Copthill A hockey boys played a very well organised and strong Oakham U12A side on Wednesday. Whilst they lost the match, some of the hockey the boys played was super to watch. They kept the spirits up and their enthusiasm shone through. They tried hard to find space and knit together triangles of passing, but the Oakham rear-guard was hard to break down!
I was pleased with the boys attitudes throughout the fixture and the way they conducted themselves as the visiting team. I hope they have learnt something from this game, as Oakham were a delight to watch and that the boys could see how easy it was for them to spray the ball around the astro.
Well done to you all.
Copthill Boys Hockey B v Oakham
Playing an opposition of older boys we knew would be a tough task, but we agreed that if we played as a team with togetherness and purpose we could achieve a result. We also talked about our work rate off the ball; giving as many passing options as possible, and covering back to support the defensive effort. So it was pleasing to see those strategies being used to such good effect in our first game against an experienced and skilful Oakham side. With Ronan in sparkling form in goal our confidence grew as the game went on, each and every player getting stuck into their roles and taking responsibility. Joshua and Jenson fearlessly absorbed many dangerous attacks, and our midfield lead by Kailen and Felix looked very composed, selecting passes to use the width of the pitch and find our energetic forwards in Moss, Monty and Yusuf. A very creditable goalless draw at final whistle, and some great hockey on show.
In the second game we came unstuck more perhaps because of the gulf in sporting experience. The half time self-congratulations were still fresh in our ears as we picked the ball out of our goal having been served a lesson in switching on by a ruthless counter-attack and skilful finish. Then, as so often happens, chasing the game hard each individual puts in extra effort at the cost of team shape; so the second goal goes in. Finally, with nothing to lose and a high press for a consolation goal, we leave ourselves vulnerable to a well taken third. Never mind, all very good experience that we can bank and learn from, but it doesn’t take away from the excellent hockey and spirited teamwork shown by all the boys today! Congratulations!
The Copthill C team played a triangular event against 2 Oakham teams. They started brightly and Mr Ralph was encouraged by their teamwork and energy levels they showed. Their first match ended in a 1-0 defeat but it was a very close match and the boys had chances to score. In their second match, the boys energy levels dropped a little and the opposition was a little stronger, therefore resulting in a 3-0 loss.
All the boys should be proud of their efforts and to play boys who are Y7 can sometimes be a daunting task, so well done to you all!
