Bury St Edmunds 5s Secure Dominant Win Over Christchurch

Bury St Edmunds 5s put in a commanding performance against Christchurch in a thrilling match at Gainsborough Sports Centre, securing a well-earned 4-1 victory. Despite challenging pitch conditions—deep sand and an uneven surface making ball control difficult—Bury rose to the occasion with an impressive display of attacking hockey .

The match started with Bury in full control, launching multiple shots on goal in the opening minutes. However, they were unable to capitalise on their early dominance, and it was Christchurch who struck first with a fortunate goal against the run of play. Unfazed, Bury responded with resilience, and their forwards soon found their rhythm, slipping a ball in top D to find Kathryn Mitchell who executed a lovely slip across goal face to find Devonne Kennedy who tapped in Bury’s equaliser to bring the game back on level terms at half time.

Some nervy moments followed, as defensive gaps left Bury vulnerable at the back, but quick tactical adjustments from the captain helped steady the ship. With their shape restored, Bury’s attacking line surged forward again, as some neat passing found Fran Clear heading into the D with the ball and taking a shot, secured a crucial second goal. From that moment on, they found their rhythm and looked unstoppable.

Their momentum only grew as the match progressed, culminating in a well-worked third goal from a penalty corner. Kathryn Mitchell received the ball at top D and showing her experience, held the ball and provided Mel Podd with a perfect timed and weighted pass that she turned into a flick which sunk into the net behind the keeper. While Christchurch battling hard to stay in the game, Bury showed their superiority by sealing the win with a fourth and final goal, and Devonne Kennedy’s 2nd of the day, putting the result beyond doubt.
Credit must go to Christchurch, who remained determined throughout, with their goalkeeper pulling off some outstanding saves—particularly in the first half—to keep the scoreline respectable. However, Bury’s superior teamwork, smart use of substitutions, and attacking prowess ultimately proved decisive.

A fantastic all-round performance from Bury St Edmunds Fives—well played!

This was another game in which the Player of the Match was a split affair with many players getting a mention, Aoife Gorman was just pipped by Daisy Sharp to take the day’s accolade.

With thanks to Mr Garner for his help with the match report and Jane Dryland for doing a super job with our subbing!