Mixed XI Vs Past v Present players

Match Report

Caradon Hockey - Present.....4

Caradon Hockey - Past..........2

With some unfinished business from the 2015 game, the Caradon Hockey Club former players sought to avenge last years defeat by fielding a strong side against the current clubs members in the annual Christmas fixture at Lux Park, Liskeard.

It was a cold but dry day, perfect conditions for players but maybe not for the strong band of supporters and families who turned out to watch some high quality hockey and renew old acquaintances.

Past players started well and thought they had made an early breakthrough from a penalty corner only for the goal to be disallowed for technical reasons.

Present fought back and quickly took the lead after a strong midfield run by Martin Batty leading to a deft deflection by Leon Farrow. Claire Brown and Chloe Higman showed the former players how the game is currently played but couldn't stop Robbie McCartney scoring from open play with a strong shot which saw the ball being split in two when it struck the back board of the goal

It was not long before the current team regained their lead after some intricate stick work releasing Chris Fasey who scored from the edge of the "D". Just before half time the ex players regained parity from a disputed corner which led to Bizzie Dinnis scoring low to the keepers right.

The half time break gave both sides the chance to regroup and although the past players came out strongly with lots of possession they struggled to find a way past the excellent goalkeeping of Dan Harris, who made several brilliant saves. 

As the older players tired, the present side gained the edge with a fine goal from Luke Jeffery. The home team crowned their success with the goal of the game from Caradon stalwart Neil Spencer, a candidate for man of the match, but just pipped by keeper Harris.

The final result of 4-2 was fair to both teams and reflected the effort put in.

This was a great game of hockey and the players should be proud of what they have achieved for the club and for themselves when they have taken their hockey skills elsewhere. Special thanks go to club sponsors Burcombe Haulage who supported the fixture.

Ladies hockey fixtures recommence in the New Year on 7th January. Caradon welcomes all new members with training on Wednesday evenings at Lux Park - for information please visit the club website http://caradonhc.clubbuzz.co.uk.