University of Birmingham 4-2 Whitchurch HC

Whitchurch slip to fourth place in the EHL Conference West after a 4-2 defeat at Birmingham University.  In a hectic opening twenty minutes the teams shared four goals.  Nils Lloyd-Penny opened the scoring for Birmingham seven minutes into the game following a well-worked move which opened up the Whitchurch defence.  Whitchurch responded immediately, Laith El Khatib finishing off a good passing movement to equalise, and then a few minutes later Rhys Gowman fired home from a penalty corner rebound to give Whitchurch the lead. 

The hard working students hit back, Peter Jackson equalising for Birmingham also from a penalty corner and the game was evenly poised at half-time.   The students started the second period strongly and twelve minutes into the half Nick Rees cleverly turned home a loose ball to put Birmingham ahead.  Whitchurch pushed hard for an equaliser, but could not find the net, and then three minutes from time Ben Stoney made the game safe for Birmingham, firing home to leave the students 4-2 winners.

In the N4 Hockey League second placed Whitchurch B maintained their promotion challenge in North Two with a 3-0 win at Cardiff Medicals, Dave Harris, Rhys Thomas and Alun Welsh the goal scorers.  In the same division striker Dave Joyce was in fine form for Whitchurch C, hitting four of the goals as his side overcame visitors Team Bath Buccs C 5-3.  Whitchurch D lost 3-2 at Llan & Caer A in South Wales division one whilst a hat-trick from Karl Davis helped promotion chasing Whitchurch E to a 7-2 success against Neath A in division two.  In division three Tom Vaal scored a hat-trick in second placed Whitchurch F’s 4-2 win against Abergavenny A and Whitchurch G stay third after a 3-0 win against Llan & Caer B.  Whitchurch H were in action twice, losing 7-3 at Bridgend C and beating Abergavenny A 4-3.

Whitchurch HC 1-1 Guildford

Whitchurch drew 1-1 with visitors Guildford in a closely-contested EHL encounter.  Both sides struggled to create openings in an even first half against well-organised defences, though Whitchurch missed a penalty corner chance early on.  Midway through the half a forceful run by Mark Whatling earned the first of three penalty corners in quick succession, but they were well defended by goalkeeper Simon Mason and the Guildford defence.   Guildford enjoyed good possession and were neat in their build-up but their final ball failed to pierce the Whitchurch defence, well-marshalled by Jonny Gordon and Alex Keating.  Whitchurch keeper Iwan Williams was quick to move off his line to smother a dangerous Guildford attack early in the second period and the visitors failed to take advantage of their first penalty corner opportunity minutes later.  The deadlock was broken by Whitchurch fifteen minutes into the half.  A strong break out of defence down the right led to Laith El Khatib crossing for Jonny Gordon to earn a penalty corner, well despatched by Mark Whatling to put Whitchurch 1-0 up.  The lead, though, lasted just seven minutes, William Blockley firing home from a penalty corner to earn Guildford a share of the points.

Havant 1-1 Whitchurch HC

Whitchurch had to work hard to earn a 1-1 draw from a difficult away encounter at Havant in their latest EHL match.  Whitchurch dominated the early possession and took the lead after six minutes, Alex Keating converting a penalty corner.  Whitchurch had another penalty corner chance following a good run by Joe Naughalty before the Hampshire side broke quickly, forcing Whitchurch keeper Iwan Williams into a smart save to deny the Havant forwards.   Whitchurch were playing well but could not convert their chances and six minutes before the break Havant drew level, danger man Ezz Mohamed firing home from close range.  Both sides had chances to win the game in the second period, Mohamed hitting a post for Havant and Jamie Westerman going close for Whitchurch after a fine pass from Ben Croxall. Both sides went for the winner in a hectic last quarter but there was no further score and Whitchurch gained a creditable point to keep them in second place in the Conference West table.

Whitchurch C 4-0 Bristol & West A

The 4ths took all three points in this hard fought victory against the Bristol visitors. 

Despite lacking precision and a number of players (the captain in particular) looking like they hadn’t really got out of bed, from the outset the home side pressed forward but were frequently frustrated by a massed defence. The first real chance of the game, however, fell to their opponents and Dan Emberson made a fine save from a short corner. This was something of a wake-up call, and with Jon Watts repeatedly driving round the back of the opposition it seemed only a matter of time before the first goal came. This arrived in the 18th minute when Mark Eggar latched onto a desperate clearance and fired home from the edge of the ‘D’. Whitchurch continued to press forward but in hope rather than with any real plan, and got to half-time with a fairly tenuous 1-0 lead. 

In the second half Whitchurch stepped up their work rate and also retained possession much more effectively, choosing to play the ball around and prompt for openings rather than simply trying to barge their way through to the Bristol goal. Their patience paid off, and six minutes after the break Andrew ‘Governor’ Hornby deftly deflected in the second goal. A third followed shortly when a precision far-post cross by Kieran Kingston (the only good thing he did all game) was flicked home by Dave Joyce. 

With strong performances from Adam Stone and Ben Roberts (making his debut partnering King in the middle) limiting the opportunities of a Bristol revival the scoring was complete when a (football) goal bound shot from Tom Riley flew off a defenders stick into the net.

Whitchurch C 4-0 Bristol & West A

The 4ths took all three points in this hard fought victory against the Bristol visitors. 

Despite lacking precision and a number of players (the captain in particular) looking like they hadn’t really got out of bed, from the outset the home side pressed forward but were frequently frustrated by a massed defence. The first real chance of the game, however, fell to their opponents and Dan Emberson made a fine save from a short corner. This was something of a wake-up call, and with Jon Watts repeatedly driving round the back of the opposition it seemed only a matter of time before the first goal came. This arrived in the 18th minute when Mark Eggar latched onto a desperate clearance and fired home from the edge of the ‘D’. Whitchurch continued to press forward but in hope rather than with any real plan, and got to half-time with a fairly tenuous 1-0 lead. 

In the second half Whitchurch stepped up their work rate and also retained possession much more effectively, choosing to play the ball around and prompt for openings rather than simply trying to barge their way through to the Bristol goal. Their patience paid off, and six minutes after the break Andrew ‘Governor’ Hornby deftly deflected in the second goal. A third followed shortly when a precision far-post cross by Kieran Kingston (the only good thing he did all game) was flicked home by Dave Joyce. 

With strong performances from Adam Stone and Ben Roberts (making his debut partnering King in the middle) limiting the opportunities of a Bristol revival the scoring was complete when a (football) goal bound shot from Tom Riley flew off a defenders stick into the net.

Whitchurch 3-1 Plymouth Marjons

Whitchurch were keen to kick start their league campaign after a disapointing finish to 2009.  They started the game well and looked composed on the ball.  The sharpness gained from the indoor season was evident.

Both teams seemed keen to play expansive hockey, with the game flowing from end to end.  It was the home side who generally looked the more dangerous, with Whitchurch keeper and Captain Iwan Williams largely untroubled, bar the odd half chance.

Mid way through the first period and strong drive infield from the left by Richard John released Mark Whatling, who in trun found Laith El Khatib free on the right of the circle.  His mis-trap popped the ball up, allowing him to tap it around the on-coming keeper and Jamie Westerman to volley home.

Whitchurch continued to look dangerous and the more likely to add to the score, but a combination of stout defending, solid goalkeeping and profligate finishing left the score at 1-0.  Jamie Westerman made a break down the left and took a snapshot when a slip square might have been the better option.  El Khatib repeated matters from the right, with the same result.

It was again El Khatib making inroads down the right and driving into the circle. Cutting across the on-rushing keeper and cleverly turning away from goal had his standing leg taken by a helpless goalkeeper, resulting in an inevitable penalty stroke.  Ben Croxal stepped up and duly drove the ball low and wide.

With the score remaining at 1-0 it Was Plymouth who were spurred on.  Calum Giles forced a smart save from keeper Williams with a rising reverse drive.  Whitchurch were made to regret not taking their chances - giving away a needless penalty corner, duly despatched by drag flick specialist Giles, inside the hour.

The true turning point in the game was a smart double save from Williams following another Plymouth penalty corner.  Whitchurch realised all three points could easily have been lossed and this was their game to lose.  To their credit Whitchurch stuck to the task and sealed the game with two fine goals from 18-year old Rhys Gowman.  The first a clever deflection, stealing in around the back of the defence and the second a probing run into the circle with a composed reverse stick finish, a minute before time.

Whitchurch consolidated second place after leaders Team Bath Buccs could only draw 3-3 at home to third place Fareham.  Next week Whitchurch travel to Havant.

Whitchurch are the 2009/10 Welsh Indoor Champions after a thrilling 6-5 win against Cardiff & UWIC in the final of the indoor championships held at Rhydycar Leisure Centre in Merthyr.  Whitchurch came through their pool games with a 5-5 draw against Cardiff & UWIC and an 8-2 win against Northop Hall and then overcame Glyndwr University 10-6 in the semi-finals to set up the rematch with Cardiff & UWIC in the final.  In a close and competitive match a hat-trick from Joe Naughalty and goals from Jonny Gordon and Mark Whatling and a last minute winner from Tom Vinney earned Whitchurch the Indoor title.    

Whitchurch return to outdoor action this weekend with the resumption of the EHL programme.  Currently lying in third place in the Conference West division they play Plymouth Marjon at home on Sunday (1:00 at W.I.S.).  

In the N4 Hockey League second placed Whitchurch B dropped points in a 1-1 draw with Whitchurch C in the North Two division, Dave Joyce giving Whitchurch C the lead with Rhodri Ryland equalising for Whitchurch B.  Whitchurch F move up to second place in South Wales three after an 8-2 win at Bridgend C, skipper Martin Church, Richard Jones and Tom Vaal scored two goals each with Colin McIlhagge and Ryan Morse also on target.  In the same division Whitchurch G slip to third after a 6-2 defeat at Gwent B, Josh Canter and Massulo Muliro the Whitchurch scorers.

What a difference seven days makes!  After the disappointment of the previous week’s result at Robinsons the 4s produced one of their best performances of the campaign to stun the table leaders, and at the same time assist the 3s in their promotion push. 

This win was a complete team effort. The defence was well organised by Andy King in his first game back after a long-term injury. Midfield was orchestrated by acting captain Mark Eggar with eager prompting by Mo Uzman. But it is wrong to single out any individual because everybody contributed in inflicting only Swansea’s second defeat of the season. 

The visitors had the best of the exchanges in the opening minutes of the match. With their first touch play and running off the ball it was evident why they have been so successful.  Early on Pete Bowles made two fine reflex saves at close quarters to prevent the visitors taking the lead.  Whitchurch gradually asserted themselves and began to find success with their close passing game.  Pressing forward they came close to making the breakthrough just as the half-time whistle came.  

As the second half progressed the home side increasingly took the game to Swansea.  With the defence holding firm the 4s eventually took the lead with fifteen minutes left.  A perceptive pass by Tom Riley split the Swansea midfield and found Jasper Joyce in space.  His initial (topped) shot from the edge of the D was saved but the rebound was crisply converted.  The league leaders rallied as they tried to retrieve something from the afternoon but a fine interchange of passes between Dan Potts and Jasper Joyce led to the latter firing home to complete an excellent 2-0 victory. 

The Blue Army

Whitchurch overcame visitors Aberystwyth University 13-0 to move into the semi finals of the Welsh Cup, Joe Naughalty (4), Rhys Gowman (3), Laith El, Khatib (3), Alex Keating, James Kyriakides and Jamie Westerman the goal scorers.

Goals from Adam Unitt and Gareth Thomas gained Whitchurch A a narrow 2-1 win against visitors Bristol UWE in Premier One of the N4 Hockey League.  In North Two second placed Whitchurch B maintained their promotion push with a 5-2 win at Team Bath Buccaneers C, Ryan Corner, Jake Joyce, Alun Welsh, Rhys Davies and Dale Harris the goal scorers.  In the same division two goals late in the game from striker Dave Joyce gave Whitchurch C a fine 2-0 win against leaders Swansea University. 

Dave Skirrow was on target to earn Whitchurch D a valuable point in a 1-1 draw at Swansea University A in South Wales division one but division two front runners Whitchurch E slipped to a 3-0 defeat at Cardiff University C.  First half goals from Colin McIlhagge and Tom Vaal gained Whitchurch F a 2-1 win against Gwent B in division three and goals from Rob Gilbertson (4) and Josh Canter gave Whitchurch G a 5-1 win against Whitchurch H, Tim Savage their scorer.  Whitchurch G and Whitchurch F lie in second and third places in the division separated by a single goal difference.

Whitchurch A lost 4-1 at Devizes in Premier One of the N4 Hockey League but in the North Two division goals from Rhys Davies and Rhodri Ryland gave second placed Whitchurch B an excellent 2-1 win against close rivals Devizes A.  In the same division Whitchurch C and Cardiff Medicals fought out an exciting 4-4 draw, Dave Joyce and Jon Watts scoring two goals apiece for Whitchurch.  In South Wales division one Whitchurch D lost 2-1 at Aberystwyth University whilst division two front runners Whitchurch E beat visitors Swansea Bay D 7-0, with skipper Mathew Rapson, Karl Davis and Jon Wilks scoring two goals each and Josh Hurford also on target.  Whitchurch F and Whitchurch G drew 1-1 in division three, Rob Gilbertson putting Whitchurch G ahead in the first half with Richard Jones equalising early in the second period.

Whitchurch A suffered a 3-1 home reverse to Taunton Vale in Premier One of the N4 Hockey League.  Whitchurch B remain in 2nd place in North Two after losing 3-0 at leaders Swansea University and Whitchurch C went down 4-3 to Swansea Bay A in the same division.  Whitchurch E return to the top of South Wales division two after a 6-3 win against Cardiff Medicals A.  Skipper Mathew Rapson led the way with a hat-trick and Mark Lewis, Andrew Shough and Jon Wilks were also on target.  Whitchurch F move up to 2nd in division three after a 5-2 win against Whitchurch H, Richard Jones (2), Colin McIlhagge (2) and skipper Martin Church their goal scorers with Tim Savage scoring both goals for Whitchurch H, and Whitchurch G are 3rd in the table after a 2-1 home defeat by leaders Swansea University B.

Whitchurch fell to a disappointing 3-2 defeat at Old Georgians in their final EHL match before the mid-season break.  Whitchurch opened well, creating several goal scoring chances early on and Rhys Gowman gave them the lead early in the half following a fast break and good passing from midfield. Whitchurch maintained the pressure but Old Georgians equalised from a penalty corner ten minutes from the break.  A minute before half time Laith El Khatib restored Whitchurch’s lead, deflecting home a cross from the left wing.  In deteriorating weather conditions the tempo of the game dropped in the second period and Whitchurch failed to convert a number of chances to extend their lead.  Old Georgians took the initiative ten minutes from the end, equalising from a penalty corner and then firing home the winner from open play two minutes later.

Whitchurch lost 5-2 at home to Team Bath Buccaneers in an exciting top of the table EHL Conference West clash.  Leaders Bath, in impressive form this season, arrived with a 100% record, but Whitchurch started well, a good interchange of passing leading to Mark Whatling opening the scoring for Whitchurch in the fourth minute. 

In a fast-paced game Whitchurch doubled their lead fifteen minutes later, Jon Collis converting from Whitchurch’s first penalty corner award.  Bath started the second period strongly, and pulled back a goal ten minutes into the half.  Both sides had chances to score in an open game and then Bath turned the game on its head with a burst of three goals in ten minutes, following a Whitchurch yellow card, midway through the half to give them a 4-2 lead.  Whitchurch clawed their way back into the game but failed to convert some good chances and Bath added a further goal late on to run out 5-2 winners and extend their lead at the top of the table.  Despite their defeat Whitchurch remain in second place and look to get back to winning ways away at Old Georgians this coming Sunday. 

After suffering their first league defeat of the season last week, Whitchurch where determined to come out fighting.

Whitchurch A lost 3-1 at home to Robinsons in Premier One of the N4 Hockey League and Whitchurch B drop to second in North Two after their first defeat of the season, 4-3 at Chippenham.  In the same division Whitchurch C lost 3-1 at Devizes A.  Whitchurch E remain front-runners in South Wales Two after a 4-2 win at Abergavenny, Karl Davis (2), Mark Lewis and Jon Wilks the goal-scorers.  Ben Skirrow (3) and Rob Gilbertson (2) shared the goals as Whitchurch G move into second place in South Wales Three with a 5-2 home success against Abergavenny A, whilst Whitchurch H lost 6-1 away to the division leaders Swansea University B.

A goal conceded two minutes from time consigned Whitchurch to a 5-4 defeat at Bournville, seven of the goals coming in an action-packed second period.  Goals from Tom Rowland and Mark Crennan had given Bournville a 2-0 interval lead, and when Stefan Sekula added a third shortly after the restart the home side looked well set for a convincing win. 

Whitchurch, however, had other ideas and in a magnificent fight-back goals from Jon Collis, Martyn White and Mark Whatling brought the scores level going into the last quarter.  In a thrilling climax to the match Chris Graham restored Bournville’s lead only for Jamie Westerman to hit back for Whitchurch’s equaliser two minutes later.  Both sides strived for the winner and it was Bournville who clinched it, Rowland scoring his second of the match from a penalty corner with just two minutes remaining.  It meant a second successive defeat for Whitchurch but they remain in second place in the EHL Conference West table.

Three goals conceded in the last ten minutes consigned battling Whitchurch to a 4-1 defeat at Stourport in their latest EHL Conference West fixture.  Whitchurch, weakened by the absence of four players on International duty, worked hard to contain the lively Stourport forwards in the first period.  Goalkeeper Chris Gierak made some good saves, a tight-knit defence played well to frustrate the home attack and Mark Whatling and Martyn White got through a lot of work in midfield.  Against the general pattern of play Whitchurch took the lead two minutes before the break, Rhys Gowman firing home following a penalty corner. 

Whitchurch held the lead until midway through the second half, David Westhead pulling the home side level with a reverse stick shot in open play.  Whatling almost restored Whitchurch’s lead from a penalty corner shortly afterwards and it seemed Whitchurch had done enough for a draw but in the last ten minutes of the match Andrew Langlands struck twice in three minutes for the home side and Phil Lashford added a late fourth goal as Whitchurch pushed forward.  It was the second defeat of the season for Whitchurch but they remain in second place in the table, six points behind leaders Team Bath Buccaneers and five points clear of third-placed University of Birmingham.

Whitchurch A slip to fifth place in Premier One of the N4 Hockey League after a 5-1 defeat at Cardiff University but Whitchurch B and C continued their winning ways in North Two. Undefeated leaders Whitchurch B beat Cardiff Medicals 4-2 with goals from David Harris, James Hodge, Rhodri Ryland and Alun Welsh whilst Whitchurch C are fifth in the table after a 3-2 success at Team Bath Buccaneers C, Mark Eggar, Dave Joyce and Jon Watts the goal scorers for Whitchurch. 

In the South Wales divisions Whitchurch D lost 2-1 to Llan & Caer A in division one but Whitchurch E remain top of division two, a hat-trick from skipper Matt Rapson helping them to a 7-0 win against Aberystwyth University A.  In division three Whitchurch F lost 1-0 at Abergavenny A, a second-half goal from Russell Gidney gave Whitchurch G a 1-0 success at Llan & Caer B and Tim Savage scored a hat-trick as Whitchurch H beat Bridgend C 6-2.

Whitchurch A move up to fourth place in Premier One of the N4 Hockey League with a well-deserved 4-1 win against Isca, Louis Jones, Rhys Welsh, Rhys Gowman and Kyle Stubley the goal scorers.  Undefeated Whitchurch B are top of North Two after a 6-0 win at Swansea Bay A, Ryan Corner (3), Rhodri Ryland (2) and Alun Welsh scoring the goals.  In the same division a hat-trick from Ben Roberts and two goals from Dave Joyce earned Whitchurch C a 5-3 win against Somerset Gryphons. 

In South Wales division one Whitchurch D lost 4-1 at Cardiff University B, and Whitchurch E lost their unbeaten record but remain top of division two after a 4-3 defeat at Brecon.  In division three goals from Richard Jones, Colin McIlhagge and Julian Halton gave second placed Whitchurch F a 3-0 win over Llan & Caer B and Ben Skirrow (2), Hugh Howells and Rob Gilbertson were the goal scorers as Whitchurch G ran out 4-1 winners against Lampeter University.

Defending Welsh Cup holders dealt Swansea University (current Shield holders) a crushing defeat with a convincing 11-0 victory at King George V playing fields on Sunday, in the Welsh Cup first round.

Hatricks from Potter, Collis and Whatling with Gowman and Fido also chipping in.

Both Whitchurch teams were successful in North Two, Rhodri Ryland scoring a hat trick in Whitchurch B’s 6-0 win against City of Bath A whilst Whitchurch C ran out 5-1 winners at Bristol & West A.   

In South Wales division one Whitchurch D were 8-0 winners against Penarth A, Grant Parker, Jack Pinson and Dave Skirrow all scoring two apiece and Mark Lewis and Jon Wilks also scored two each as Whitchurch E maintained their 100% record in  division two with a 5-2 success against Bridgend B.  In division three Whitchurch F are in second place after a 7-0 win at Lampeter University, Tom Vaal scoring a hat-trick, Ben Skirrow scored twice in Whitchurch G’s 4-2 success at Bridgend C and Duncan Ecclestone hit two goals in Whitchurch H’s 3-3 draw with Gwent B.

Whitchurch earned the bragging rights with a landmark win over Cardiff & UWIC 1st XI.  The victory shows the strength in depth Whitchurch now posses.  Whitchurch A came from behind to beat Cardiff & UWIC 2-1 in Premier One of the N4 Hockey League, Rhys Thomas scoring both Whitchurch goals to earn his side their third win of the campaign.

Many of the 1st Team stayed behind to support their Club mates in what was a rowdy affair in the stands.  This undoubtedly contributed to the temperature of the game, which was as expected quite a physical and bad tempered affair.

This result leaves Cardiff & UWIC off the pace in third spot of the N4 Premier Division 1.  Exeter Uni A lead the way, with Cheltenham in close pursuit.  Whitchurch currently lie in a creditable fifith place.

Whitchurch, second in the table, continued their impressive run with a well-deserved 3-0 win against third placed University of Birmingham in their latest EHL Conference West encounter.  For once Whitchurch started slowly, and it was against the run of play when Jamie Westerman latched on to a reverse stick pass to give Whitchurch the lead after five minutes.  Whitchurch started to pass the ball around well and midway in the half Rhys Gowman made it 2-0 with a well taken goal from a rebound off the Birmingham keeper.  Whitchurch finished the half strongly but did not convert their chances. 

In the second period a strong run by Mark Whatling led to Jon Collis shooting just wide and then keeper Iwan Williams made a fine save to deny the Birmingham forwards.  Whitchurch made the game safe five minutes from the end, a good move between Collis and Westerman was finished well by Gowman for his second and Whitchurch’s third goal of the match to seal a fifth successive win.

Whitchurch climb into 2nd place in the EHL Conference West after a tense 3-2 win at Guildford.  Whitchurch started the game in a positive manner and ex GB goalkeeper Simon Mason was in great form to deny early goal bound efforts from Rhys Gowman and Jamie Westerman.  The Whitchurch pressure told in the ninth minute, Mark Whatling making a fine solo run into the circle and playing in Martyn White to open the scoring.  Duncan Marsh equalised for Guildford against the run of play midway through the half and then the home side took the lead five minutes later, William Blockley converting their first penalty corner. 

Whitchurch regained their momentum and a few minutes before the break a telling pass from Joe Naughalty found Alex Keating who fired home the equaliser.  Whitchurch strove hard for a third goal in the second period but Mason made some fine saves to keep the scores level.  With ten minutes remaining Whitchurch made the breakthrough, White and Louis Jones combined well down the right to create an opening for Westerman to finish well and give Whitchurch the lead.  Whitchurch survived two penalty corners from Guildford in the last thirty seconds to run out 3-2 winners and clinch their fourth successive win.

The eagerly awaited Inter-club match had finally arrived. The first Friday night league match was played in good spirit, in front of a decent vocal crowd, with both teams determined to win. Despite the pre-match hype the game lacked quality from both sides as neither team wanted to make the first mistake.
 
It wasn't until midway through the first half, that a short corner for Whitchurch 4's brought about a straight strike, resulting in a goal for Tom Riley. This seemed to spur Whitchurch 3's into action as they immediately replied with two quick goals; David Harris notching up his third of the season with a replica short corner to that at the other end. The second coming from a large team effort involving a sweeping move from left to right, cutting the 4th team defence in half and giving Rhodri Davies the easiest of tap ins.
 
Half time came and stern dressing down from both captains to suit, as neither team had really excelled. Whitchurch 4's must have listened harder as they began to open up the Whitchurch defence time and again, only to miss a hat full of chances. Their pressure finally paid as a counter attack saw them 2 on 1 with the goal keeper, and equalize.
 
The final 20 minutes of the game where tense with both teams not wanting to lose in front of the adoring fans. With 5 minutes remaining, Whitchurch 3s pressed high and some sloppy passing from the Whitchurch 4s backline gave them the chance they needed. A 2 on 1 breakaway from the 25 yard line, left the Whitchurch 4s goal keeper with no hope and Whitchurch 3s walked the ball into the net.
 
Jubilation for the 3s this time, but unless performances improve, the result may be reversed next time.

Whitchurch made it three wins in a row in the EHL with a convincing 4-1 home success against Havant.  Sound in defence and creative in attack Whitchurch were in confident form and drew first blood after five minutes, Ben Croxall coolly converting a penalty stroke after a good move down the Whitchurch right.  Whitchurch were passing the ball well and dominated the early exchanges, but the visitors gradually came into the game and Whitchurch keeper Iwan Williams had to be alert to clear a goal bound effort midway through the half.  Croxall and Joe Naughalty were causing problems for the Havant defence as Whitchurch sought to extend their advantage and six minutes from the break Whitchurch scored their second goal, strong running from Neil Potter earning a penalty corner which was well converted by Jon Collis. 

Havant started the second period strongly and forced two penalty corners in quick succession, but Whitchurch were dangerous on the break, Rhys Gowman and Jamie Westerman combining well to almost add to the Whitchurch score.  Havant enjoyed good possession but found Jonny Gordon and Richard John in good form at the heart of the Whitchurch defence.  Eight minutes into the half Whitchurch made it 3-0, Collis feeding the ball through to Naughalty who finished well.  In an end to end game Williams was out quickly to smother a Havant attack before Whitchurch made it 4-0 with a fine individual goal from Westerman, who received the ball left of the goal on the edge of the circle and turned to drive the ball home on the reverse.  Havant searched hard for a consolation goal, Williams diving full length to keep out a penalty corner strike and Croxall clearing off the line in another attack but Havant eventually had their reward, scoring from close range five minutes from the end of an entertaining match.

Traditionally, when every Club side wins their game at the weekend the WHC Chairman is obliged to buy a bottle of champagne.  It is not a frequent occurance, but this weekend was nearly one - with only the A Team missing out after being two up.  Every other side won!

Newly promoted Whitchurch A had a win and a defeat in their first matches in Premier One of the N4 Hockey League.  Goals from Gareth Thomas and Rhys Davies gave Whitchurch an early two goal lead against Exeter University A but the visitors fought back well to run out 4-2 winners.  Defences were on top in a hard fought re-arranged match against Bristol University next day but the deadlock was broken in the last quarter, Rhys Davies scoring with a terrific reverse-stick shot to give Whitchurch a 1-0 success. Both Whitchurch B and Whitchurch C had comfortable wins in North Two, Rhodri Ryland (2), Ted Diment, Graham Sisk and Jon Watts scoring for Whitchurch B in their 5-0 win at Somerset Gryphons whilst Dave Joyce scored five and Richard Eaton and Dave Saunders two apiece as Whitchurch C ran out 9-0 winners against visitors Robinsons B. 

In the South Wales divisions a goal from Dave Skirrow was enough to give Whitchurch D a 1-0 win against Cardiff & UWIC D in division one and two goals each for Mark Lewis and Andy Shough gave Whitchurch E a 4-3 win at Swansea Bay D in division two.  In division three Whitchurch F edged out Whitchurch G 3-2 with goals from Gareth Despres, Colin McIlhagge and skipper Martin Church and Tim Savage (5) and Mike Martella (2) were on target in Whitchurch H’s 7-0 win against Llan & Caer B.

A devastating spell of three goals in ten minutes midway through the second period powered Whitchurch to a fine 4-1 win at Plymouth Marjon in their latest EHL encounter.  Whitchurch started the game confidently and Joe Naughalty and Ben Croxall went close to scoring in the opening five minutes.  It was Plymouth who drew first blood, though, ex GB international Calum Giles opening up the Whitchurch defence with a telling pass to the right for Ed Long to open the scoring in the seventh minute.  Whitchurch continued to test the Plymouth defence with some probing passes from Jon Collis and Naughalty in midfield, and Rhys Gowman was a constant threat in the opposing 25.  Ten minutes before the break Whitchurch pulled level, Alex Keating reacting the quickest to score from the rebound after a fine save by the Plymouth keeper. 

Whitchurch continued to dominate and took a decisive grip on the game midway through the second period.  Naughalty put Whitchurch ahead after a great team movement split the home team’s defence and it was Naughalty again seven minutes later who extended his team’s lead with a neat conversion from close range.  Plymouth forced a couple of good saves from goalkeeper Iwan Williams before Adam Barker scored an open play goal to make the game safe for Whitchurch, who have now made it two wins out of three in the new season.

In the N4 Hockey League Whitchurch B made an impressive start to their North Two campaign with a 12-0 win against visitors Bristol & West A.  Rhys Welsh hit four goals, Rhys Davies three and Rhodri Ryland two with Ted Diment, Craig Nevard and Alun Welsh also on target.  Whitchurch C, also in North Two, travelled to Chippenham and a determined defensive display, with keeper Dewi Roblin making some fine saves, earned them a 1-1 draw.  Dan Potts gave Whitchurch the lead which they held until the last quarter of an exciting game.  In South Wales One a good second half performance enabled Whitchurch D to run out 6-2 winners at home to Gwent A.  Grant Parker and Tom Skirrow scored two goals apiece and Glen Henley and Josh Hurford were also on target.

Whitchurch opened their EHL account for the season with a well deserved 4-2 home success against Old Georgians.  Whitchurch opened brightly with Adam Barker going close following a penalty corner and Jamie Westerman hitting a fierce shot just over the bar.  Old Georgians were dangerous on the break and earned a penalty stroke following a penalty corner but Whitchurch keeper and skipper Iwan Williams made a fine save to deny the visitors.  Whitchurch continued to press and took the lead when a long pass out of defence from Jon Collis found Joe Naughalty who combined well with Barker to set up Ben Croxall to fire home the opening goal.  The Whitchurch defence was in confident form and Jonny Gordon brought off a fine tackle to counter a dangerous move from the visitors.  Whitchurch increased their lead midway through the half, Barker capitalising on some confusion in the visitors’ defence to force the ball home.  There was plenty of goalmouth action as Whitchurch sought to take a decisive grip on the game.  Westerman had a snap reverse stick shot well save by the keeper and a fine individual effort by Croxall went wide.  Old Georgians forced two penalty corners in quick succession towards the end of the half, both well defended by Whitchurch. 

The second period opened quietly with Old Georgians coming more into the game and the visitors pulled a goal back midway in the half from a penalty corner.  Whitchurch were stung into action and attacked strongly to put pressure on the visitors’ goal.  Martyn White restored Whitchurch’s two goal lead, hammering home Whitchurch’s third goal after some desperate goalmouth defending by the visitors.  Old Georgians forced a couple of penalty corners before Whitchurch made the game safe; Rhys Gowman found Gareth Thomas with a fine pass from halfway and followed up to fire home the return pass for Whitchurch’s fourth.  Old Georgians pulled a goal back in the last minute but Whitchurch ran out worthy winners of an entertaining game. 

Whitchurch fell to a disappointing 5-2 defeat at newly promoted Fareham in their opening EHL Conference West fixture of the new season.  Goals by James Seagar and Ben Hibberd left Whitchurch 2-0 down after the first quarter.  Jon Collis pulled a goal back before half time with a penalty corner strike but the second period belonged to Fareham who took their chances well to add further goals from Shaun Baker and Alex Bennett and a second from James Seagar before a late consolation goal for Whitchurch from a penalty corner by Joe Naughalty.

Whitchurch 7-0 Robinsons

Whitchurch completed their pre-season fixtures with the rout of Bristol side Robinsons.

In warm conditions Whitchurch took the game to the visitors from the start and were soon two goals to the good.  Robinsons then began to find their feet and become used to the pace of the game, but still found it difficult to penetrate the Whitchurch midfield.

Robinsons were relagetd from the EHL two seasons ago and look to have lost some influential players - something of an inevitability.  They appear to still be rebuilding their squad as they take on Cardiff & UWIC and Firebrands this season in the West Prem - both of whom were relegated from the EHL last season.

Whitchurch took their foot off the gas in the fist half and lost some of their initial fluidity.  But after a positive chat at half time they came out all guns blazing, pepepring the Robinsons goal and being denied by the frame of the goal and some good fortune.

When they did break through in the second period it was down to some excellent interchange play, resulting in a penalty corner and a slick routine for Joe Naughalty to despatch.  Robinsons resolve seemed to go after this and a series of unforced errors let Whitchurch dominate proceedings and reap rewards.

Whitchurch looked convincing against a weaker opposition, but they will have to step things up next week when they face newly promoted Fareham in the opening EHL West game of the seaon, down on the south coast.

Whitchurch squad

Iwan Williams, Kam Yin Boey, Jonny Gordon, Alex Keating, Jon Collis, Jamie Westerman, Martyn White, Ben Croxall, Laith El Khatib, Joe Naughalty, Mark Whatling, Doug Young, Rhys Thomas

Whitchurch 1-1 Cardiff & UWIC (3-1 APS)

Whitchurch 3-3 Cardiff & UWIC (0-3 APS)

Whitchurch have retained their Welsh Cup title, beating Cardiff & UWIC in the Final on penalty strokes after a 1-1 draw following extra time.  In a close and exciting match Jon Collis converted a penalty corner to put Whitchurch ahead with just twelve minutes remaining, but the lead was short-lived, Joe Naughalty following up a penalty corner to equalise for Cardiff & UWIC and take the game into extra time.  With no further score the outcome was decided by penalty strokes, Whitchurch keeper and skipper Iwan Williams making two fine saves to help his team to a 3-1 win on penalties.  The Welsh Cup success also means that Whitchurch automatically qualify as the first-ranked team for the Eurohockey Club tournament next season. 

The two clubs also met earlier in the Welsh 2nd XI Cup Final, which Cardiff & UWIC won on penalty strokes after a 3-3 draw following extra time.  Rhys Thomas and Doug Young for Whitchurch and Ollie Dear and Robin Lovegrove for Cardiff & UWIC were the goal scorers in the 2-2 draw at normal time.  Thomas put Whitchurch ahead in the second period of extra time but a late equaliser from Jay Wilyman took the game to penalties and a 3-0 success for Cardiff & UWIC.

Whitchurch finished in 8th place in the Slazenger EHL Conference West division after a narrow 2-1 defeat at Birmingham University.  With both sides eager to attack there was plenty of goalmouth action at both ends in an entertaining match.  The students started brightly, and Jonny Gordon made a fine clearance in the circle before Jon Collis and Alex Keating combined well to create a chance for Rhys Thomas, whose close range shot was smothered by the Birmingham keeper. 

Mark Whatling was in outstanding form in the Whitchurch midfield, and a strong run from him led to Whitchurch’s first penalty corner, which was well saved by the keeper.  In a free-flowing game the University hit a good chance wide before Whatling put Rhys Gowman in to force another save from the keeper.  Whitchurch were enjoying good possession without being able to make the breakthrough and the half ended with Birmingham forcing their first penalty corner, well saved by Chris Gierak in the Whitchurch goal.  The deadlock was broken in the first minute of the second period, Neil Potter feeding Jamie Westerman who fired home powerfully to put Whitchurch ahead. 

Whitchurch almost increased their lead from a well-worked penalty corner before Birmingham struck back in decisive fashion, danger man Alex Penney converting two penalty corners in a ten minute period to give his side the lead with twenty minutes remaining.  There was no further score but plenty of action as Whitchurch pushed forward in search of an equaliser and the University went close to scoring on the counter-attack.

A last minute penalty corner strike by Jon Collis gave Whitchurch a dramatic and vital 6-5 win against visitors Stourport in an enthralling Slazenger EHL contest.  Collis converted all three of the penalty corners awarded to Whitchurch in the match and, with results elsewhere in their favour, the win takes Whitchurch clear of the relegation places with one match remaining. 

The first half was full of goalmouth action as Whitchurch worked hard to contain the skilful Stourport attack and the Stourport defence was troubled by a number of incisive Whitchurch breaks.  Collis converted his first penalty corner four minutes into the game to put Whitchurch ahead but Stourport were looking dangerous, forcing two penalty corners of their own and firing wide when well placed.  A great run from midfield by Mark Whatling set up a scoring chance for Whitchurch but Stourport were looking good in attack and their pressure paid off midway through the half with two open play goals in three minutes from their danger man Phil Lashford. 

Whitchurch skipper and keeper Iwan Williams brought off two fine reflex saves to deny Lashford again before Whitchurch returned to the attack.  Four minutes from half-time Jamie Westerman fired home the equaliser after a fine through ball from Collis only for Chris Hill to restore Stourport’s lead two minutes later.  Their lead lasted just one minute, Collis firing home his second penalty corner following another strong run from Whatling to make the score 3-3 at the interval. 

The non-stop action continued in the second period, with both sides striving to take a hold on the match.  Chris Griffiths restored Stourport’s lead from a penalty corner strike three minutes into the half but Whitchurch struck back three minutes later, Neil Potter feeding Westerman down the left and his fine cross was expertly deflected into goal by Laith El Khatib.  Again Stourport took the lead, Aden Symonds scoring in open play a quarter of an hour into the half, and again Whitchurch struck back immediately, Whatling and Westerman combining well to put Alex Keating through to make the score 5-5.  The game seemed to be heading for a draw until the last minute, when a fine run on the left by Rhys Gowman gained a penalty corner which Collis fired into the net to give Whitchurch a hard-earned win.

Whitchurch slipped closer to the relegation zone with a disappointing 1-0 defeat at Firebrands, who lay one place below them in the Slazenger EHL Conference West table.  With so much at stake for both sides it was a tense match with defences on top and few goal scoring chances created.  Whitchurch, on the back of a fine run of form, were nevertheless slow to find their rhythm and Firebrands dominated the opening period with slick passing and running. 

The Bristol club opened the scoring after ten minutes, a snap shot from Marc Patrick hitting a post and then rebounding into goal off a defender’s foot.  Stung into action, Whitchurch responded well and Laith El Khatib went close with a first-time shot following good work by Jon Collis down the left.  Whitchurch were establishing good possession, with Mark Whatling testing the Firebrand’s defence with strong running from midfield. 

Whitchurch should have levelled the scores in the first period, El Khatib hitting the post from a penalty stroke and the Firebrands keeper saving well from a fierce Neil Potter effort.  Whitchurch put a huge effort into the second period and enjoyed a lot of the ball without creating any clear-cut openings against a well-organised defence.  The Firebrands forwards were dangerous on the break, and Whitchurch keeper Iwan Williams was off his line quickly to make a fine save from a one on one situation.  A penalty corner in the last minute gave Whitchurch a chance to salvage a point, but the goal-bound shot was well cleared off the line by the Firebrands defence.  

Whitchurch’s next match is a crucial encounter with Cardiff & Uwic this coming Saturday (1.30 start at W.I.S.)

Whitchurch A extended their lead at the top of Premier Two of the West of England & South Wales League to five points with a 5-1 home win against Yeovil & Sherborne.  Rhys Thomas grabbed two goals and Adam Barker, Simon Jeeves and Doug Young were also on target.  Next day holders Whitchurch A secured their place in this year’s Welsh 2nd XI Cup Final with a 3-1 win against Swansea Bay A, skipper Graham Charlesworth leading the way with two goals and Adam Unitt adding the other.  Rhys Davies (2), Craig Nevard and Dave Joyce were the goal scorers for Whitchurch B in a narrow 5-4 defeat at Cirencester in North One, but leaders Whitchurch C kept on course for promotion from the Severn division after a 3-2 win against Llan & Caer, Dan Potts (2) and Adam Place the goal scorers.  In the South Wales area Whitchurch D went down 7-3 at Swansea Bay C and Whitchurch E lost 3-0 at home to Swansea University A in division one, and Stuart Allen scored for Whitchurch G in a 2-1 defeat at Brecon in division three.

In the West of England & South Wales League two goals apiece from Adam Barker and George Oram helped Premier Two leaders Whitchurch A overcome an early two goal deficit to run out 6-2 winners against visitors Swindon.  In North One Alun Welsh’s second goal of the game two minutes from the end gave Whitchurch B an exciting 4-3 win at Somerset Gryphons, Ted Diment and Adam Unitt the other goal scorers.  Whitchurch C remain three points clear at the top of the Severn division after a 3-0 win at Aberystwyth University, Dan Potts (2) and Tom Riley on target.  Dave Skirrow scored six goals and David Evans four as Whitchurch D gained an emphatic 10-2 success against Abergavenny in South Wales One, whilst Whitchurch E went down 1-0 at Newport.  In South Wales Three goals from Matt Gray (2), Dave Chamberlain, Martin Church and James Gray gave Whitchurch F a 5-1 win at Abergavenny A, and Whitchurch G beat visitors Lampeter University 4-2, Stuart Allen (2), Ben Skirrow and Andrew Shough on target.

A flurry of goals late in the second half gave Whitchurch a convincing and well-deserved victory against fourth placed Team Bath Buccaneers.  It was Whitchurch’s third win in the last four Slazenger EHL matches, all of which have been against the leading clubs in the division. 

Bath opened strongly, stretching the Whitchurch defence in the first ten minutes but creating just the single penalty corner chance in this period. Whitchurch gradually came into the game and Rhys Thomas forced a good save from the visitor’s keeper after ten minutes.  Iwan Williams saved a snap shot from Bath midway through the half but Whitchurch were gaining in confidence as the half wore on, with Jamie Westerman linking well in midfield and Thomas having an outstanding game in attack.  Thomas almost forced the ball home on the half hour and then Neil Potter gained Whitchurch’s first penalty corner, which Laith El Khatib fired just wide of the post.  The half ended with Whitchurch unlucky not to score, Alex Keating hitting the bar from another penalty corner. 

Whitchurch started the second half impressively, Thomas creating a good goal scoring opportunity from a run down the right and ten minutes into the half Whitchurch gained another penalty corner chance.  Bath were dangerous on the break, and Keating made a good goal line tackle from a penalty corner and Jon Collis cleared well in the circle from a dangerous Bath move.  The deadlock was broken midway through the half.  A fine cross field ball from Rhys Gowman picked out El Khatib who forced the ball home from close range.  Westerman shot just wide from an El Khatib pass and then Bath missed a penalty corner chance before Whitchurch made the game safe on the hour with a burst of three goals in five minutes. 

A fine pass from Doug Young found Thomas who netted from close range to make it 2-0 and three minutes later a terrific bout of inter passing down the right opened up the visitor’s defence for Young to coolly beat the oncoming keeper and take the game out of Bath’s reach.  One minute later Young latched onto a through ball to neatly steer in Whitchurch’s fourth goal and seal an impressive all-round team performance.

Whitchurch A maintained their fine form at the top of Premier Two of the West of England & South Wales league with a hard-earned 3-2 win against visitors Team Bath Buccs B.  Both sides looked to attack in an open game, and it was Whitchurch who struck first, Doug Young converting a well-worked move.  The visitors levelled before half time but Whitchurch restored their lead in the second half, Young scoring his second of the game from a penalty corner.  In an exciting finish Bath equalised with two minutes remaining but in the dying seconds Whitchurch gained a penalty corner and Adam Barker rifled home the winner to leave Whitchurch six points clear at the top of the division.  Whitchurch B went down 6-1 at Robinsons B in North One, Adam Unitt the goalscorer, whilst a second half goal from Tom Riley was enough to give leaders Whitchurch C a 1-0 win at Gloucester City B in the Severn division. 

In South Wales One goals from Mike Despres and Phil Graham gave Whitchurch E a 2-0 lead at Abergavenny but the home side hit back to force a 2-2 draw.  In South Wales Three Whitchurch F and Whitchurch G drew 1-1, Matt Gray giving Whitchurch F a 1-0 lead at half-time with Andrew Shough equalising in the second period. 

On Sunday Rhys Thomas scored four and Rhys Davies, Tom Harries and Doug Young two apiece as holders Whitchurch A progressed into the semi-finals of the Welsh 2nd 
XI Cup with a 13-0 win against Cardiff Medicals A.

Whitchurch resume their Slazenger EHL programme this Sunday with a home match against Bournville (1.30 start at W.I.S.).

Leaders Whitchurch A resumed their Premier Two programme in the West of England & South Wales League with a well-earned 2-2 draw away to close challengers Firebrands A.  Whitchurch got off to a flying start, skipper Graham Charlesworth converting a penalty corner early in the game and they extended their lead further in the half with a well-worked individual goal, Charlesworth again the scorer.  Firebrands though turned on the pressure in the second period, pulling a goal back from a penalty corner and then firing home an equaliser with just two minutes remaining. The draw puts Whitchurch three points ahead of second placed Truro, who lost at Robinsons A.  Whitchurch B went down 8-1 at home to high-flying Cheltenham A in North One, Alun Welsh on target, whilst Whitchurch C moved to the top of the Severn division table after a 3-0 win against Cardiff & Uwic B, Mark Eggar, Mark Lewis and Dave Saunders their goalscorers.  

In South Wales division one Whitchurch D drew 1-1 at Swansea Bay B.  Matt Thomas put Whitchurch D 1-0 up, a lead they held until a last minute equaliser from the home side.  Whitchurch E put up a great fight against promotion candidates Pembroke County but eventually went down 5-3, Mike Despres, skipper Matt Rapson and Jon Wilks the goalscorers.  

In the Welsh Cup holders Whitchurch booked their place in the semi-finals with an 8-1 win against Cardiff Medicals.  Doug Young scored a hat trick with further goals from Chris Banning, Neil Potter, Rhys Thomas, Jamie Westerman and Mark Whatling.

Whitchurch won the Team Bath Sitec tournament on Sunday the 14th. This is the first time a Welsh team has ever won this tournament - not bad considering this was our first attempt. A number of the competing sides are preparing for the English national league indoor season.

Results

• Whitchurch 9-1 Yate
• Stroud 2-4 Whitchurch
• Robinsons 3-4 Whitchurch (cross over game)
• Team Bath 2-2 Whitchurch

Squad:

• Chris Gierak, Jonny Gordon, Kyle Stubley, Ben Croxall, Doug Young, Simon Geeves, Nazir Mohamed, Tyrone Moore

Well done boys!

Top of the Table Whitchurch A scored two late goals to gain a hard-fought 4-3 win over visitors Robinsons A in Premier Two of the West of England and South Wales league. Whitchurch started the game well, but were unable to convert their chances and it was Robinsons who opened the scoring from a breakaway goal. The experienced Robinsons side then extended their lead from a well-worked penalty corner before Tim Hingston pulled a goal back for Whitchurch just before half-time from a penalty corner. Skipper Graham Charlesworth rounded off a good move early in the second half to bring Whitchurch level but Robinsons restored their lead from another penalty corner. In an exciting finale Adam Barker netted to bring the scores level and then Rhys Gowman fired home a last minute winner for Whitchurch. Whitchurch B lost 6-2 at Lydney in North One, skipper Dave Joyce and Martin Church on target, and Whitchurch C went down 4-1 at Bridgend A in the Severn division, Dave Saunders the Whitchurch goalscorer.

In South Wales division one Morgan Harries and Dave Skirrow were on target for Whitchurch D in a 2-2 draw against Swansea University A but Whitchurch E lost 4-3 to Cardiff University C, Matthew Rapson, Jon Wilks and Rob Williams the goalscorers. Whitchurch G beat Neath A 3-1 in a friendly, Tim Savage (2) and Malcolm May on target.