MINEHEAD Hockey Club’s men’s 2nds hosted Old Bristolian 4s for the first time this season in the only match of the half-term weekend. The opposition looked strong despite having only ten men, and the seasiders knew they were in for a tussle.

Unfortunately, the game did not start well for Minehead; within five minutes, Bristol managed to get on the scoreboard. Despite being a man down, it was clear there were some strong players in their centre midfield driving play through the middle – they were going to be a pain throughout the game.

Minehead managed to compose themselves and not let the early goal get into their heads, ensuring they kept their formation; passing round the ten-man opposition and making the most of the extra player. Within 15 minutes of the first half, pressing high and keeping play into the opposition’s half, Minehead were awarded with a goal of their own, with a strike hitting the opposition’s foot before hitting the backboard. Despite several short corners being conceded, the home side managed to defend the 1-1 scoreline with some great on-the line defending from Paul Jones.

Minehead were hoping to capitalise on a tiring opposition in the second half. Sam and Ben Cobb worked hard in the midfield giving them wide options to drive play up the pitch and into goal scoring territory.

As the half drew to a close, Minehead had possession but struggled to turn this into goals. Five minutes towards the end, the opposition were down to nine men due to some choice words to the umpire but this was not long enough a window of time for Minehead to capitalise on.

Though disappointing given the ten-man opposition, there was some good breaks, positioning and movement of the ball – positives to take forward to the next game.

There are no matches this coming weekend.