MINEHEAD Hockey Club’s men’s first team travelled in strength to Bristol to play Firebrands 2s hoping to notch their first win of the season - but came away with an unlucky 2-1 loss.

The downturn in the weather was good news for the club as various farmers finally found space in their spud planting and maize harvesting calendars. A squad of 14 left captain Tom White spoilt for choice, particularly in the right back position - only the five of them travelled this week.

The first half was a competitive affair, short on clear cut chances for either team but good spells for both sides ultimately saw half time arrive with the score at 0-0. Unfortunately for Minehead Nick Hill had his feathers ruffled and picked up a yellow card for “raising his voice” meaning they closed out the half with ten men. Ultimately honours even though.

The second half opened with a monsoon to make the pitch extra slippery but some liquid hockey from Minehead was capped off by Lawrence Taylor slotting a finish past the on-rushing keeper. One-nil to Minehead and their tails were up. Keeping the pressure on, Minehead were in the ascendancy for a good portion of the second half until losing the ball high up the pitch left them exposed at the back. Captain White took it upon himself to try to intervene. One filthy stick tackle later and the second card, of the green variety, was shown Minehead’s way. Down to ten men Minehead battled well, Adrian Bagg showing his worth in goal with a number of stops and Andrew Covey excelling at the heart of defence.

Not content with one yellow - Nick Hill was adjudged to have spoiled a goal scoring opportunity in the final quarter. Another yellow, Minehead down to nine and trouble incoming. Various short corners and a numerical advantage ultimately saw Firebrands handed too many opportunities and the pressure finally told. Two short corner drag flicks in the final 10 minutes saw Firebrands come away with a 2-1 win.

This was a heartening performance from Minehead with points undoubtedly on their way if they continue to play astheydid. Glenmore Bakery Man of the match was Andrew Covey for being steadfast at the back. Nick Hill going home lighter in the wallet department as expected for collecting cards like it was going out of fashion. Onto Bridgwater this weekend with three points becoming increasingly important to get the season up and running.