Mens 5 vs Newmarket 4 Dev

So picture this, its a Saturday in October and after a week of rain the sun finally comes out and even better you have a hockey match to look forward to, this is what faced the merry Men's 5s as they took to the road again, for the 3rd week in a row for a Development match, to visit Newmarket, would it be a canter or would we fall at the hurdle all bets were off on this one?

Depleted by injuries in our defence with JB out with a wicked hammy injury and Andy blaming his knee for not fancying it today St Ives went with a core of senior players and bouyant juniors with whom 2 made their debuts, St Ives set up in a 4 4 2 formation using the senior members through the middle to guide and support our youngsters and our young superstars taking to the wings where they could utilise the space. The first half started with Ives setting their lines early and absorbing pressure with cool heads with great communication from the juniors who looked wise beyond their years. 0-0 half time.

 Second half started much the same with St Ives absorbing pressure but also our youngsters stretching the Newmarket lines and putting great pressure with slick passing and runs using the experience of central midfield to open gaps but no goals came. Newmarket took full advantage of their shorts to score 3 and then a wicked shot to make it 4.

 As a keeper I personally feel the need to improve my performances but I cannot be more proud of the team who stuck together and our juniors who didn't give up, you have done us proud. A thanks also goes to Tracey Jago and JB who came and ran the subs for us but also constantly encouraged the team

 Next week, another Development match against Bourne Deeping but finally on our own pitch!