Archive for the 'Match Reports' Category
25 March 2012 at 11:35
The score of the match did not reflect the relative possession of the ball by each team: Stroud played some good, controlled hockey and strikes on goal from Sandra Glass, Carrie Sanders, Nic Kelly-Davies and Andrea Preston were all just wide of the mark. Much of the Bourton attack was from the team’s left wing and time and time again Katherine Stevens was required to intervene with a strong tackle. The defence fought hard to maintain its clean sheet and was unlucky to concede a goal scored from a short corner. Midfielders Victoria Sharpe and Pauline Edgington (player of the match) remained calm despite some unusual tackling by their opponents and the Stroud team was disappointed not to at least draw the match.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
19 March 2012 at 09:44
Stroud Men’s U16 Badgers, resplendent in their Ecotricity-sponsored shirts, came from behind on Saturday to conjure a win in the glorious pre-Spring sunshine. Whatever they had for breakfast was not conducive to playing hockey, however, as they were slow out of the blocks. Their relaxed attitude clearly masked their true feelings on the matter, however, plus a concerted effort from Alex Richards, Jed Stenning and Joe Freer thwarted an urgent-looking Wotton forward line. The wake-up call really hit home as keeper Bryn Nicol was beaten. A couple of substitutions ensued, Jack Thompson and Andrew Reader coming on up front to inject fresh legs. Clearly the shuffling of players began to work. Tom Freer and Hamish Norman looked stronger at centre midfield. Their confident play showed Stroud’s burgeoning passing ability. In truth, Stroud began to move the ball around with more confidence, encouraged by their adult mentor, Craig Wathen. Seb Wathen relished his chances to run and some neat moves on both flanks, involving Ed Paddock on the left and Gab Robinson on the right, put the home side firmly on the back foot. Ed Goulding’s strength and vision offered good support to Norman and Tom Freer. Wotton were far from beaten, though. Richards’ pace was called upon several times as Wotton kept two players very high, threatening Stroud on the break. Joe Freer had an excellent game, showing good control at the back and working hard throughout. Zac Knight, whose small stature belies his power, came into midfield keen to make an instant impression. Thompson and Reader worked well together and the latter cracked the ball home for a deserved equaliser. Stroud smelt more goals and earned a short corner. Norman’s accurately slapped feed was smashed into the goal by Richards. The turnaround gave the visitors a 2-1 half time lead.
Encouraged by their lead and buoyed by positive talk at the break, Stroud emerged raring to go again. Paddock was switched from left to right, initially feeling apprehensive. He excelled himself, keeping much-needed width to Stroud’s game. Wotton still threatened, however, scoring an equaliser as they began to work some magic of their own. The visitors were still prepared to pass much more than in previous weeks, surpassing even last week’s marvellous victory over Gloucester. Their confidence showed in all areas of the pitch before Thompson cracked the ball home to take the lead once more. Several saves from Nicol kept Wotton at bay and it really felt as though the next goal would be decisive. After a brief interlude at centre mid, Paddock was united with Robinson on the left flank and they worked nicely with Norman and Tom Freer to make inroads. Sustained pressure was soaked up by Knight, now on at right back and Stroud’s own attacking made for end-to-end action. Some neat passing gave Stroud a few more chances before a clearance from the Wotton keeper went directly to Reader who wasted no time pushing the ball home. That was that, despite a potentially nervous last 3 minutes.
This was a cracking performance from Stroud – a thoroughly deserved win enjoyed by everyone – the after-match doughnuts tasted ever-so much sweeter !
Posted in Junior Hockey | Match Reports | No Comments
18 March 2012 at 10:55
The Stroud side was beaten by the speed of the opposition, any loose balls, missed passes or inaccurate pushes by either side, were swept up by the fleet-footed EG team. The Stroud side was put under sustained pressure for most of the match and as the conditions deteriorated (hailstorm for just under an hour), so players began to make mistakes as their fingers were unable to gain a tight grip on the stick handles and their visibility was impaired. Stroud worked hard throughout the game and the scoreline is not a reflection on their effort. They did attack strongly on several occasions and were rewarded with several short corners, but it was a movement from open play in the dying moments that saw Di Furlong fire a shot across EG’s bows for Carrie Sanders to deflect deftly into the net, for a deserved consolation to go some way to warming up shivering bodies.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
11 March 2012 at 19:30
Ladies 1st team stay top of league
Stroud Ladies’ 1st XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, have won their Division with 3 games to spare, having dispatched Thornbury with a workmanlike, rather than electrifying, display. This being Aleasha Holder's second week as Captain, Stroud were hoping to give her a further boost. In unusually warm conditions, the home side took 20 minutes to get into gear. In spite of this, they managed to keep a spritely Thornbury side at bay, even though the visitors had several breaks into Stroud’s D.
Some great work by the defence and midfielders meant Stroud were able to keep the ball out of their net. As Stroud began to gain momentum, they won some short corners. The overdue first goal was scored by Claire Crosthwaite, following a lovely Lucy Bishop pass from the top of the D.
Crosthwaite nabbed a second goal moments later to give Stroud assurance the win was within their grasp. Debbie Ratcliffe scored a well-taken 3rd goal to give the home side a 3-0 advantage at the break.
Crosthwaite hammered the ball home for her hat trick and, now a comfortable 4-0 to the good, Stroud began to pass the ball around. They pressed strongly up front and created some neat passing triangles, allowing flow and continuity. Stroud’s midfield worked tirelessly throughout the game, keeping to a tight formation. The defence held firm against several threatening Thornbury attacks, thus preventing any goals against.
A beautiful passing move in the last minute of the game finished when Elaine Noone sent a lovely pass across the D for Angharad Roberts to slap the ball neatly into the goal, having drawn the goalkeeper - the last touch of the game.
Watched by injured captain, Karen Willsher, this was another comprehensive victory for Stroud, handing them the Division title with 3 games to spare – a superb achievement, indeed.
Posted in Ladies 1XI | Match Reports | No Comments
11 March 2012 at 11:24
A mix up with umpires led to a delay, a curtailed match, a goal less draw and a single league point. Stroud had been optimistic about winning this match against Colwall but the travelling and long delay before the match started had depleted the team's energy levels. As Stroud re-energised so it took command of the match and played some excellent, fast, flowing hockey. The passing this week was particularly good with balls moved around in straight, square and backwards formations and retaining possession of the ball undoubtedly led to the team's command on the match. Player of the match Candice Johnson in left mid-field for the first time made some important tackles and some good passes through to Sandra Glass and Andrea Preston. Stroud's 3 short corners were not converted with Pauline Edgington hitting the post for a fourth time (3 times whilst warming up) and the team was denied what-would have-been a well deserved goal. The Stroud defence was delighted to keep a clean sheet for a second week.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
04 March 2012 at 09:08
Cirencester are clear leaders in Severn Division 3. Despite the score line Stroud had some fine attacking play and the team’s formation on the pitch and its close marking held firm: Stroud was out run rather than out played. The sustained pressure on the Stroud defence inevitably led to Cirencester scoring despite determined efforts of the Stroud players. Player of the match – defender, Di Furlong.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
29 February 2012 at 18:42
Stroud travelled to league leaders Ross on Wye on a sunny Saturday aware that a win could see them move back to the top of the table but aware that they were missing their strongest lineup. The Stroud starting side looked good with a mix of skilful younger players Rohan Sopp, Rich Cartmell, Zac Lees and Tom Freer in attacking positions. The experience of Steven Ship, Tom Sharpe, Ian Gill, Nick Hitchcroft strong in the midfield. Henry Bonham, Rob Gleed and Matt Watts completed the lineup with Dave Cruickshank in goal.
Ross started strongly with the majority of possession across the middle of the pitch but unable to break the Stroud defence, denied by several outstanding saves from Dave who looked solid between the posts. Ross were unable to find the back of the net even from several short corners. Stroud made a couple of changes before half time and bought on Dom Creech and Derek Pittaway to support the middle of the pitch. Cruickshank was further called into action denying the home side right up to half time.
At the half time talk Stroud reflected on the positives, they were level with the best side in the league and the opposition were visibly rattled losing their cool against unexpected strength and determination of the younger Stroud players. The second half saw both teams come out wanting the first goal with Strouds chances coming from breaks in the play when most of the pressure was at the other end of the pitch. Cruickshank was called into action again and again, but eventually the pressure on the Stroud goal was too great and the home team forced a goal.
Stroud fought on in the setting sunlight with Rohan Sopp and Steve Shipp looking dangerous in the middle, and all parts of the Stroud defence working hard to keep the game open. Zac and Tom upfront looked useful when they had the ball but were somewhat kept out the game by a strong Ross midfield and attacking players. Both sides were noticeably tiring after a long and competitive game in the February sun but knew the next goal would be decisive. A killing blow came when Ross were awarded and scored from a penalty flick when a goal ward ball in a goal mouth scramble found a foot on the line.
Stroud carried on tired but knowing they had put on a good fight. Stroud finished the game with 10 men after Rob Gleed stepped off late in the game with a yellow card. A MOTM performance from Cruickshank in goal keeping the score to a PG rating kept the team feeling they could take something away from the other side of the border.
As always a tight finish to HG1 sees 2nd place Stroud take on 3rd place Newent at home next week as the first stage of a double-header. They are away to Cirencester on Sunday.
It seems an eerily similar story to the last few years when a strong performance in the first half of the season starts to slip away meaning the pressure is really on the last few games of the season. With 5 matches to go, Stroud need to prove they are ready to take themselves to the next level.
Posted in Mens 2XI | Match Reports | No Comments
21 February 2012 at 08:00
In a pretty one-sided affair on Saturday, Stroud roared out of the blocks, going 3 goals up within the first 10 minutes. An incisive attack and pass across the top of the D found Tim Norman, whose reverse stick shot wrong-footed the keeper for goal number one. Norman’s cross a couple of minutes later was beautifully despatched, first time on the reverse into the goal by Rohan Sopp. A Zac Lees tap-in made it 3 before Stroud went quiet for a while when the home side lost 2 players in quick succession, captain Norman struck on the hand by a short corner strike and Derek Pittaway with a muscle pull. As fortune had it, they had a couple of subs able to step into the breach. Norman reappeared for a while before being driven to hospital to tend his wound. Sopp scored 2 more cracking goals to complete a richly-deserved hat trick and Rob Gleed got on the score sheet, too.
With Alan Edwards and Ian Gill solid at the back, Matt Watts was freed up to engage in a spot of attacking on the left. Tom Freer enjoyed more of the ball up the right and Stroud never really looked like conceding a goal. Indeed, this was a comprehensive rather than stunning victory, keeping Stroud firmly in second spot. Their visit to leaders, Ross, next week, looks troublesome, however, particularly having lost their captain, a prominent midfield maestro and another striker last week to a hamstring pull. Tough call indeed, but fingers crossed for lady luck to shine on them.
Posted in Mens 2XI | Match Reports | No Comments
19 February 2012 at 11:47
After 2 weeks of postponed league games this friendly was a welcome opportunity to hone hockey skills in readiness for next week's league games. Fighting at times against torrential rain and in strong winds both teams worked hard to gain the upper hand. In a well-balanced match the ball moved swiftly from end to end with Stroud GK, Aleasha Holder making some important, acrobatic saves to ensure that Stroud maintained a clean sheet. Sarah Tudor's lightening runs stopped the Cirencester attack on many occasions and the ball was moved swiftly back up the pitch. Stroud's winning goal came in the final 5 minutes of the match and it was the result of a fabulous attacking move from Angharad Roberts: she stopped a hit from the Cirencester defender at point blank range, tipped the ball into the D and neatly put the ball past the Cirencester keeper.
Posted in Ladies 1XI | Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
30 January 2012 at 11:18
This was a tremendous match to watch, both sides producing some fine hockey and a draw was probably a fair result. Stroud were under strength, however, without several regular players and losing a key member to illness on Saturday morning. No substitutes either for the home side, but they did work hard to take control of the game early on. Missing last week’s scintillating strikeforce meant Stroud had some difficulty making chances during the first half, eventually falling behind as Lansdown broke swiftly down their right. Henry Bonham, Rob Gleed and Matt Watts did look solid throughout as Stroud’s defensive line, but the home side found it difficult distributing the ball wide enough to really make any telling attacks. They were awarded several short corners but even Gleed’s accurate shooting could not deny the useful Lansdown keeper.
Lansdown went 2-0 up before Stroud altered the line-up slightly. Tim Norman moved up front and everybody to a man works their socks off to battle back into the game. Steve Shipp’s performance again earned him man-of-the-match and Rohan Sopp looked dangerous when running at the defence. With Stroud now snapping at the heels of a tiring Lansdown, Tom Sharpe’s made an incisive run down the right. His raised cross was somehow collected on the reverse by Norman but the shot had little power. It was enough to cause an error from the keeper and Shipp was perfectly positioned to put the rebound in, giving Stroud a lifeline with a few minutes remaining. They refuse to give in and with their tails up attacked again. Norman spun and fed Sopp who fired in a fine pass to Sharpe who made no mistake scoring the equaliser, much to the relief of all and sundry.
Stroud showed immense strength of character to come back from 2-0 down against a very handy Lansdown team, especially given their weakened side and no subs. Although they have lost their top spot, they remain a force with which to be reckoned.
Posted in Mens 2XI | Match Reports | No Comments
28 January 2012 at 18:51
In its first league game since Christmas the Stroud side was pleased to record a win. Stroud had an early goal scored by Sandra Glass from an inch perfect pass from Player of the Match Victoria Sharpe. The lead wasn’t held for long as Painswick managed to pull a goal back and at half time the score was level. Stroud’s keeper Tati Howell was called upon to athletically save a Painswick sure-fired shot on goal and Katherine Stevens prevented a Painswick forward from sneaking a ball past the post in the last 2 minutes of the game. Most of game was controlled by Stroud and the team made much use of the straight and square balls it has practised at training. The game was focused on the centre of the pitch and the team must work at using the entire width in its future matches. Stroud had a number of short corners, but the team’s second goal came from open play when Victoria Sharpe foiled the Painswick keeper. A determined Nic Kelly-Davies found the net but the goal was disallowed.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | 1 Comments »
23 January 2012 at 09:50
Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, travelled to the Leominster beach looking to consolidate their victory last week and signal their intentions for a top-2 finish. The chilly conditions did nothing to curb their enthusiasm and it was not long before they showed their worth. The key difference between the 2 sides was Stroud’s ability and commitment to possession and passing. Dave Cruickshank had little to do in the Stroud goal and a formidable defensive line of Rob Gleed, Henry Bonham and Matt Watts provided the perfect basis for Stroud’s attacking play. Watts, in particular, enjoyed the space on the left and this gave the visitors extra strength in midfield. Young Rohan Sopp earned his man-of-the-match award with a confident and hard-working performance at top diamond, aided by the steadying influence of Derek Pittaway behind him. Ben Orme broke the deadlock with a well-taken goal as Stroud spread the ball from flank to flank. The sandy surface should have favoured the home side, but it was Stroud who continued to pass the ball intelligently. Nick Hitchcroft’d cool head in front of the defence steadied their hand and captain Tim Norman’s tenacity in midfield rattled Leominster. Orme struck again as he and Tom Sharpe showed signs of ripping the home defence to shreds. As half time loomed, Sharpe converted a penalty flick to give Stroud a 3-0 advantage.
A totally rampant Stroud ran the game in the second half. Youngster, Tom Freer had another solid game at right mid, well-supported by his older teammates. Norman got on the scoresheet, latching onto an inch perfect through ball from Sopp before nutmegging the keeper. Orme and Sharpe then went on the rampage. In truth, the entire team played brilliantly and set up the forward line who did not disappoint. Orme put a lovely reverse flick over the keeper and Sopp provided the perfect pass for Sharpe to convert. Stroud’s control of the midfield through Sopp, Norman, Pittaway and the advancing Watts and Gleed, became a formality Leominster were reduced to the long ball, snuffed out early on many occasions. Norman’s run from left mid opened the defence and Sharpe was perfectly positioned on the left post to deflect another goal. Gleed, bolstered by his stint in the 1st XI, enjoyed his return. Two superb team goals, involving six or seven passes rounded off a formidable performance, keeping Stroud top. Superb finishing from Sharpe and Orme, plus a tremendous performance from the whole team – everybody had a good game – produced a result of which Stroud should be proud.
Posted in Mens 2XI | Match Reports | No Comments
22 January 2012 at 17:53
Stroud Men's 1st XI made the long away trip to play Swansea University on Saturday, hoping to complete a double over the student side having beaten them 4-2 at home earlier in the season.
As expected, the game started at a high pace with Swansea dominating the early exchanges. Stroud worked hard but found it hard to get the ball and Swansea put together some ominous attempts on goal. The students made the most of their early domination and scored twice. The Stroud defence struggled to get to grips with the pace and movement of the Swansea front line.
Stroud responded very positively to the two goal deficit and set about finding a way back into the game. Man of the match Matt Williams set the tone with a higher press from the midfield and the whole side responded by upping their work rate and retaining possession. As Stroud started to put the students under more pressure it became evident that they were vulnerable at the back. Rich Fynn made some probing runs from midfield and he won a penalty flick when fouled on rounding the keeper. Fynn duly dispatched the flick signalling the start of a fight back.
Stroud found more confidence and began to look like the better of the two sides as they worked the ball around well and stretched the Swansea defence. Calum Norman won a short corner with a good bit of skill and Rob Fynn scored with a clean and clinical strike. Stroud went close to taking the lead on the stroke of half time as another short corner chance went close.
Stroud were buoyant at half time, full of belief that the could go on to take all the points.
The second half started well enough with Stroud defending well. Keeper Cathie was called upon to make some good saves but Stroud also showed purpose going forward. With 20 minutes remaining and the score at 2-2 the game was in the balance.
As is often the way in hockey the balance tipped decisively in a few crucial minutes of play.
Stroud worked a brilliant opportunity to take the lead when Liam Tunney, Matt Pearce and Rich Fynn combined down the left, swiftly turning defence into attack. Calum Norman was on hand to finish off the move with a superb diving reverse stick strike, beating the on rushing keeper. Unfortunately for Stroud, he didn't beat the post and the ball cannoned back out to a grateful Swansea defender. Swansea quickly shifted the ball back down the other end and inevitably scored. Keeper Cathie was left stranded by an unfortunate deflection off defender Rob Fynn's foot.
The goal lifted Swansea and they scored a fourth just minutes later. A one in a million chance converted with a diving, one handed, reverse stick strike from the byline. Some days you get the feeling that you just weren't meant to win!
Having worked so hard to get back into the game only to be undone by two chance goals was a tough one to swallow and it took its toll on Stroud's work rate and physical efforts in the closing stages.
Stroud looked for a way back into the game but were hit on the break twice more in the last 10 minutes. Swansea closed out the game with two well worked goals.
In truth, Stroud came up short despite their fighting spirit and once again only really performed for half a game. They will look to get back on track next week with a home fixture against Newent
Posted in Mens 1XI | Match Reports | No Comments
21 January 2012 at 19:06
Having played Bristol away and drawn the match the home side believed that there was the opportunity to do slightly better this time and from the first whistle was keen to take command of the match. It was Bristol that scored the first goal, but that was quickly followed by the equaliser from Kathy Williams, scoring from a well rehearsed short corner routine. Stroud then struggled to contain the Bristol attack, and possibly due to the strong wind the team was considerably out of sorts, scoring 2 own goals and giving away a penalty. Hannah Scott, playing in goal for the first time, was a stalwart keeper and prevented Bristol from scoring on many occasions. Katherine Stevens was tireless in defence and Kathy Williams & Carrie Sanders determined in mid field. To have the season’s worth of errors, mistakes and mis-hits in a single match means there is the opportunity for the Stroud team to put today’s match behind firmly it, unite as a single, determined, well oiled hockey machine and ‘return to form’ in time for next week’s league match.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
16 January 2012 at 17:41
Ecotricity sponsored Stroud Men's 1st XI played out their second 1-1 draw of the season with Bristol & West on Saturday at Stratford Park in a game that ebbed and flowed but which neither side truly dominated.
Bristol started brightly with a period of early possession but were not able to do anything with it as they found the Stroud defensive unit hard to break down. Stroud were patient and showed a few early signs of looking dangerous on the break - Mat Pearce went close with a great effort from the top of the D.
Skipper Alex Waring broke the deadlock mid way through the half. Rich Fynn did all the hard work, collecting a loose pass in just outside the 25 before driving towards the byline. Waring was on hand to deflect his rising cross into the back of the goal.
Fynn and Waring almost made it 2 minutes later with a similar move but this time just lacked the killer touch.
Bristol then had a decent spell where they put together a few short corners and the Stroud defence will count themsleves unlucky to have conceeded when Bristol squeezed their 3rd over the line. 1-1 at half time.
The second half saw more of the same, both sides creating decent chances but neither finding a way through. Danny Clifford came closest to winning the 3 points for Stroud. Mat Pearce played a defence splitting pass and Clifford's first time deflected effort flew agonisingly over the cross bar.
The drama was saved for the final minute though. Stroud pressed hard for the win and won a succession of short corners. Again Clifford thought he had won the game, this time dribbling the ball neatly before despatching the ball into the back of the net only for the whistle to blow for.... another short corner. Stroud couldn't believe their bad luck and Bristol & West were relieved to clear the final corner and walk off with a hard fought point.
Posted in Mens 1XI | Match Reports | No Comments
16 January 2012 at 09:25
A glorious sunny winter afternoon was the back-drop to a promising start to 2012 by Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity. A fairly meagre scoreline belied the dominance Stroud showed throughout the game. Defensively, nobody recollects a shot on goal from the visiting team, the only “save” from keeper Kev Sinden a clearance with his stick from outside the D. Henry Bonham was rock solid in the heart of defence, as was Alan Edwards playing just in front of him. Matt Watts and Dom Creech busied themselves at left and right back, providing more of an attacking presence at times. Good work-rate from the midfield kept potential Cheltenham threats at bay and more sensible possession-keeping passes gave the home side confidence. It did not take long for Stroud to threaten the visitors’ goal, Ben Orme and Zac Lees keen to get on the scoresheet. The pressure gave Stroud a short corner from which the initial save was converted with a neat flick by Lees. This was just the start required to calm the nerves and relax the team. More hounding of Cheltenham’s midfield, gave Stroud more breaks, although they were forced back on their heels several times. A strong work ethic snuffed out the threats. Another short corner gave Orme his goal, a clean strike with a resounding thud on the back board. Tim Norman’s tenacity almost led to another, but stick upon stick seemed to materialise out of nowhere. Rohan Sopp was dangerous in the 25 and he was unlucky not to convert a chance near the left post. Stroud continued to apply pressure without extending their lead, some good crosses narrowly failing to find a Stroud stick. The dominance Stroud had could not be turned into more goals, however – chances were created, but the Cheltenham keeper managed to find a way of keeping the ball out. 14 year-old Tom Freer, making his debut for the 2nd XI, grew in confidence and played his part admirably. With good support from his teammates, he slotted into midfield nicely as Stroud’s interplay improved. Nick Hitchcroft’s control of the midfield and Derek Pittaway’s presence at back diamond gave a nice pivot point during the second half. Edwards showed no signs of slacking and Tom Sharpe was as versatile as ever. Despite the fact that they scored no more goals, Stroud ran out comfortable winners, but will be looking for more offensive success next week when they travel to Leominster as division leaders again, albeit by 2 points and having played one more game.
Posted in Mens 2XI | Match Reports | No Comments
14 January 2012 at 18:49
Stroud lost heavily to the Gloucester side in the friendly before Christmas and the team was pleased with its performance against the Gloucester side – which plays in the league above. This was the first time this season that the club’s new pitch was hit by overnight frost and it performed extremely well. Although frozen it was not slippery on the top and the ball did not bounce in the alarming fashion that it did on the old pitch when it was frozen. Despite that both sides made a tentative start playing on a completely white pitch for the first half of the game.
Stroud had the first attack but it was then Gloucester that applied the pressure and despite the efforts of ‘Player of the Match’ Jordan Turnbull the Stroud team conceded two goals in the first half. The second half saw the Stroud team playing a more attacking game with the forwards pulling the game wide to allow the front & back diamond players the space to run through and support the attack. Gloucester found the goal a third time.
Stroud had a number of fine attacking moves but the final strike into the goal eluded the team’s usually ‘goal mad’ forwards.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
08 January 2012 at 09:43
Thornbury was quick of the mark and scored within 20 minutes. Stroud took time to settle as the team needed to adjust to new players joining the squad including a welcome appearance by Jordan Turnbull in goal. Thornbury had much of the attack, particularly during the second half when defenders Becky and Katherine Stevens were called into action time and time again. The Stroud goal was a fair result for the team; a direct replica of the practises carried out at training earlier in the week, Pauline Edgington passed the ball through the Thornbury players for Hannah Scott to pick up on the move and fire into the Thornbury goal. There were several other near misses for both teams and it was defenders Jordan Turnbull and Katherine Stevens who were jointly awarded the Stroud team’s ‘player of the match’ award.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
18 December 2011 at 12:43
Stroud fielded an equal mixture of first and second team players in this Christmas friendly against Wotton Bassett and the match was played in the spirit intended. Stroud was clearly the dominate side and went swiftly into the lead with a goal from Claire Crosthwaite. The sustained pressure by the Stroud team allowed Kate Davies to push Stroud even further ahead. Wotton Bassett found space to break the Stroud defences shortly after half time and pulled back a goal just after half time. Claire Crosthwaite found the goal for a second time and Kathy Williams secured the win with Stroud’s fourth goal.
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12 December 2011 at 09:32
Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, were decidedly ordinary on Saturday, a solitary Tim Norman strike half way up the side netting almost the only thing about which to smile. This came in the second half, all of Stroud’s first half pressure having come to nought. The opposition described their defensive efforts in terms of Rourke’s Drift, Stroud failing to play enough of a passing game to prise apart the Cirencester defence. To be fair to the visitors, they stuck to their task and held firm, but their young forwards were given too much leeway in the second half and Stroud paid the price fr not taking chances. Tom Sharpe and Derek Pittaway came agonisingly close to pulling off a win, but that did not happen and, worse still, goalkeeper Dave Cruickshank suffered a dislocated shoulder which will keep him out for several weeks. This was certainly an inauspicious end to the first half of the League season, despite Stroud remaining first or second in the table. The club deserve better; the fans deserves better and, by jove, the team WILL get better for the New Year !
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11 December 2011 at 19:18
Stroud Men's 1st XI signed off for the Christmas break with a win and clean sheet on Saturday.
Recently promoted Chippenham were the visitors to Stratford Park. The game was closely fought throughout and Danny Clifford's 1st half goal proved enough to secure the 3 points for Stroud.
Both sides tried to play good passing hockey, but Stroud slightly edged the first half in terms of chances created. It was from their first short corner that Clifford struck, collecting the rebound from the keeper’s first save before creating space with a mazy dribble and flicking the ball goalward.
Chippenham raised their game in the second half and put Stroud under more pressure, creating a number of chances but failing to find that finishing touch. On the one occasion they did find the net, the goal was disallowed. Stroud held firm, keeper Cathie pulling off several crucial saves and man of the match Nick Batten making some crucial tackles as well as relieving pressure with some marauding runs further up the pitch.
Stroud created more chances of their own but couldn't find their way around the Chippenham keeper who saved numerous attempts on goal.
The game finished 1-0 to Stroud.
This was a solid first half of the season with more games won than lost, but plenty to work on and improve for the New Year.
Posted in Mens 1XI | Match Reports | No Comments
05 December 2011 at 09:47
Ecotricity-sponsored Stroud Men's 1st XI enjoyed themselves on Saturday, away to local rivals Cirencester. Stroud took the league's bottom-placed team to pieces in a comprehensive 7-2 demolition.
Stroud were looking to find some form having lost their previous three league games but made the worst possible start, Cirencester taking the lead after 2 minutes. Stroud quickly regrouped and responded immediately by winning a short corner. Rob Gleed stepped up to the mark and duly dispatched a clean strike to level the score.
Stroud never looked back and dominated the rest of the half. Rich Fynn dispatched 2 penalty flicks after goal-bound efforts were illegally halted by Cirencester defenders. Danny Clifford brought new found vigour to the right side of midfield and scored a great goal after a marauding run into the D. Skipper Alex Waring got in on the act too, squeezing a deflected short corner effort home. Stroud finished the half 5-1 to the good.
The second half saw more of the same. Rich Fynn secured his second hat trick in successive weeks when he arrived at the back post to finish the move of the game; Liam Tunney won the ball for Stroud in the left back position and found Waring who beat his marker before finding Matt Pearce in an advanced position. Pearce played a first time ball to Rich Fynn who played a brilliant cross field ball to Danny Clifford wide on the right. Clifford played his cross powerfully toward the back post where Waring and Fynn were queuing up to score. Fynn applied the crucial finishing touch.
Cirencester managed to get a consolation goal after a deliberate foul in the D led to the 3rd penalty flick of the game. The game was Stroud's, however, and Danny Clifford capped his man-of-the-match performance with a great individual finish, squeezing an unstoppable shot between the keeper and the post to round things off.
Creditable mentions must go to Rob Gleed in defence - he continues to develop in his new 1st team role; 16-year old Calum Norman who had an excellent game and to keeper Sam Cathie whose very vocal performance kept his side, not to mention the opposition, on their toes.
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05 December 2011 at 09:46
Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, made heavy weather beating Gloucester C on Saturday. Their team was, at least on paper, pretty strong, but they struggled to click into gear, over-complicating their play at times. When they played the simple stuff, they looked good and the first half pressure could, indeed should, have led to several goals by the interval. Ben Orme made the breakthrough eventually, nipping in front of the defenders as usual. Indeed he should have put away another chance from a Tim Norman pass, but Stroud failed to extend their lead despite Tom Sharpe and Steve Shipp also coming close. A disappointing half and a solitary goal was not enough for Stroud to feel safe and they were left with plenty to do in the second period. An early goal from Zac Lees settled them and Shipp made it 3-0 a few minutes later. The buffer was almost there. Once again, however, they failed to exploit their superior pace and passing ability. What should have turned into a rout proved unpleasantly harrowing. With so much space to play with, Stroud often chose the narrow through-the-middle route. Henry Bonham, Matt Watts and Rob Waite found themselves under more pressure than they thought possible before Gloucester pulled back an unlikely goal. Stroud hung on to their 3-1 lead and the positive slant on a distinctly under-par performance, was that they can play relatively badly and still win. They play Cirencester B this Saturday in the last League fixture before the Christmas break – a 2pm start at home. Fingers crossed for a more positive and intelligent performance.
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04 December 2011 at 11:33
Bourton on the water was in trouble from the whistle as Stroud started the match in style with a goal from Carrie Sanders whose shot was a ‘text book’, perfect deflection in to the goal. In a fast and furious paced game, Stroud’s Nic Kelly-Davies found space to squeeze Stroud’s second goal past the Bourton keeper to allow the team to go into the second half with a two goal advantage. There was some excellent passing and movement of the ball between mid-fielders Kathy Williams, Katy Stotesbury, Victoria Sharpe and Sandra Glass from whom a strong ball into the opponents D allowed Carrie Sanders to score her second goal of the match.
Bourton was relentless in its attempt to get a goal keeper Tati Howell was called upon to make some crucial saves, whilst Andrea Preston was called into action to stop a ball on the goal line. Another fine performance from the team which has now moved into 3rd place in the league table. League games recommence in the New Year. Player of the match – Sandra Glass.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
28 November 2011 at 10:46
Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, took the spoils in a bruising affair on Saturday. Goalkeeper, Dave Cruickshank, was never really put under pressure but Stroud’s early dominance did not produce a goal for a while. Zac Lees impressive strike gave them the lead and some pleasant use of the flanks stretched the visitors’ defence. The fine work ethic eventually sapped the energy of Lydney. Steve Shipp and Fin Dixon did a good job in midfield, as did Ben Orme, but the second half saw Nick Batten come to prominence, his fine support from right back and solid tackling earning him the man-of-the-match award. A superb strike by Rich Cartmell eased the tension in the second half before Nick Hitchcroft did his utmost to score his first ever hat trick, scoring twice with fine strikes in quick succession. This was a solid performance from a 2nd XI with yet another line-up, showing their strength in depth and ability to win regardless of team structure. Last week’s unfortunate slip against Newent A was dispelled with this win which keeps them top and with an improved goal difference. They play Gloucester City C next week, in a match they must win to keep up their title aspirations.
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20 November 2011 at 10:18
The Stroud defence excelled this week against sustained pressure, particularly in the last 15 minutes of the match. It was no surprise when keeper Helen Summers was awarded the ‘player of the match’ award for her determined, successful and important saves. Stroud made an excellent start to the match with goals from Nic Kelly-Davies and Kathy Williams securing the team a 2 goal lead going into half time. The Colwall forwards were fast and skilful, and all the members of the defensive team – Andrea Preston, Catherine Stevens, Letty Adams and Lesley Macdonald were called into action to prevent Colwall from scoring. When Stroud did take command of the game its attacking formations were strong and the team was unlucky that strikes on goal from short corners were saved by the Colwall defence. A good performance from the Stroud team, which this week had no substitutes, and one which allowed it to retain 4th place in the league.
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15 November 2011 at 13:37
After the exuberance of their 12-0 victory last week, Stroud knew full well they were in for a far tougher experience on Saturday. Ross were lying 2nd and had an even better goal difference than Stroud. It was clear from the opening salvos that the visitors meant business. Both sides passed the ball around with good pace and gave little away. Good movement from Tom Sharpe, given a forward’s role, opened the game up for Stroud. Steve Shipp and Calum Norman, playing the pivotal roles in centre midfield, had little time on the ball compared to previous weeks. This did not lead to stalemate, however, both sides launching attacks. Matt Watts and Henry Bonham really stepped up to the plate. Watts was quick to spot potential danger and Bonham was solid and controlled as ever. A deliberate trip went unspotted and a petulant reaction left Stroud a man down for 10 minutes. As the home side recouped, Ross piled forward and took the lead after a well-executed move. Stroud were not out, just temporarily wounded. A positive reaction ensued and they passed the ball around with more purpose. Acting captain Shipp applied the pressure and drove into the D. His shot was heading into the far corner but Sharpe made sure with a touch that ensured the keeper had no chance. Stroud returned to full strength before half time but the score remained 1-1 at the break.
Rich Gealer came on to assist the defence, he and Rob Waite soon under pressure as Ross looked to regain the lead. Gealer tracked brilliantly and did enough to halt the assault. Rob Gleed opened up the right, Craig Wathen and Zac Lees now occupying the forward positions and working hard to offer an outlet. Good control from Shipp and Norman gave Stroud several short corners but Gleed was not able to convert them. As Stroud pressed forward they were hit on the counter and Ross appeared to have broken home hearts with a goal 10 minutes before the end. Derek Pittaway came on for Stroud’s keeper – losing 3-1 or 2-1 was no different, so applying more pressure made sense. Ross went down to 10 men and Stroud desperately pushed forward. Great work earned them a short corner with few minutes remaining. As the ball broke to the left, Norman struck a fearsome reverse stick shot which was deflected off a knee when goalbound. Sharpe stepped up to the plate and drama began in earnest as he scuffed his penalty flick. As Ross celebrated, the umpires ordered a retake as the keeper had made the basic schoolboy error of standing in front of the goal line ! Sharpe then roofed his second attempt to equalise in emphatic fashion. Only a couple of minutes remained and Dave Cruickshank came back on in goal to close the hatches. This was a tough test for Stroud but they came through relatively unscathed and are now 3 points clear of Cirencester A with Ross a further point adrift.
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15 November 2011 at 13:35
In a close fought encounter, Stroud’s U16 boys got the better of Cheltenham with goals from Andrew Reader and Jamie Penmore, the latter with a fine solo effort in the second half. The whole team produced a fine performance, but notable contributions were made by Hamish Norman, Gabriel Robinson and goalkeeper Bryn Nicol.
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14 November 2011 at 08:36
Stroud Men's 1st XI travelled away to Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Saturday to play Whitchurch B, full of optimism following last week’s excellent performance.
Unfortunately, most of that optimism washed away within the first 10 minutes of the match as Stroud found themselves 3-0 before they had blinked. Stroud were guilty of not being switched on and a strong, well-organised Whitchurch side duly took advantage.
Stroud steadily regained some composure and began to find their feet. They tested the Whitchurch keeper on a few occasions and won a couple of short corners. The umpire denied Whitchurch a fourth goal and Stroud counted themselves lucky to go in at half time only 3-0 down.
The second half saw a better Stroud performance but, in truth, Whitchurch had already done the damage. With nothing to chase they soaked up pressure and passed the ball well. Stroud dominated the possession and if they had made a few of their early short corners count, may well have got back into the game. Fin Dixon deflected in a Rob Fynn short corner strike with about 20 minutes to play and for a short while the Stroud players sensed a comeback. That was until Whitchurch put the game beyond doubt with a well-taken breakaway goal.
The match finished 4-1.
An honest appraisal would be that Stroud were some way off the pace in this match - playing good hockey for half a game isn't good enough and Stroud will need to find more consistency and resolve if they are to harbour ambitions of a high table finish.
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13 November 2011 at 21:59
After a good win for the ladies they hoped to keep the impressive work up against Avonmouth.
A solid start meant that despite Avonmouth attacking the D they where unable to get past Strouds solid defence of Aleasha Holder, Becky Stevens, Sarah Tudor and Angharad Roberts.
With Stroud gaining possession they passed the ball around and used some of the skills that have been practiced in training.
Several attacks on Avonmouth’s goal led to short corners but the ladies where unable to get a shot on goal. With the midfields and forwards keeping the ball, Avonmouth's frustration started to show and Claire Crosthwaite was able to score the first goal.
Debbie Ratcliffe, Julie Whiting and Kate Davies had several more attempts before Julie was able to score the second goal of the match.
After this the important thing was to keep hold of the ball and prevent Avonmouth from getting hold of it. Some brilliant work in the middle of the pitch by Karen Whitehead, Karen Willsher, Elaine Noone and Hattie White allowed Stroud to maintain possession and keep cool until the final whistle.
With a final score of 2-0 the Stroud Ladies 1XI are currently top of their division.
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07 November 2011 at 09:09
It was Top v Bottom on Saturday – always a potential problem. Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, refused to bow to the tempter that is complacency, however, a stern warning before the game enough to settle them. Steve Shipp and Calum Norman took early control of the midfield as they had done the previous week. They were untroubled and were soon proving fine pivots. Composed passing and good support were key factors and that included the defensive line of Rob Gleed, returning Henry Bonham and Matt Watts. Pushing forward to help the attack was no problem for them and at no time were they put in danger. Nick Hitchcroft provided the bridge between them and the midfield. The first goal was passing personified – probably 6 in total, worked down the right. Calum Norman threaded the ball through to Zac Lees on the back line and he drove along it before giving the perfect pass on the penalty spot for Tim Norman to fire the ball in off the far post. If they weren’t relaxed beforehand, they were following that first goal. Ben Orme switched up front and immediately found the net, having snatched the ball back from a dithering defender. Rob Gleed’s sweetly struck short corner, aimed outside the right post, was deflected in neatly by Calum Norman. Orme collected a second before Tim Norman’s goal-bound flick was blocked by a defender’s body. The resultant penalty flick was taken By Tom Sharpe who saw the ball hit the bar and cruelly bounce the wrong side of the line. Lees’ goal was as simple as they come following another superb passing move which left the opposition without a hope. Sharpe’s efforts at left midfield were nearly rewarded but the home side’s crossbar came to the rescue once more. Steve Shipp popped up with a goal before Gleed converted a short corner clinically for a 7-0 half time lead.
Nobody was clear what the score was at half time, to be perfectly honest. It mattered not – Stroud cam out firing in the second half, looking to continue their passing game. This they did to great effect. Dave Cruickshank was called upon to make one save and that was from a shot going wide. That’s statistic alone showed the superiority Stroud exuded. They held their shape well and happily moved the ball back to keep possession and switched flanks. Calum Norman finished off a flowing move down the left, before completing his hat trick with a fine individual run and sweet reverse stick strike which left the keeper stranded. When on form, Gleed’s short corner striking is a joy to behold – he got his second of the game with a perfectly-struck shot. Tim Norman poached his second after a shot was saved. As the Cleevillians side tired, Stroud exploited the space even more. Hitchcroft found Lees whose great running wide right beat the defence. His inch-perfect bullet of a cross was expertly converted by Rohan Sopp to complete the rout.
Stroud thus managed to stave off a potential slip-up against the bottom-placed side and did so in style. Lovely passing hockey was the name of the game, but everyone worked hard, too – a good pointer towards next week’s home game against erstwhile leaders, Ross. Stroud really need to keep the pressure on and continue playing the superb team hockey exuded on Saturday.
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06 November 2011 at 21:38
Stroud Ladies 1st 5 Redland 3 0
A great game this week for the Ladies 1st XI with a lot of the posession played in Redlands half.
After a very good training session on Tuesday the Ladies felt confident that game play was getting better and proved it with a much improved passing and possesion based game.
Both Stroud and Redlands had opportunities at goal in the first half, however some solid defending from both sides meant that by half time the score was still 0-0.
The second half told a different story, not long into it and Stroud had a break in which Claire Crosthwaite was able to score the first goal of the game.
After this the Ladies seemed to find a new level of confidence and composure and pretty soon the forward line was pressing forward once again towards Redland's quarter. With another great goal from Claire, 2-0, which was shortly followed by Debbie Ratcliffe's to put the Ladies up to 3-0.
Redland pushed back, however it was not long before Stroud gained posession and were able to apply the pressure and drive it up into the D for Angharad Roberts to ensure the fourth goal definitely went in.
Some brilliant work by Karen Whitehead, Karen Wilsher, Elaine Noone and Hattie White in the midfield meant that Stroud held onto the ball, working it around the pitch and using the width effectively.
Some lovely passing up the pitch led to Debbie's 2nd goal and Stroud's 5th and final goal of the game, whilst Julie Whiting kept the pressure applied to Redland in their defensive quarter.
A last few attempts at attacking the goal from Redland ended unfortunately for them as Stroud's defensive back line of Sarah Mace, Sarah Tudor, Becky Stevens and GK Aleasha Holder held strong and let nothing through.
This boost in game play meant that the Ladies kept control throughout the entire game and never lost their cool, many feeling they had played the best hockey so far this season.
A great aspect was that despite being several goals down Redland kept fighting until the end.
A win has placed them 2nd in the League, and the Ladies hope that they can continue to go from strength to strength.
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06 November 2011 at 14:41
Stroud Hockey Club is sponsored by local renewable energy specialist Ecotricity. Stroud Men's 1stXI produced a blistering 10 minutes of hockey on Saturday that can only be described as 'electric'!
The first half against visitors Bridgend was a niggly, scrappy affair with both sides showing ill discipline and the umpires were forced to intervine with a number of green and yellow cards. Stroud finished the half 1-0 up. The goal coming after some tenacious closing down by forwards Waring and Clifford; Waring winning the ball back off the Bridgend centre half for Clifford who then returned the ball to him to score at the back post. Keeper Sam Cathie contributed to the half time lead by brilliantly saving a penalty flick low to his right.
The second half started well for Stroud with a solid period of possession and a few probing attacks. It was after a brief delay due to an injury to the Bridgend keeper that Stroud flicked the switch and turned on an inspired performance.
Danny Clifford won a short corner with some good skills in the D. Rob Fynn's low flicked effort was initially saved by the keeper but skipper Waring was on hand to score his second neatly tucking the ball away as it fell from keepers pads. Cue Stroud goal mayhem!
Stroud then proceeded to rip Bridgend apart in a blistering 10 minute spell.
Firstly Waring collected his hat-trick, crashing a loose ball into the net as it looped up over the keeper. 3-0.
Then midfielder Mears got on the score sheet with the very next attack. A lovely passing move down the right hand side that scythed through the Bridgend defence, Mears was on hand to slot the ball home from the top of the D. 4-0.
Rich Fynn got in on the act, finishing off another great passing move. 5-0.
Stroud's final goal was from a well worked short corner, Matt Pearce arriving perfectly to calmly deflect the ball home. 6-0.
Bridgend didn't know what had hit them, the fight was gone from their game and Stroud played out the final 20 minutes in control. Safe in the knowledge that they had put the match well beyond the opposition with that brilliant spell of hockey.
Credit must go to the defence for their second clean sheet in a row but in truth this was the sort of result you get from great alround team performance.
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06 November 2011 at 11:13
Stroud’s coach, Richard McColl, was on hand to provide strategic coaching and recommend tactical changes during this week’s 2nd X1 match. With the new pitch at the LC the Stroud team always has a home advantage as the surface causes the ball to ‘bobble’ rather than run completely flat and it takes new users of the pitch 10 or 15 minutes to adjust. Normally Stroud makes good use of the time to buffer itself with a goal, but this time it was Blockley that scored the first goal. Undeterred and even more determined the Stroud team began to settle into its normal rhythm, allowing Pauline Edgington to ‘zing the ball into the top corner’ of the net. Stroud’s top scorer, Nic Kelly-Davies then pushed home a ball on the rebound and the team went into half time with a 2-1 lead. During the second half Stroud’s defence was called upon to dispense with a number of Blockley attacks, and Andrea Preston saved a goal on the line while Di Furlong & Katy Stotesbury made some important clearances. The second half saw further goals from Stroud, with Hannah Scott’s powerful strike finding the goal and Victoria Sharpe making her trademark solo run and pushing the ball past the Blockely keeper. Another good result for Stroud who will be training hard on Tuesday in preparation of meeting the team currently above it in the league. Player of the match Kathy Williams.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
31 October 2011 at 09:09
Bourton and Sherborne 0 Stroud A 4
Goalscorers: Zac Lees (2), Tom Sharpe, Ben Orme
This was another inspired performance from Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity. Having the dubious luxury of 14 players, captain Tim Norman elected to run the substitutions for the first half. It proved a tremendous spectacle, Stroud coming out of the blocks in determined fashion. It took a mere 3½ minutes for them to take the lead through a neat passing move, finished off by Tom Sharpe who thus claimed his first League goal for Stroud. 16 year old Calum Norman, rested by the 1st XI, was a welcome addition to the midfield and he formed a good working relationship with Steve Shipp. Pivoting off each other, they fed the lively Sharpe and another 16 year old, Fin Dixon down the flanks. Spotting Sherborne’s defensive weaknesses, Stroud capitalised by passing the ball wide. Zac Lees, who earned himself the man-of-the-match award, and Ben Orme ran the defence ragged. Several superb balls from Shipp and Calum Norman to the back line almost resulted in goals as Orme and Lees peeled away from the goalmouth. On the end of a stunning passing move down the right wing, Orme got his reward after 10 minutes to give Stroud a 2 goal advantage before 15 year old Rohan Sopp and Craig Wathen came on up front to continue the barrage. Their more intricate stick skills gave a different slant on the game and Sherborne found it difficult to adjust. Sopp had a couple of great strikes, one on the reverse, but the keeper stood firm to deny him. Despite the pressure, the home side did break out on occasions, but Dave Cruickshank was imperious in Stroud’s goal. He did a fine job ushering the defenders. To be fair, Stroud’s defenders needed little advice. Nick Hitchcroft, given a more unusual task of centre back, worked nicely with the ever-active Alan Edwards. That backbone was a perfect foil to a strong midfield. With the whole team giving 100% effort, control belonged to Stroud. Half time came with Stroud 2-0 up, although it should have been more.
The break did nothing to dampen Stroud’s resolve. As the midfield was working well, substitutions tended to be with the forwards, all of them keeping the tempo high. Rob Gleed’s incisive passing from his right wing-back position gave Stroud a good springboard. Whenever they looked ragged, Stroud recouped and made their possession and fitness tell. As the game progressed, Edwards was able to push forward to support the midfield, sound in the knowledge that Hitchcroft and Matt Watts were covering his every move. Tim Norman came on for a spell at left midfield. It was obvious that a lot of space was made, but not always used. When it was, the results were devastating. Calum Norman and Shipp had time to pick their passes. The forwards’ movement opened up the middle for the midfield to work. Great work from Sopp earned Stroud a short corner from which Gleed was unlucky not to score. Tim Norman worked well with Sharpe but still the goals did not materialise. Perhaps Stroud could be guilty of over-complication near the D and also passing a little late at times – at any rate, their total control of the game was not being reflected in the goal tally. It was left to Lees to correct that, his goal-scoring touch returning as he grabbed a quick brace to put the result beyond doubt.
This was an impressive display by Stroud, again one in which a double-figure tally was not out of the question. Lots of positives can be taken – the 3 youngsters looked solid and hard-working. Calum Norman looked much more composed alongside Shipp in the midfield, his pace putting Sherborne under a lot of pressure. Dixon did a fine job, deputising towards the end for Edwards in front of defence. Sopp used his lovely stick skills to fine effect. Sharpe was tenacious and assured in midfield. Shape-wise, Stroud looked strong. Only on rare occasions was there a gap between defence and midfield, Gleed, Watts and Hitchcroft keeping well up with the game to support the team. With Orme, Lees and Wathen all dangerous up front and Cruickshank keeping his first clean sheet of the season, this was a fine win. The icing on the cake was previous leaders Ross losing, thus leaving Stroud top of the division.
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31 October 2011 at 09:07
Stroud travelled to Weston Super Mare on Saturday looking to re-group after last week's second half collapse against Yate.
Stroud started the game well, putting together some fluid moves and pressing Weston back into their own half. Dan Clifford and Matt Williams won early short corners that tested the Weston keeper. Despite not getting an early goal, Stroud remained patient and continued to pass the ball well to keep prolonged possession.
Dan Clifford eventually unpicked the lock as a good passing move resulted in his low drag shot finding the back board. Stroud finished the first half deservedly in front.
The second half saw a very compact Stroud unit working hard to keep Weston at bay. Stroud played some good solid hockey and despite not scoring again they were always in command of the game and were rarely troubled at the back by Weston. The Weston keeper was called into action by Rich Fynn on several occasions and Alex Waring should have scored when Brad Mears put him through one-on-one with the keeper.
Despite their chances, the game finished 1-0 to Stroud.
Stroud were delighted with all the points away against a tricky Weston side, although they would have liked to make their superior possession count in terms of more goals.
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24 October 2011 at 15:25
Stroud 1st 3 Jaspers 2nd 1
In a far better performance than in the previous week, Stroud Ladies 1sts were able to secure themselves a win against Jaspers.
With a lot of the game spent on the attack it was promising to see the first goal from Claire Crosthwaite find the backboard. However one goal was not enough for the Ladies and so Stroud went on the attack again allowing Angharad Roberts to take a hit from the top of the D which went straight into the goal.
Jaspers fought back and were able to get a goal past Aleash Holder but Stroud were not going to let them creep back into the game. and a lovely goal from Debbie Ratcliffe meant that Stroud won. With better passing and positioning the ladies put a lot of effort into this game and deserved a good win.
Man of the Match is Debbie Ratcliffe.
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23 October 2011 at 06:24
Stroud Ladies’ 2nd team was back on form as it put 2 goals into the net in its away match against Lansdown. The team got off to a shaky start and the defensive players fought hard to keep a clean sheet. Katherine Stevens made some important tackles and Helen Summers some excellent saves, ensuring the half time score remained 0-0. After the break, Stroud’s midfield and forward line then began to increase the pressure on Lansdown, taking control of the match. Stroud’s first goal was deftly picked up from a rebound off the Lansdown goalkeeper and put into the net by Karen Whitehead. The team’s second goal was the result of an impressive solo run by player-of-the-match Victoria Sharpe.
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17 October 2011 at 09:39
Lansdown A 1 Stroud A 3
Goalscorers: Tim Norman (2), Steve Shipp
Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, proved the superior side on Saturday, producing a fine, controlled performance against a potentially awkward Lansdown team. With only 2 recognised defenders, Stroud lined up in attacking mode and soon got into their stride. A Rob Gleed short corner strike appeared to ricochet in a haphazard fashion before reaching Tim Norman who turned the ball in from short range. As Matt Pearce and Nick Hitchcroft took control of the midfield, Lansdown surprisingly equalised but Stroud were undeterred. Man-of-the-match Scott Patient looked assured in the heart of Stroud’s defence and the general movement of the ball and the team’s shape were good. Steve Shipp earned 9.9s with his diving shot from Pearce’s fine through-ball – a super goal to put the visitors in front. Several further chances went begging, Zac Lees narrowly missing the crossbar and Tom Sharpe going close. It was Ben Orme’s great work down the left which led to his pass across goal for Norman’s second. Lansdown would not lie down, Dave Cruickshank making several fine saves, but, in truth, the threats were few and far between. Tired legs meant Norman coming on at left-back, unusual for a centre-forward, but such was the superior team mentality of Stroud, everybody worked brilliantly to control the game and gain a deserved 3 points. A little more switching of play could be an improvement, but this was a fantastic performance.
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16 October 2011 at 09:58
Ecotricity sponsored Stroud Men's 1st XI did a smash and grab job on the 3 points this week with a 2-0 win over local rivals Newent.
Stroud arrived for this fixture determined to improve on their poor showings against Newent last season, having lost both home and away games. Stroud were focused from the off and resolutely played to their game plan.
Newent saw far more possession in a first half they dominated in all except goals scored. They overloaded the Stroud defence on numerous occassions as they poured forward. Stroud remained resolute. Keeper Cathie set the tone early on with a brilliant reaction save low to his right after a strong reverse stick strike - a contender for save of the season. Newent won 8 short corners in the first half but couldn't find a way to unpick the lock. Rob Fynn and Andy Murray calmly dealt with everything Newent could muster whilst Andy Hines at right back and the returning Rob Waite at left back ensured the ball was cleared well down the lines.
Stroud were patient and waited for the opportunities they knew they could create. Their first meaningful foray into the Newent D resulted in a goal. Matt Williams battled hard to win back the ball in midfield and found skipper Alex Waring on the penalty spot. Waring was tightly marked but he sharply moved the ball out of his feet and sent his reverse stick strike high to the keepers left, giving him no chance. 1-0 Stroud at half time.
Stroud prepared for more of the same in the second half but it was Newent who found themselves on the back foot early on. The Stroud midfield and forwards put them under pressure in possession and forced mistakes. Stroud began to work better periods of passing and looked to get in behind the Newent defence that kept pushing forward. When Matt Williams found Waring up the right hand side the break was on, he in turn found Rich Fynn with a well weighted pass as he was breaking beyond the last defender. Fynn did the rest, rounding the advancing keeper to send Stroud 2 goals to the good.
At this stage the game tempo raised as Stroud sensed further goals. Fynn nearly added a third soon after. Rob Fynn throwing an aerial ball into his brothers path, Rich's first time touch lobbing over the keeper only to hit the inside of the post, roll along the line and back out again.
Newent were by no means finished and continued with their gung ho approach in search of a way back into the match. They won further short corners but keeper Sam Cathie was equal to the task, with Andy Murray and Rob Fynn mopping up well. Newent kept pressing and will count themselves unlucky after hitting the bar and the post in later part of the half.
Midfielders Tunney, Williams and Mears worked very hard to keep hold of the ball and Stroud wound down the clock with good periods of possession until Newent won a final short corner on the last whistle. Once again they were unable to find a way past the Stroud defence who will be delighted with a clean sheet and the 3 points!
In truth Newent were very profligate infront of goal and will rue the number of short corners they failed to convert. Stroud on the other hand were clinical, taking their chances, and they made Newent pay.
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09 October 2011 at 21:28
Another Good Win
Stroud A 6 Leominster A 1
Goalscorers: Rohan Sopp (2), Zac Lees (2), Tim Norman, Ben Orme
Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, had another convincing win on Saturday, Zac Lees continuing his scoring spree with another couple of goals, along with youngster, Rohan Sopp. Strong supporting work from Steve Shipp and Tom Sharpe in midfield kept Stroud on top of the game. Stroud took an early lead through Lees, but conceded an equalising goal almost immediately – not good form. They were shocked into life once more and strung some nice moves together before taking the lead again. With the forwards working hard to stretch Leominster’s sluggish defence, openings came. A fine short corner strike from Rob Gleed fell to Tim Norman who dragged the ball back and hammered the ball home. Matt Pearce was influential in front of Stroud’s defence. The prolific Lees struck another goal before half time.
The second half performance wavered between sweet passing and attempts to beat players needlessly. Stroud were always on top, but should have been more convincing. Ben Orme’s hard work was rewarded with a goal and Sopp scored two sweetly hit goals to put the game beyond doubt. Dave Cruickshank made several saves to keep the visitors down to a solitary goal, but the result was never in doubt from half time.
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09 October 2011 at 21:27
In the first league match of the season the Stroud team showed the same drive and ambition that it showed in the pre-season friendlies: from the whistle the team controlled the ball well, made accurate, strong passes and executed some good tackles and interceptions. The fast attacking pace of Carrie Sanders and Nic Kelly-Davies gave the Stroud team the edge when attacking and a fine shot across the D allowed Kathy Williams to open the scoring for Stroud. Stroud’s second goal came from a light touch by Heidi Hepher-Dalton and at half time the Stroud side was 2 goals in front. Stroud’s pressure was relentless and with so much control of the attacking play, the day belonged to the Stroud midfield and its forwards.Jade Crosthwaite was well placed to knock home Stroud’s 3rd goal and Pauline Edgington fired the ball into the net during the closing minutes of the match. Stroud’s defence stood firm throughout and Stroud’s keeper was not called into action. Player of the match, Pauline Edgington.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
09 October 2011 at 20:48
Stroud 1st 2 Dursley 2
An away/home game meant that Dursley played host to Stroud but on Strouds home turf. This gives the advantage of an extra league game played on a new pitch that the Ladies have been training on and beginning to use to their advantage.
A quick start meant that both teams had to dig deep however the score at half time was still 0-0
Both teams had attempts at goal but Dursley found the backboard first, despite the defensive efforts of Aleasha Holder, Sarah Thomas, Becky Stevens and Angharad Roberts. Stroud fought back with two goals coming from Julie Whiting, some hard work from the midfielders Sarah Tudor, Hattie White, Elaine Noone and Karen Willsher allowing the ball to travel up the pitch.
Debbie Ratcliffes positioning at the goal was brilliant however several shots by Claire Crosthwaite and a lovely cross by Kate Davies were saved by the Dursley goalkeeper.
A last goal from Dursley gave them an equaliser near the end of the second half.
Many thanks again go to Rich McColl for his support and assistance
Posted in Ladies 1XI | Match Reports | No Comments
09 October 2011 at 12:09
Stroud 4 Swansea University 2
Stroud Men's 1st XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, played hosts to the student side from Swansea University on Saturday.
Swansea arrived with a full squad of players and seemed very pumped up for the fixture after their long journey from Wales. The Stroud players knew they would have a game on the their hands against a fit looking student squad.
The game began at a frenetic pace, both teams moving the ball quicky and hounding down the opposition when not in possession. Both sides won early short corners and both keepers looked to be in good form, making good saves.
As the game settled into a pattern Stroud began to build some possession and had great 10 minute spell when they should have scored form one the 4 penalty corners they won. Equally, Swansea looked dangerous on the break but couldn't find a way past the resolute Stroud defensive line. Liam Tunney and Nick Batten were strong in the tackle and Andy Murray mopped up most things loose, frustrating the students side as they seacrhed for a goal.
The first half flashed by at pace but finished goaless, Stroud disppointed that they hadn't converted their superior possession.
After some words of counsel from Coach Derek Pittaway, Stroud started the second half strongly determined to find the first goal of the game. They didn't have to wait too long. It was skipper Waring who found the net but in truth the goal was all about Rich Fynn's contribution. Fynn skilly fully weaved hs way through the Swansea defence beating 4 players before sliding the ball through to waring who was waiting on the post to turn the ball goalward. 1-0 Stroud.
Stroud held firm for a short while looking to build on their lead but the student side upped their game and pushed forward. They won a number of short corners on the bounce and eventually found their equaliser as the ball was defelected into the roof of keeper Cathie's net. 1-1.
Stroud didn't have to wait long to regain their lead. Again, Alex Waring popped up on the back post, this time to collect and errant shot by young Calum Norman, who made the goal through great tenacity. Waring calmly controlled the ball and turned it in.
Swansea pushed on in search of another equaliser but began to leave gaps at the back. The midfield trio of Mears, Williams and 15 year old Fin Dixon began to exploit this space, often finding Waring or Clifford out wide. The last 20 minutes of the game became the Fin Dixon show as he scored to goals to quash the oppositions hopes of getting back into the game.
His first goal for the 1stXI came at a crucial time. A break away attack saw Williams find Waring on the baseline who held up the ball and pulled it back to the path of Calum Norman. Norman centred the ball for the advancing Dixon who clinically swept the ball into the roof of the net from the top of the D, depsite the presence of the Swansea kepper charging out at him. A very cool finish from the young man. His second coming soon after, again arriving late into the D he fired a low shot into the backboard to put the match beyond Swansea.
To their credit the students kept taking the battle to Stroud and managed to find one more goal, however despite their resurgance in the last 5 mins time was not on their side and the final whistle went to see Stroud victorious by 2 goals. Final score 4-2.
Thanks must go to umpires Steve Court and John Cull for officiating well in what was a fast and frenetic game.
Posted in Mens 1XI | Match Reports | No Comments
04 October 2011 at 09:51
Stroud Ladies 1XI 6 - BAC 1
After some good pre-season matches the Ladies 1st team came away with the first league win. Despite the hot and unusually warm weather of the day both sides looked strong. Right from the beginning though Stroud looked to dominate the game, some strong passes and good runs meant that forwards and midfield spent a lot of the match in BACs half.
The first goal was well worked, using triangle passing up the side of the pitch and then a cross into the goal from Claire Crosthwaite allowed Angharad Roberts to sweep the ball straight into the goal. 2 more goals followed quickly from Karen Willsher with one of these occurring from a short corner. A hat-trick was then completed by Claire Crosthwaite as for two of the goals she worked with Grace Cullinane, Elaine Noone, Debbie Ratcliffe, Carrie Sanders and Sarah Tudor up the pitch, Claire's third goal however was a one-on-one with the goalkeeper!
Solid work from the defence, Stroud welcomed back Sarah Thomas who worked well with the ladies newest addition Sarah Mace. Becky Stevens had some fantastic clearances, and Aleasha Holder saved a couple of goals using techniques that have been practiced in training.
Many thanks go to Rich McColl as the Ladies Coach for providing support and help during the game and for picking up on some things to work on in training.
Posted in Ladies 1XI | Match Reports | No Comments
03 October 2011 at 16:48
Bristol scored during the first half and an initially ragged Stroud pulled itself together and although there was little calling for the ball, the passing became shorter, harder and more accurate. The Stroud goal came from some good play from Karen Whitehead & Sandra Glass, allowing Kathy Williams to score from the middle of the D. Tati Howell made some acrobatic and vital saves in goal and all three backs were relentless in their determination to stop Bristol scoring once more. The Bristol goal came in the second half and Stroud’s ‘on the whistle’ short corner was saved by the keeper and the rebound shot saved by the Bristol defender to prevent Stroud from scoring the equaliser in a well-matched game. Player of the day, sweeper Letty Adams.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
03 October 2011 at 09:50
Surprisingly, the score could have flattered Cheltenham. Stroud Men’s 2nd XI, sponsored by Ecotricity, should have made double figures in their first League game of the season. Given the incredible, unseasonal October weather, 3 substitutes proved the right choice and kept Stroud’s side as fresh as possible. The match began evenly, Cheltenham looking organised and dangerous on the break. Stroud settled within 10 minutes, however, Nick Hitchcroft and Steve Shipp taking control of the midfield. Much better distribution this week, released Craig Wathen and Rohan Sopp on the right and left, respectively. As the game progressed, Rob Gleed and Alan Edwards pushed forward to give greater support. Returning Ben Orme struck first, his trademark tenacity evident throughout. Rob Gleed then poached a goal with his reverse before the ever-active man-of-the-match Shipp put the visitors 3 up by half time. Stroud still needed to keep their foot on the gas, though. Cheltenham were tricky on the break and Dave Cruickshank was called upon to make several good saves. In general, Stroud played a calculating passing game, holding up the ball and looking to move it on. When they reverted to the dribbling game, it simply didn’t work. Hard work up front meant Stroud always had an outlet. Gleed found Tim Norman with a 60 metre pass and he dispatched his flick with ease. Late to the party, Zac Lees then scored a quick and clinical hat trick as Norman struck the left post 3 times. Stroud’s nice mix of youth and experience was evident once again, Shipp and Hitchcroft working well together at centre mid. Derek Pittaway and Reg Gealer provided a steadying influence, while Jack Hamilton and Matt Watts had solid games. On a constructive critical note, more short corners need to be won, instead of going for half chances. Stroud will look to consolidate their fine but comfortable start when they play hosts to Leominster A at 2 p.m. next Saturday.
Posted in Mens 2XI | Match Reports | No Comments
26 September 2011 at 10:59
Stroud A 5 Gloucester B 2
Goalscorers:Tim Norman (2), Fin Dixon, Rich Cartmell, Zac Lees
A fine pre-autumnal afternoon provided the backdrop to Ecotricity-sponsored Stroud Men’s 2nd XI on Saturday. Yet another new lineup greeted the visitors, but a determined Stroud were soon on the attack. Steve Shipp ticked all the boxes in midfield, providing Stroud with a pivot to feed wide midfielders, Fin Dixon and Rohan Sopp. Jack Hamilton played a steady hand at left back, with Dave Cruickshank showing some wonderful athleticism in goal. A powerful move down the left led to a fine probing cross from Dixon at Tim Norman whose deflection put the home side in front. Gloucester pulled a goal back and Stroud laboured to get their game together. Rich Cartmell and Zac Lees tried to work the right flank, before Cartmell positioned himself perfectly to receive a pass from the back line and put Stroud ahead again. The home side then looked to have extended their lead before the break, but after some deliberation, the goal was not given.
The second half still left room for improvement as Stroud tended to steer clear of the right side of the pitch. Movement was good, however, and Rob Gleed did find space to play the ball down the right at times. A wonderful move involving Shipp, Cartmell and Wathen led to fine finish by Dixon, putting a smile on Stroud’s supporting faces. A lull in proceedings allowed Gloucester to pull another goal back and for a few moments, Stroud found themselves challenged at the back. Mike Hallett and Hermes Carlyon were not flustered and Cruickshank’s efforts ensured the visitors did not spoil the party. Norman made the game safe with a typical centre forward’s poach before Lees continued his scoring spree with Stroud’s 5th of the day.
Next week they face Cheltenham C in the season’s first League encounter and will look to improve further still.
Posted in Mens 2XI | Match Reports | No Comments
20 September 2011 at 14:58
Stroud Ladies 1st XI 6 Wotton-under-Edge Ladies XI 1
The ladies 1st XI put on an impressive start to the year with a win against Wotton-under-Edge. The first of several friendly’s proved to be a good warm up game before League starts.
With goals coming from Julie Whiting, Fran Evans, Lucy Moule and Elaine Noone, all showing an array of skills. The defence also held strong with Aleasha Holder saving several good goals, and new addition Sarah Mace put on a great performance, fitting right in with the team. The midfield kept going even when the team looked like tiring, never giving up. The team is growing in strength and hope to continue throughout the season with good performances.
A great start for the Ladies 1st team.
Posted in Ladies 1XI | Match Reports | No Comments
19 September 2011 at 12:34
STROUD LADIES 2ND X1 – 7 THORNBURY LADIES – 1
Stroud’s forward Nic Kelly-Davies made an impressive start to this season with a double hat-trick, scoring 6 of Stroud’s goals against Thornbury.
Stroud was very slow to get started but finally the rigorous short corner practise at training allowed Hannah Scott to open the scoring for Stroud when she powered the ball into the left hand corner of the goal from a direct strike. At half time the score was 1-0.
During the second half, Stroud got into its stride and played some flawless, textbook, attacking hockey. The squad’s practise over the past few weeks had allowed the team to become accustomed to the bounce and speed of the Leisure Centre’s recently laid Astroturf pitch. The new players in the squad this season - Katherine Stevens, Victoria Sharp, Emma Tapley and Letty Adams all fitted into the ‘diamond’ system well under the experienced guidance of this season’s team captain Katy Stotesbury. Regular members of the squad slotted into their new positions impressively with Lizzie Woods and Carrie Sanders expertly and swiftly supporting the attack on many occasions.
A great start to the season and the team is looking forward to its first league game in a few weeks time. Player of the match was Nic Kelly-Davies.
Posted in Match Reports | Ladies 2XI | No Comments
19 September 2011 at 09:38
Stroud M1 Win Convincingly
Stroud Men’s 1st XI 5 Lansdown Men’s 1st XI 1
Goalscorers: Jamie Batten, Brad Mears, Rob Fynn, Dan Clifford, Alex Waring
Ecotricity-sponsored Stroud started the match playing the passing and possession hockey that the team has been working towards for the last couple of seasons. Excellent work by midfielder Brad Mears and sweeper Rob Fynn maintained the shape and enabled the skills of Rich Fynn, Jamie Batten, and Matt Williams to create inroads into the opposition D. The forward line of Dan Clifford, Calum Norman and Alex Waring looked ever-menacing.
Stroud’s first goal came from a 1-on-1 by Batten who ghosted round the keeper. The second came from a short corner breakdown where Mears slammed the ball into the back boards. Stroud continued their form and the passing and possession of Hines, Nick Batten and Andy Murray in the back line helped force another short corner which Rob Fynn dispatched inside the right post.
In the second half Stroud’s game plan fell apart slightly and Lansdown came back into the match. Despite a number of fine saves by keeper Sam Cathie, Lansdown finally managed to scramble a goal. This prompted Stroud to step up their game again and two more goals ensued as Rich Fynn created a chance that Clifford dispatched from the far post and Jamie Batten rounded the defence from the right side to set up captain Waring for the fifth and final goal.
Stroud M2 in Entertaining Draw
Lansdown A 3 Stroud A 3
Goalscorers: Rob Gleed (2), Zac Lees
Ecotricity-sponsored Stroud produced some good hockey at times on Saturday, unfortunately interspersed with the occasional aberration. They started the match on the offensive, Tom Sharpe and Fin Dixon looking strong in midfield. They should have been the first to score, but Lansdown took the initiative. Stroud bounced back with a fine passing move, Zac Lees having the easiest of finishes with another 3 Stroud players vying for the honours ! They relaxed so much that they went behind again within a minute of the restart. Rob Gleed’s short corner strike made it all square but Lansdown again took the lead. Stroud stretched the opposition defence and were rewarded with another short corner from which Gleed scored his second. There were some good signs, particularly on the short corner routine front.
Anybody interested in playing Men’s hockey is encouraged to call Tim Norman on 07774 273044 or email him at tim@timnorman.plus.com. Alternatively, visit www.stroudhockeyclub.com for details of training and matches.
Remember:
Training has started. Tuesday nights at Stratford Park LC - Juniors 6pm to 7-15pm, Ladies 7pm to 8-15pm and Men 7-30pm to 9pm, roughly !
Club e-mail address:
tim@stroudhockeyclub.co.uk
Club website address:
http://www.stroudhockeyclub.com/
Posted in Match Reports | Mens 2XI | Mens 1XI | No Comments
07 September 2011 at 14:12
Stroud A 8 Cleevillians A 3
Goalscorers:Tim Norman (3), Rob Gleed (2), Craig Wathen, Liam Tunney, Zac Lees
A new pitch and a new season materialised on Saturday. Stroud Hockey Club, sponsored by Ecotricity for another year, were joined by Stroud District Council to celebrate Stratford Park Leisure Centre’s first matches on the new surface. To be fair, Stroud Men’s 1st XI, played the opening match but, in truth, it was the 2nd XI who set it alight ! The usual start of season availability issues aside, Stroud’s side looked sound on paper. With Derek Pittaway in the role of manager, Tim Norman led his side into the friendly late summer opener, looking to avoid injury and pass the ball around in style. The presence of Liam Tunney at centre mid was a real asset. His experience and vision soon began to show. Craig Wathen shared the centre with him, but was given a more attacking agenda, while a fit-looking Rob Dove and eager Rob Gleed provided good opportunities down the left and right flanks. Norman belied his age up front with Zac Lees, a player 30 years younger. Stroud passed the ball around well, looking confident and determined. A spread of ages from 19 to 48 produced flair and control. Wathen’s early flurries offered early signs of greatness to come. Reg Gealer looked measured at left back and Alan Edwards was like a dog on a leash at centre back, always looking to break out. Sam Cathie in goal made several important stops and Andy Hines was a welcome addition to the defence. It was Mr Gleed who opened Stroud’s account. The early pressure finally told as he cleaned up after a half-clearance. Shortly afterwards, Wathen worked his magic in the D before tucking the ball into the corner. Tunney’s fine work gave him a shot from top D. Bound for the keeper’s pads, it was deflected into the top corner by Norman. Probably the move of the game followed. Six passes out of defence, down the left to Dove, across and into the path of Tunney to finish off a wonderful move. Tunney then fired in a fine pass to Norman whose stop, turn and shot into the left corner was too quick for the keeper. Cleevillians struck back, 3 times to be precise. It could have worried Stroud, but they were unfazed. Pittaway came on for Hines at left back, testing his ankle for the first time since an operation, and he looked sound alongside Andy Murray in defence.
The second half saw further developments, Stroud seemingly making space all over the pitch. Plenty of movement gave Pittaway, Murray and Gealer many passing opportunities and Stroud were not afraid to retain possession. Gleed scored a second, a cracking finish from the right. Then it was Gealer who fired in the perfect ball to Norman to deflect high into the net. Lees got his just reward for all his hard work at last, finishing off another fine move.
It may have been the first friendly of the season and a month away from the League opener, but the signs were there for good things to come. With players returning from holiday, the presence of Tunney in midfield, Pittaway directing, youngsters to return and experience all round, Stroud should be looking to put out strong teams for 2nd XI and 3rd XI games this season. A fine start indeed, and a nice way to christen the new playing surface. Well done, guys !
Posted in Mens 2XI | Match Reports | Mens 1XI | No Comments
08 March 2011 at 00:00
Training is CANCELLED tonight (8 March 2011). The astroturf pitch is being hacked about to determine what needs doing prior to relaying it during the summer.
Posted in Training | Match Reports | Match Reports | No Comments
08 March 2011 at 00:00
Training is CANCELLED tonight (8 March 2011). The astroturf pitch is being hacked about to determine what needs doing prior to relaying it during the summer.
Posted in Training | Match Reports | Match Reports | No Comments
