: Mens Badgers: 1 - 0 :Wotton-under-Edge

Goalscorer: Dominic Creech

Stroud Badgers continued their winning streak with a deserved victory over a tough Wotton side, Dominic Creech scoring the only goal of the match in the second half.

A stuttering win but ne none the less

13-October-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 5 - 3 :Gloucester City B

Stroud struggled to get there heads in gear on the muggy Saturday afternoon. A solo run from Steve Shipp created space at the top of the D and threaded the shot passed the keeper. Further goals from Alex WAring (2), Jamie Batten and Matt Pearce scured the gam in what look like a very unconvincing performance from the league leaders. A better performance will be required this weekend against tough opposition Neath.

Second Win of the Weekend

7-October-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 3 - 0 :Cardiff Uni B

The second game of the weekend brought another good defensive performance from the Men's 1st. This time spearheaded by the forward lines retention of possession. The first half started nervously with a fit university side playing the ball nicely round the pitch. The deadlock was broken when a penalty corner was won and Mears scored from a straight strike at goal. Although Stroud continued to battle they couldn't get another goal before the break. After the break Stroud came out and played their best half of hockey this season. The lines of running and ball retention of Shipp, Batten, Clifford and Waring was superb and their constant pressure brought another short corner which Matt Waite drag flicked low though the keepers legs. The final goal of the game came from a series of eight short quick passes to work the ball into and around the right hand side of the D where Liam Tunney calmly put the ball passed the keeper, a fantastic team goal.

Stroud keep a clean sheet

6-October-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 4 - 0 :Cheltenham B

Stroud waited until the England rugby had finished to start their game. They came out fired up and put on a good performance of their own. The first goal came from Waring getting on the end of a hard ball into the D from Fynn and deflected it into the goal. The midfields passing continued to control the game for Stroud and brought another penalty corner. A reverse stick strike from Fynn put the ball in the back of the net to make it 0-2. Into the second half and the third goal came from a bit of magic from Waring who spun his defender then struck the ball deftly passed the planted keeper. With the game opening up fynn put a ball to Pearce playing on the right wing who sprinted all the way into the D with the ball and finished off his run with a diving shot to put the ball in the net. The defence of Pickard, Waite and Carlyon played fantastically in keeping some very skilled attackers at bay. Hermes Carlyon picked up man of the match for his superb efforts.

Stuttering Start for Mens 2nd XI

29-September-2007 :: Mens 2XI: 1 - 2 :Leominster A

Omega-sponsored Stroud suffered a second consecutive League defeat, despite an improved performance away to Leominster. Another slow start saw their opponents take a 5th minute lead which immediately put Stroud firmly on the back foot. Tim Norman and Ben Orme, however, spearheaded Stroud’s recovery and the high work-rate of the entire team saw them take control of the match. Inexplicably, Stroud failed to score more than a solitary goal, this coming from man-of-the-match Orme who pounced on a short corner save to convert with a reverse-stick strike. Stroud continued to apply pressure but Leominster scored another against the run of play. A dozen short corners must have been earned but Stroud failed to score from them. Mike Hallett did a good job in defence and there were some sparks of inspiration, Rich Cartmell and Paul Ratcliffe producing some nice interplay down the left. Ultimately, a lack of cohesion between the different parts of the team left Stroud the also-rans but there are signs that the tide will turn. It is still early days but winning ways must start soon.

Fine Start to the Season

29-September-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 4 - 0 :Llan. & Caerphilly

Stroud started their league season in impressive style. The forward line of Shipp, Batten, Waring and Clifford spearheaded the defensive performance which saw Stroud shut out the opposition. The organisation and work rate from the was a big leap from the disappointment of last season. The first half break through came from a short corner strike from Brad Mears. The second goal came 30 seconds before the break by Fynn off another short corner. After the half time break Stroud resumed there strong defensive play with Pickard and Carlyon. This set the grounding for Stroud's new South African Kyle Van Heerden to take the keeper on, the keeper made a save but turned round and put the ball in the back of the net. The final goal came at the end of a flowing passing move that saw Alex Waring's deflection shot pass the keeper in to the left hand corner of the gaol, the move was straight of the training ground. Next week see a double header, away on Saturday to Cheltenham and away again on Sunday to Cardiff Uni.

Badger Beating - Young Guns Go for It

29-September-2007 :: Mens Badgers: 3 - 0 :Cheltenham

Goalscorers: Calum Norman (2), Zac Lees

Chalford Building Supplies sponsored Stroud Badgers produced another solid and controlled performance, winning the 2nd League game of the season. In a match that highlighted good use of space and a desire to play entertaining hockey shown by both sides, Stroud soon got the better of Cheltenham. A goal-hungry Zac Lees opened the scoring and Stroud’s use of both flanks saw Cheltenham stretched to the limits. Victory never looked in doubt and all of Stroud’s players worked hard to keep control. Nick Sen and Joe Jarman were particularly strong in the midfield. Calum Norman’s excellent work on the right wing was rewarded with a goal midway through the first half and good positioning in the D gave him his 2nd of the match shortly before half time, following a good through pass from Lees. Although Stroud failed to extend their lead in the second half, they did more than enough to warrant victory. Fin Dixon looked sharp on the left and was well-supported by Ed McCollum at left back. Stroud continued to create chances but Cheltenham somehow managed to thwart these efforts. This was a comprehensive victory for Stroud , richly deserved and played in the right spirit throughout.

Golden Goal Defeat for Stroud

23-September-2007 :: Mens 1XI: 2 - 3 :Wimborne Wayfarers

Stroud travelled to Dorset on Sunday, and unveiled their new playing kit sponsored by the Omega Group. They were playing the Wimborne Wayfarers in the first round of the Hockey Association knockout competition.

The game started with Wimborne having the upper hand. Stroud seemed to struggle to get the heads in gear after the long drive. The defensive team of Simon Pickard and Matthew Waite worked tirelessly to keep the Wimborne forward line at bay. However the forwards still managed to get some quality shots away in the direction of the goal. With the 1st team keeper Injured Sam Gilbert step in and showed why he was in the County set up at the U17 level. Sam looked cool and calm when making save after save to keep Stroud in the game.

Stroud welcomed back the newly wed Matthew Pearce to the side and with Liam Tunney and Brad Mears the midfield Trio has the legs to run any team off the park. The latter part of the first half saw Stroud beginning to keep hold of the ball and string some passes together. This pressure enabled Stroud to have a couple of forays into the Oppositions D. With 30 seconds to go before the half time hotter Wimborne broke down the right hand side and with some skill beat the defenders. The ball was put across the the left hand post where a quality finish to the left hand bottom corner beat the keeper.

Stroud came out to the second half with a greater confidence in their stride and the forward line of Waring, Shipp and Batten exploited the width of the pitch that had eluded the side in the first half. Some flowing passing moves saw shots from Waring and Batten being saved by the keeper. A shot corner was then awarded and Matthew Waite stepped up and slotted the ball in the bottom left hand corner with a perfectly executed drag flick. The belief was now in the Stroud side and with Hines rolling back the years and playing at right back the sides shape seemed to be working perfectly. Stroud were commanding the possession and creating chance after chance. The next short corner that was awarded was injected to the top of the D where Mears was waiting to stroke the ball passed the keeper, once again shaving the left hand post. Stroud where now up 2-1 with 5 minutes to go. The ball was unfortunately lost with 30 second to go and Wimborne earned a penalty corner. Their striker side stepped the on rushing Waite and slotted the ball into the goal. Extra time, Golden goal now loomed.

The extra time started and almost immediately a short corner was awarded against Stroud. In a Carbon copy of his last goal the Wimborne striker finished the game. This was an unfortunate end to what had been a good, competitive fixture between the two clubs. The umpires both deserve a mention for their efforts in making the tie an enjoyable occasion. Best of Luck to Wimborne in the next round.