Men’s development team off to a great start

Our development team’s first match saw a full squad including 5 youngsters aged 15 and below together with some grizzled veterans take on Ipswich and East Suffolk 4’s at Culford.

With a 67-year age difference between the eldest and youngest player (yes that’s 67 years) there was some nervousness at pushback, but we shouldn’t have worried. With Sully guiding us from centre back, and Norman’s experience in central midfield it really couldn’t have gone much better as we recorded a 2-1 win.

Everyone raised their game, but special mention must go to the youngsters….

Fynn Etherton and Greg Slater, both playing their first ever adult hockey match quickly adapted to the pace of the game. Greg beat two adults the first time he received the ball and Fynn impressed with his persistence, skill and speed. Up front Arthur Lond-Calk created several chances with his movement and pace – if only his second half reverse stick shot had gone in rather than smacking the post! Arthur was ably abetted by Seb Konrath who had two first half shots well saved by the IES keeper. Further back Blake Norman also had a really solid game making several important interceptions and distributing the ball well.

For the record our two goals were scored by Martin Sully from short corners, the winning goal coming in the 65th minute after a period of sustained pressure from Bury.

Everyone came off the pitch smiling – roll on next week!!!