Whitley Bay & Tynemouth Hockey Club

WBTHC 2 v Team Northumbria 2

WBTHC Men's 2s travelled to local neighbours Team Northumbria looking to bounce back from their first dropped points the week before.  WBT were strengthened by the return of Smith and Noble in the midfield but were missing the experience of Emms at the back.  Team Northumbria fielded a strong team and it was they who made the early running in what would turn out to be a closely matched game. After both teams had created early chances, it was Team Northumbria who took the lead after a deflected shot sent the WBT keeper the wrong way. This seemed to galvanise top of the table WBT and, with Duncan, Noble, Evans and Smith taking a grip of the midfield, started to create numerous chances. First, the equaliser from Robson after good work from Smith, then a second from Evans, converting a beautiful pass from Adams, and then a third, a breakaway goal from Evans, to make it 3-1 to WBT with still 10 mins of the first half to go. WBT then seemed to take their foot off the gas and Thompson, Butler and Read were called upon to make numerous late interventions. With time up in the first half, Team Northumbria were awarded a short corner, which they duly converted, another deflected shot leaving Read stranded for a second time.

3-2 at half time and the second half would see WBT have to soak up a lot of pressure, as Noble attempted to marshall his troops and get the all important fourth, it was Read who was again called into action to keep his side ahead.  With time running out and Team Northumbria pushing for an equaliser, Evans took a quick free hit and with a reverse stick hit completed his hat-trick and the scoring to give WBT a 4-2 victory.  A great result which keeps WBT at the top of the table ahead of next week's trip to Norton.

MOM: Evans DOD: Evans

Team Northumbria 2 (2-4) WBTHC 2