MATCH REPORTS
2009/2010 SEASON
Division 3 Tournament - Kings Lynn - Sunday 3rd January 2010
Team: Eddie Mount(GK), James Neville (Capt), Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Emily Rawlinson
With Christmas well behind us it was time to resume the hockey season and for our first outing of the year we were off to Kings Lynn. Indeed Kings Lynn themselves were our first opposition. Unfortunately we failed to pose any opposition to them for at least 20 minutes as once again cold start, first match nerves, call it what you like we suffered it. This affliction lasted until about the last ten minutes when all of a sudden, and as if by magic we seemed to wake up and take control of the game, clawing our way back from a 3-0 deficit to finish 3-2 (James 2). There is very little more to say, the final ten minutes we played very well and battled hard, the first thirty minutes I really would rather forget!
Our second game saw us take on Colchester for a second time this season. This time we picked up from where we left off and took the game straight to them. Whilst we don’t have the strength to match the older players our speed, fitness and stamina was the telling factor in this game as we carved open opportunity after opportunity now moving the ball around as well as we can. This type of game gives everybody an opportunity for a little more time on the ball than they are used to which allowed everybody to play with confidence resulting in a sounding 13-2 victory (Fred 4, James 4, Scott 3, Becca 2).
Our final game turned out to be a friendly against Peterborough. Whilst we were assured of the points both teams wanted the moral victory and that was evident right from the off. Whilst I did not see every match I have no doubt that this was the game of the day. A first class game of Roller Hockey and a credit to this league, for during the entire game both teams attacked with full commitment when in possession of the ball. Peterborough opened the scoring, we equalised, Peterborough scored again, we equalised, goals being scored at both ends of high quality mostly from great passing moves. Despite running out 5-3 losers (Fred 1, Scott 1, Emily 1) the indication for me on how this team is starting to gel was the most satisfying. Special praise in this game must go to Becca who followed very clear instructions and man marked Peterborough’s former England striker virtually eliminating him from the game.
Player of the tournament goes to Becca.
Well Done and well played.
Mike.
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Schoolboy’s Tournament - SECHRA - Sunday 13th December 2009
Team: Kasia Parfitt (GK), James Neville (Capt), Rees Parfitt, Fred McCann, Rebecca Sharpe, Emily Rawlinson, Eddie Mount
Mad Dogs and Englishmen! The thought crossed my mind as we travelled down to a very cold and windy Herne Bay Pier to begin this season’s SECHRA adventure, this time at Schoolboy’s level. First up were East Grinstead who unbelievably, with only 50 seconds on the clock, stood arguing with the referee while, totally unopposed, James took an indirect free hit from the corner of the box passing to Fred who buried it to open our account. Despite our early lead we still seemed to be struggling to keep possession and pass the ball confidently resulting in East Grinstead equalising and then taking the lead. This seemed to spark us into life as we responded, firstly with an equaliser from James followed by a cracking finish from Ed Mount making his outfield debut for us taking us in at half time 3-2 up. The start of the second half saw us slip back to our old ways as once again we began to struggle to find consistent form as we fell behind from two quick goals. This game seemed destined to ebb and flow as we once again found some form to pull level setting up a cracking finale. The game stayed level until the final few minutes where we conceded two cheap goals in less than a minute but this time there was no way back as we finished on the wrong side of a 6-4 result (Fred 2, James 1, Eddie 1).
Our second and final match at the Pier pitched us against HBU, although capable, a very young side who tried always to play good hockey but were never really a match against our stronger players. With their goalkeeper in good form we closed at half time 4-1 up. The second half was mostly one way traffic as their young legs tired allowing us to score six more goals running out comfortable 9-1 winners (Emily 3, Eddie 3, Fred 2, James 1).
Our next port of call was a twenty minute drive away as we were very kindly invited to participate in a friendly at Faversham against the newly formed RHC Invicta Schoolboy’s team. Although a newly formed club we were greeted by some familiar and friendly faces. This was going to be something quite different as we faced a team containing several top end and classy players. They say in Roller Hockey you can get dragged down to your oppositions level but for me this works both ways as we raised our game. Bearing in mind we had already played twice our team excelled themselves as we not only held a 0-0 score line for the first ten minutes but created numerous opportunities of our own. It is often the polite thing to say everybody has played very well but this was truly the case today with Kasia’s resilience in goal and every outfield player putting in overtime with their work rate. Inevitably we simply ran out of steam as we finished this forty minute game with a 9-0 loss. However, everybody without exception took something from this game as we left with our heads held high and smiles on our faces. Thank you RHC Invicta for your hospitality.
Thanks to all the players, Ric for referring and our travelling supporters Michaela and Justin.
Man/Ladies of the match goes to Becca and Emily for their great work rate and for what looked like the beginning of a formidable partnership!
Thank You
Mike
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Inters (Div 2) - CRC - Saturday 12 December 2009
The second outing for this team was our home tournament at CRC.
Our first match was against Letchworth so we had to be sharp from the outset. Maia, (Our player of the day), was given a man marking role which she carried out to perfection keeping their main threat Adam, down to a few chances. A good solid start saw us go in at half-time 4-1 up. An even second half with 4 goals shared between the teams saw Cottenham get off to a good start to the tournament with a 6-3 win. Scorers were Harry Parfitt (2), Will (2) Tom & Rees.
Up next were Colchester and we started fast & furious with Nat Johnson scoring in the first 18 seconds. Nat scored 3 of the next 5 goals that came in the first 4 minutes of the match as we eased into our stride with the half-time score sitting at 8-2. Our main aim of the second half was to try and get Harry D on the score sheet. The players on the rink responded fantastically and the ball retention & passing by the outfield players was fantastic. Harry had a few chances, the best of which hit the post but it wasn’t to be. However the team proved that given the right direction, they could perform very well. Credit should go to Kasia in this second half as she was fully aware that she would be exposed due to our tactics and she played her part fully in conceding a solitary goal with the final score finishing 9-3. Scorers were Nathaniel (4), Harry P (3), Tom & Maia.
The third game of our tournament saw us face Ely who had played well for their first 2 wins of the tournament. We started quickly again with Will scoring in the first minute and this was to be our game of the tournament. At 3-0 up at half time, we were comfortable so after a slight tactical change for the second half it all came together. All I can say about this game is that as a team we flourished and played so sublimely that we took Ely apart. We pushed forward and played 90% of this match in Ely’s half. The passing between players including some one touch stuff sometimes left Ely wondering where the ball had gone. The final score of 10-1, goals were scored by Will (5), Maia (3) & Harry P (2).
The final game against Bury and we were down a player as Tom had left due to illness. Nat & Harry Duckworth were given the whole match as a reward for the earlier efforts in the tournament. The team were now showing some signs of tiredness & complacency having played hard all day and thought they were finishing with their easiest match. However at half time with the score was a disappointing 1-1 with the only goal coming from Rees. The start of the second half saw the team respond well with Rees, Will & Harry Parfitt all scoring to give us a goal advantage to play with. The only let down was the breakaway goal that was scored by Bury towards the end of the match which finished 4 - 2 in our favour.
We had played our home tournament and came away with the best possible result of 4 wins from 4 games, which was the target set at the start of the tournament.
With little individualism shown there was a massive improvement in team play from our first tournament.
Two very big plus points from today were:
1. Goals were coming from all players which shows that as a team we can switch things tactically and still be comfortable.
2. ALL the players and coaches went home with big smiles on their faces.
Rik-Manager
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Division 3 Tournament - Manningtree - Sunday 1st November 2009
Team: Eddie Mount(GK), James Neville (Capt), Jordan Tomalin, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Emily Rawlinson, Ashley Barton
Our second tournament of the Division 3 season took us to Manningtree for Colchester’s home tournament. Norwich were our first opponents, a stronger and much more organised team than we had met before. Jump leads should have been the order of the day as once again we got off to a stuttering start. We seemed second to everything as we struggled to hold the ball and develop an attack. At 3-0 down I thought we were dead and buried until Emily’s goal just before the break seemed to do the trick. The second half swung the other way as we sorted ourselves out bombarding the Norwich goal. It was all Cottenham now as, with goals from James and Ashley, we were all square with two minutes to go. Then one moment of poor concentration and marking compounded with pushing too hard for a win allowed one final Norwich attack and goal. Gut wrenching indeed, this was definitely a game of two halves and a big lesson learned that when you work so hard for something as we did in the second half don’t throw it away so cheaply. Final score Cottenham 3 - Norwich 4.
Next up were King’s Lynn, again a strengthened side, this time we started much better passing and moving well, testing the Lynn keeper on numerous occasions, but again our finishing letting us down. At this level not all the players we meet have our legs but some are clever enough to shoot around our defenders blinding the keeper and catching us out. This we suffered on more than one occasion unbelievably leaving us 3-1 down at half time. The second half was much as before with us controlling the game more and more pushing them back for great lengths of time. Once we took control we relaxed and as we relaxed the goals came, five more in fact. This time we held firm for the last couple of minutes marking tight when defending and holding possession when running down the clock, 6-5 the final score (James 3, Ashley 2, Fred 1).
Our last game pitched us against the home side, Colchester. This time there was no messing, we attacked them for almost 40 minutes solid,we were 5-2 up at half time and 11-3 the final score (Scott 3, Fred 3, Ashley 2, James 2, Emily 1). A good final game of the day, competitive and played in the right spirit but always with only one outcome. It is always easy to find criticism in our play but we must never forget our team in made up of entirely 13,14 & 15 year olds who played at times some first class hockey against teams of primarily adults and came away with two wins and a defeat by one goal. Very well done and thanks for a very satisfying day.
Man of the tournament goes to everybody for a wonderful team spirit!
Mike
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Schoolboy’s Tournament - Soham - Sunday 25th October 2009
Team: Eddie Mount(GK), James Neville (Capt), Rees Parfitt, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Daniel Pembrey, Seif Nassir-Ali, Ashley Barton
Our opening game was against Norwich, this was always going to be our easiest game of the day. A bright start with some decent passing and attacking moves gave us the lions share of the opening exchanges. After Scott’s opening goal we fully settled down to our open flowing game, 7-0 a very comfortable half time score. The second half saw us press even harder as Norwich legs tired. With our big squad we were able to rotate players to keep fresh legs on the rink. Nine more goals gave us a flattering 16-0 victory at the final whistle (Scott 4, James 4, Ashley 2, Seif 2, Fred 2, Daniel 2).
Second game of the day for us was Peterborough, a big physical side. The game took off right from the whistle with both sides creating opportunities. Our man to man marking held firm for a good ten minutes until finally Peterborough broke us down. A second followed shortly as we closed at the break 2-0 down. The start of the second half we were a man down due to James’ blue card at the end of the first half, Fred, Scott and Becca held firm for 2 minutes without conceding, no mean achievement for three Intermediates against some top end Schoolboys. The final score in this game was 6-0 but I felt we created enough good opportunities to know with a little bit more luck this game could have been a lot closer.
Bury were our final opponents, three goals down in the first two minutes is not the kind of start we wanted but taking this into account the 5-1 half time score line was very respectable. We had held Bury for long periods of the game and created many good opportunities including Daniel’s great finish. The second half was the same story, periods of great hockey from us blended with defensive suicide and poor concentration. Ashley’s brilliant solo effort gave us something to cheer about as we were finally defeated 11-2. While we really don’t expect to beat this team yet, all will know we are closing the gap with great chunks of the match becoming more competitive each time we play. I was very proud of everyone on Sunday and although the mistakes were obvious for all to see there was so much positive to take away. (Daniel 1, Ashley 1).
Man of the tournament goes to Ashley Barton.
Well Done
Mike
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Under 11’s - Cambridge / Burwell - Saturday 24th October 2009
First game was Kings Lynn B, this was a friendly which made it a nice warm up game for the team as our games were only going to get harder throughout the day. We started off half asleep but soon warmed up with a good performance all round with our keeper making some good saves and a strong team effort in attack, finally winning 13-0.
Second up were Ely a very good team whom we knew would not be easy. We started off well scoring first, however, the game was evenly matched with both teams having good chances although Ely had the upper hand beating us by 2 goals. Excellent play from the team a result of 6-8 is nothing to be ashamed of.
Our last game was against Cambridge the game we expected to lose heavily. A fantastic start from the team the best quality of play I have seen them play, gratitude to the whole team who put a lot of effort in. However a couple of refereeing errors left us in trouble particularly when one of our players fell injured and the referee allowed the game to carry on letting Cambridge catch us out. The team became more unsettled after another off the ball incident which gave Cambridge the advantage they needed to win. Final score 8-7 to Cambridge. Unfortunate for the team but I really felt that the quality of our play was fantastic throughout. Well done everyone.
James
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Inters (Div 2) - Burwell - 10 October 2009
The first tournament of the season saw the Inters Division 2 team at Burwell.
Facing Ely in the first game, things got off to a bad start with Ely scoring first. Harry Parfitt soon equalised to bring things back on even terms. Cottenham were still not settled and Ely put a nice pass through the defence to take a 2-1 lead, which wasn’t to last long as Harry again scored for a 2-2 half time score line.
The second half a saw some good play from both teams as neither team wanted to lose, but as the game went on Cottenham started to impose themselves and finally ran out 5-3 winners with goals from Tom Barry & Will Rawlinson (2).
King’s Lynn were our next opponents and we were unfortunate to fall behind to an innocuous goal that somehow looped into the goal. Cottenham battled on but just couldn’t find the rhythm that had got them past Ely. After losing another goal before half time we managed to hold out in the second half and although we created the opportunities, the King’s Lynn goalkeeper just kept us out and we finally lost 2-0
Bury next and although this game was classed as a friendly with Cottenham automatically being awarded the points, it wasn’t the way we wanted them. Harry Duckworth & Nat Johnson were given the run of the first half along with Will Rawlinson & Tom Barry and the younger players showed their worth as at half time the score was only 2-0 to Bury. The more experienced players were introduced into the game and soon Tom had pulled a goal back. It became a fingernail-biting affair when with only 4 seconds on the clock, a great pass to the back post saw Harry Parfitt save the game.
The last game of the day saw us playing Letchworth. It was an amazing sight to see as from nowhere the 4 pitch players just passed the ball amongst themselves and created goals. We suddenly found ourselves 7-1 up and it wasn’t even half-time! At this point it was decided to use the opportunity those newer players some useful pitch time and when half time came we were sitting pretty at 7-3. In the second half Letchworth woke up, especially Adam and shots came raining in from everywhere and the pressure was on. We had our original starting four players on the pitch to see out the end of the game and we held on for a mighty 8-7 win. Goals coming from Tom, Harry P, Maia, Will (2) & Rees(3).
I would like to say that I was impressed at how the team came together and certainly how the more experienced Inters players helped the newer players talking to them and guiding them. As the goals were shared around, it proved that this was a team effort all round and let us hope that we can build on what I believe was a pretty good start.
Ric
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Division 3 Tournament - Wymondham - Sunday 4th October 2009
Team: Eddie Mount(GK), James Neville (Capt), Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Daniel Pembrey, Ashley Barton
On Sunday 4th October a new chapter was opened in our club’s history, its first senior league tournament. The fact that we have no senior players is just a minor detail as we fielded our young side. Peterborough, our first opponents and despite them also fielding a mostly young team it was their father figure player/manager that gave us the biggest headache. His flick shots and pin point passing caused havoc with us as we failed to get to grips with him in the first half. In the second half we began to cope much better as we adapted to a totally different style of play, a measure to the whole team’s desire to learn and slowly but surely we clawed our way back into the game earning a deserving 4-4 draw.
Our second game was against King’s Lynn, this time we started better, playing more of our own passing game. We seemed more at home as time passed growing in confidence. We may still have a lot to learn but one thing for sure is that we are fit and this for me was the main difference as King’s Lynn ran out of ideas and steam as we carried out wave after wave of attacks on their goal running out worthy 11-4 winners.
By the time we reached the last game we were really buzzing and although Norwich posed good opposition we were learning to be patient in our play, picking our opportunities to pressurise them for the ball, winning the ball and then counter attacking to good effect. Once again our fitness showed through as at times towards the latter stages we barely let them out of their own half. This was a good display of mature hockey from our young team weighing up the opposition and playing to their weaknesses and our strengths. Our hard work and effort paid off with an excellent 8-3 victory. A good day’s hockey with three great results.
Man of the tournament goes to Daniel Pembrey.
Well Done and well played.
Mike
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Schoolboys Home Tournament - CRC - Saturday 26th September 2009
Team: Matt Stearn (GK), Rees Parfitt, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, James Neville (Capt), Daniel Pembrey, Seif Nassir-Ali, Eddie Mount (GK)
The opening Schoolboy’s tournament and indeed our first ever, was Cottenham’s home tournament. An air of excitement and a journey into the unknown awaited us. Our first match pitched us against Ely. The game started brightly with plenty of Cottenham pressure resulting in an opening goal from Dan Pembrey. More Cottenham pressure and a brace from Scott took us in 3-0 at half time. The second half started well for us as we settled into Schoolboy hockey. Despite conceding a couple, further goals from Scott and two from the new boy, Seif saw us finish worthy 6-2 winners (Scott 3, Seif 2, Daniel 1).
Our second game was against Bury, probably the strongest team at this level in the country. These days we sit back for nobody and took the game to Bury. Despite conceding 8 goals our attacking strategy paid off with two goals from Seif as we closed at half time 8-2 down. The second half turned out to be one of the most remarkable team performances produced by this club as we battled on for a full 20 minutes creating numerous scoring opportunities but more importantly not conceding another goal. A brilliant team performance and an outstanding display between the sticks from Ed Mount, 8-2 the final score (Seif 2).
Next up were King’s Lynn, we could do well here I thought, but unfortunately we forgot how to mark players and we forgot how to pass, once again consistency our problem as we made everything hard work and inevitably fell behind. Despite a slight improvement in our play and a couple of goals from Dan, we closed 4-2 down at half time. The second half saw us pick up the game and get back to somewhere near form. When we started to pass we started to score. Despite conceding again, goals from Fred, Seif and Scott and a final equaliser from Seif with just over a minute on the clock remaining gave us a point with a thrilling second half fight back, 6-6 the final score (Daniel 2, Seif 2, Scott 1, Fred 1).
Our final game and indeed the last game of the day was against Bury Ladies. This game we dominated possession with vast periods of the game played in Bury’s half. A 5-1 win rounded off a very good day and a great start for the club at this level.
Player of the tournament goes to Eddie Mount
Well Done
Mike
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2008/2009 SEASON
SECHRA - Intermediates Home Tournament - Saturday 11th July 2009
Team: Kasia Parfitt (GK), James Neville (Capt), Daniel Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt, Lucas Pembrey
Our last hockey tournament of the season was upon us, our team of under 15’s who had travelled down south on three occasions to take part in the SECHRA under 15’s league were at Cambridge Regional College for their home tournament to complete their fixtures. Unfortunately East Grinstead had withdrawn leaving us one team down but such is the strength and depth in the club we put out a full second team of entirely Cottenham players to fulfil a six match format.
Our first game saw us play HBU, 6-1 we had lost on our last meeting, today had to be different. We started strong and with only 2½ minutes gone Scott threaded a ball around their keeper putting us 1 up. Shortly after James added a second as we closed at half time 2-0 up, we were playing well with everybody on form. The second half was much the same as we powered on. Despite having much of the play HBU broke through on occasions but only to find our keeper standing firm making a string of commanding saves. A brace from James early on in the second half sealed the victory as we ran out comfortable 4-0 winners. (S Neville 1, J Neville 3).
Our second game pitched us against our own club mates of Cottenham B. Again a great start from Cottenham A with only 1½ minutes on the clock, James opened the scoring, an exciting and flowing game followed with Daniel adding a second in the 5th minute. Then, and without doubt the biggest cheer of the day, a goal from Cottenham A’s debutant, 10 year old Lucas Pembrey making it 3-0. Tom Barry pulled one back for Cottenham B with a cracking finish then scored an own goal for Cottenham A in the 12th minute taking us in at half time 4-1 up. The game was nicely balanced at the start of the second half and with opportunities at both ends. This continued until the 7th and 8th minute when Rees and Becca each scored to bring the final score to 6-1 (J Neville 1, D Pembrey 1, L Pembrey 1, Parfitt 1, Sharpe 1, OG 1).
Our final game was against Herne Bay, the game started pretty even with both teams testing the water in the opening exchanges. As the game progressed we became stronger with Daniel opening the scoring in the 6th minute. From then on it was one way traffic through to half time with us adding 5 more without reply. The second half saw us shoot out of the starting blocks as we added two more in the opening minute. With the game won we eased up conceding twice as we rotated the team, 8-2 the final score (D Pembrey 3, McCann 2, J Neville 2, S Neville 1).
A great way to end our season with a total of 17 of our players in action enjoying a great days hockey . Well Done and Thanks
Mike
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Minors Conference Finals - Sunday 5th July 2009
Team: Oliver Dawes(GK), Scott Neville (Capt), Nicolas Pembrey, Fred McCann, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt, Tom Barry
The conference final was the last time this team would play together at Minors level, on the back of our EC cup victory our confidence was high.
Our first game was against HBU and as so many times this season a poor start saw us 3-0 down in the first couple of minutes. We then settled down and held firm scoring just before the break closing 3-1 down at half time. The second half continued much the same, but as we chased the game and pushed forward we left gaps at the back which HBU exploited as we were well beaten 9-1 (McCann 1).
Our second game was a re-run of the EC Cup final, King’s Lynn were our opponents. Right from the whistle the game exploded, flowing from end to end, physical and competitive as ever. Once again we fell behind to an early goal but this time we were more resilient and held firm, equalising before the half time break. The second half was set up for a thriller and indeed it was as we took the lead. Both teams playing well with quality and competitive hockey we held the lead for much of the second half but today was not to be our day as we first conceded an equaliser followed by a late winner as we lost this encounter 3-2 (Pembrey 2).
Our final game was against Manchester, this would be a journey into the unknown as only one of their players was familiar to us. Again the game started brightly with us applying most of the early pressure. It was only a matter of time before Scott opened the scoring with a shot from distance, three more soon followed as we closed at half time 4-1 up. In the second half we were very comfortable and hit the net twice more winning 6-1 (McCann 3, Pembrey 2, Neville 1).
Despite the results this was a good tournament for us, in the first match we didn’t find our consistency quick enough and left ourselves too much to do, our second game was a cracker and could have gone either way and in game three we were just too strong for Manchester. With each game we all learn more and gain more experience. As the curtain comes down on the Minors season I would like to thank each and every one of the players for all their hard work and dedication, it has been a total pleasure!
Thanks and good luck,
Mike
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Under 11s Conference Final - Saturday 4th July 2009
Team: Nathaniel Johnson(GK), Tom Barry(Capt), Jack Stevens-Lee, Charlotte Johnson, Lucas Pembrey, Beth Neville, Jack Parry, Ben Green
Our first game was against Cambridge, a team we had never beaten before. As it was our first game it took a while for the team to wake up. This meant in the first half Cambridge took advantage and put themselves into the lead. But we went into the second half determined and ready as after a couple of fantastic goals we were comfortably in the lead and finally won 7-4.
Our next game was against Manchester which was going to be hard as they had some big players. We battled from the start, matching them in every way. We held it to a 4-3 lead when towards the end a fantastic save from Nathaniel kept us in the lead, finally winning 4-3.
Our last game of the day was the decider between us and HBU, the two teams who had won all of their games. It was most definitely going to be hard for us. Great gratitude to our goalkeeper as without him this would have been a cricket score. The final score does not reflect how well the team played as we eventually lost 14-1.
Well done to the team for coming second and thank you for a great day.
James
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Minors EC Cup Final - Sunday 28th June 2009
Team: Eddie Mount (GK), Scott Neville (Capt), Nicolas Pembrey, Fred McCann, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt, Tom Barry
The Minors E C Cup final would have been nothing more than a dream a couple of years ago but here we were in the club’s first ever final not just making the numbers up but in serious contention. King’s Lynn, our opponents, having lost the Jubilee Cup final would be desperate to win and with us having beaten and lost to them on more than one occasions this season, a great and hugely competitive game was assured.
After a cagey minute or two the game exploded into life with our keeper pulling off a string of great saves to keep us level while we fully settled to the pace of the game. The game flowed from end to end at lightning speed with both keepers kept busy. The longer the game ran the stronger we became, pressing forward at every opportunity until shortly before half time and at the end of a flowing move, Fred buried the opening goal sending us in at half time 1-0 up.
The second half picked up in the same fashion, high tempo and great hockey, everybody contributing fully to the cause. The commitment, passion and drive of these young players was unsurpassed as we scored three more goals only conceding in the dying moments of the game. We ran our worthy 4-1 winners (McCann 2, Pembrey 2) having taken part in probably the best Minor’s game of the season. A total team performance with our attacking and defence skills at their best ever! This, a wonderful representation of our whole club’s hard work and commitment to hockey. Well done, congratulations and thank you.
Mike
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Under 11's Conference Play Offs - 7th June 2009
Team: Nathaniel Johnson(GK), Tom Barry, Jack Stevens-Lee, Charlotte Johnson, Lucas Pembrey, Beth Neville, Jack Parry
Congratulations to the under 11’s team for finishing third in their league.. This meant they qualified for the conference play offs.
Our first game was going to be the easiest of the two against Plymouth. A good game from the team, they played well in both attack and defence scoring 8 goals and conceding none.
The second team was against HBU and was going to be challenging. A fantastic first half from the team scoring 3 goals looking to come out on top. However in the second half the other team pulled back two goals meaning we had to defend for the remaining few minutes which we did to finally win 3-2.
Congratulations to the team and thank you for a great day. Good Luck in the final.
James
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SECHRA - Intermediates - Sunday 31st May 2009
Team: Kasia Parfitt (GK), James Neville (Capt), Daniel Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt
Our final trip down south to the Pier was for Herne Bay United’s home tournament, on the back of the EC Cup qualifiers the day before this would not only be a test of physical but mental test too.
First up East Grinstead who, fresh from a trip back to Portugal with Carlos, seemed much more organised and pressed hard right from the off playing with style and confidence. We really didn’t settle and conceded early on. The goal seemed to wake us up as we picked up the play and pressed on ourselves. Scott sneaked a goal just before half time and we closed at the interval 1-1. The second half saw us back to somewhere near form as we rattled in three more conceding just once more, 4-2 the final result (S Neville 3, McCann 1).
Herne Bay were our second opponents of the day and unlike our meetings before, were organised and disciplined and caught us out right from the off. Through sloppy defending and poor concentration we found ourselves 2-0 down come half time. It was quite clear to see that we were not playing well and really struggled to break down their tight defence, when we did we blew our chance with poor finishing. Finally we pulled 1 back and then really started to play but it was too little too late as we ran out of time losing 2-1 (McCann 1).
Our last game of the day was against HBU, this was a fast and frantic attacking game, mostly one way, our way! We seemed to be second to every ball and spending too much time making good our mistakes. Had our team been of Junior age I would have been convinced that they had been out the night before clubbing as we were beaten 6-1 (S Neville 1). A very disappointing and lack lustre performance to end the day. You certainly can’t win them all, they say, I’m not sure we even tried today.
Mike
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Inters EC Knock Out Cup - Saturday 30th May 2009
Team: Matt Stearn (GK), James Neville (Capt), Daniel Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Jordan Tomalin
The E C Cup knock out was always going to be the opportunity to test ourselves against the best. As league two winners and the only entrant from our division every game would be against high league opposition. First up were Bury who had slipped up against Ely Green and would have to go for goals against us. Right from the off we were under great pressure, the pace and the accurate passing took us some time to adjust to as we seemed to spend our time chasing shadows. At half time we were 3-0 down which on reflection was a respectable score. The second half brought more of the same and with our young inexperience legs tiring we conceded 6 more losing 9-0. This game for Bury was about scoring goals and for us a learning curve, learning to adjust to the skill, pace and wisdom of these experienced players.
Our second game was against Ely Green, once again a very good team but this time we were better prepared and took the game to them scoring early. We pressured well throughout the first half and matched Ely in all departments closing at half time 3-3. The second half started well again for us as we continued to play with confidence until again we began to tire towards the end and along with a peculiar decision, play was allowed to continue while we had one man down and one man in attendance leaving us four on two to concede a late goal which all but finished our chances as we finally lost 6-4 (McCann 1, J Neville 1, S Neville 2).
Our final game became a game of pride as we took on Ely Blue. This time we were the dominant force as we outplayed and out fought Ely winning 5-1 (McCann 3, Tomalin 1, J Neville 1).
This was a good day for our intermediates team giving them an opportunity of tough games. The outcome of this day only confirms my beliefs that we have an excellent goalkeeper, excellent young players, as good as spirit as you could ask for and a team that could have coped in the higher league without disgracing themselves. A brilliant day and a great experience. Thank you all.
Well done
Mike
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Under 15’s Tournament - Burwell - Sunday 10th May 2009
Team: Matt Stearn (GK), James Neville (Capt), Daniel Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Jordan Tomalin
It’s hard to believe that 12 months have passed since the final tournament last year when we clinched the Division Two Minors title, but here we were back at Burwell for our final Intermediates tournament and again a title at stake. Four of last year’s team were involved and together with the three senior intermediates we were in good shape to take the title. For me the hard work had been done at our previous tournament but we still needed two wins and a draw and although I believed we would be too strong for our opposition today we had to make sure we did not slip up.
First up Cottenham B. Our B team had always made it difficult for us to break them down so a fast and pressured start was the order of the day. I’m not sure what Fred had for breakfast but he was truly a man on a mission, popping in a couple of early goals and settling any nerves. With a brace from Dan and a goal from James we were cruising by half time 5-0. Further goals from Scott and Fred in the second half secured a 7-0 victory (McCann 3, Pembrey, 2, J Neville 1, S Neville 1).
Our second game was against Colchester. After the opening goal from James and a couple from Fred it was totally one way traffic. 9-0 at half time, team talks revolved mainly around the weather. The second half saw us slot home four more before one moment of defensive suicide allowing Colchester in to take their only goal of the game, 13-1 winners and we were flying (J Neville 7, Pembrey 3, McCann 2, S Neville 1).
Our final game was against Bury and a more balanced game for the first fifteen minutes seeing us just ahead 5-2 at half time. The second half again was all one way traffic as we popped in nine more goals bringing the end to the tournament and our league season with a 14-2 victory (Tomalin 1, Pembrey 2, S Neville 4, J Neville 7).
This has been a truly fantastic season for this intermediates team losing just once all season and growing stronger with every tournament. Each and every player has played a part in this success both on and off the rink. It has been a total pleasure to have been involved with these players to see how they have all developed as individuals and as a team through this journey.
Well Done
Mike
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Under 11's Tournament - Burwell - Saturday 9th May 2009
Team : Tom Barry (Captain), Nathaniel Johnson (GK), Charlotte Johnson, Lucas Pembrey, Jack Stevens-Lee, Beth Neville, Jack Parry, Ben Green.
Our last tournament of the season was an important one as we needed to win enough points to fend off Kings Lynn and keep our third place.
The first game was closely contested with a 2-4 defeat against Cambridge, and that was followed by a 2-8 defeat by Ely. The pressure was on, but a 6-2 win against a feisty Kings Lynn team, who were only one point behind and challenging for third position in the league, secured our place.
The last game against Norwich was deemed a 'friendly' and not a tournament points decider. That gave an opportunity for all of the younger less experienced players to play for the full 30 minutes and I was hugely impressed with their performances.
I would like to thank all of the players for their hard work and commitment this season and congratulate them for a very well earned third position in the league table.
Thanks to all of the supportive parents (a.k.a. taxi service) as without them we wouldn't have had a team !
Paula
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Minors A - Jubilee Cup - 25th/26th April 2009
Team: Oliver Dawes (GK), Nicolas Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt, Tom Barry
We entered into this Jubilee Cup with high hopes, we had a good team, all used to playing together and a system that had served us well.
First up King’s Lynn, opening matches had never been our strong point and this was to be no exception, after the early exchanges we seemed second to everything. Despite creating several opportunities we found ourselves 2-0 down come half time. The second half remained much the same and although we knocked a couple of goals in we were well beaten by the end, losing 6-2 (Neville 1, Pembrey 1), ironically our biggest defeat to this team this season.
For our second game a journey into the unknown, Spanish side CP Ripes. A must win game for us if we were to progress in this tournament. We started brilliantly taking a 2-0 lead playing fast and exciting hockey, despite our early lead we closed at half time 5-2 down. In the second half we really took the game to them, playing with great passion and pride, we finished by far the stronger team but were pipped at the post losing 6-5 (Pembrey 3, McCann 1, Neville 1). Tears of disappointment, hearts broken and dreams shattered, and I think the players were quite upset as well!
Our four remaining games were all business as usual as we swept aside Ely Blue 10-0 (Barry 3, Parfitt 2, McCann 2, Neville 2, Pembrey 1), Ely Green 10-3 (McCann 3, Neville 4, Pembrey 2, Barry 1), Cottenham B 9-0 (Pembrey 3, Neville 2, McCann 2, Barry 1, Parfitt 1), Bury 6-1 (McCann 2, Neville 2, Parfitt 1, Barry 1).
None of our final games really troubled us but full credit must go to all the players for the way we finished the tournament with a very positive and professional manner. For some of our players this was their last chance in this competition, winning is nice but taking part is far more important and along with our fifth place we can take a awful lot of pride in the knowledge that we pushed the eventual tournament winners to within one goal.
Thanks everybody for your positive attitude and effort other this very long weekend.
Mike
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Under 11’s Tournament - Kings Lynn - Saturday 4th April 2009
Team : Nathaniel Johnson (GK), Beth Neville, Jack Stevens-Lee, Charlotte Johnson, Lucas Pembrey, Tom Barry and Jack Parry.
Our penultimate tournament of the season was a very successful day out for Cottenham Under 11s. The first game against Kings Lynn A was fast and furious with Cottenham winning 9-3. A great start! The second game against Herne Bay United was no less exciting with the team managing a 7-4 victory. The final match was against Kings Lynn B who were far from the B team we were expecting - they gave us a closely fought match but Cottenham overcame them to win 8-4.
A fantastic day out, the first time this season we have won all of our matches, moving us up to third in the league. Congratulations to all of the players - thanks for all of your hard work !
Paula
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Under 15’s Tournament - Manningtree - Saturday 4th April 2009
Team: Matt Stearn (GK), James Neville (Capt), Daniel Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Jordan Tomalin
Inters tournaments seem to be spread out not just in miles but in time between them, this trip to Manningtree had been a long time coming particularly the last game of the day against the league leaders EC Select. Both of us were on a four match format today which meant conserving energy where possible for the inevitable last game show down.
First we kicked off with a match against Colchester, a team with mixed ability and pace. Things clicked into gear with Scott opening our account early on, Dan soon made it two before, without a doubt, came the biggest cheer of the day for a brilliantly taken goal by Jordan receiving the ball in the opposition half and finishing with a peach of a flick in the top right hand corner. We finished the game netting four more goals finally winning 7-1 (Tomalin 2, S Neville 2, Pembrey 2, J Neville 1). Everybody seemed to be playing well, a good omen for the day ahead.
HBU were our next opponents, fast and very competitive as ever, never a major threat except for one moment of confusion in our defence in letting them through. Always enjoyable, always fair, always in control, 5-1 final score (McCann 2, S Neville 2, Pembrey 1).
Our penultimate match was against our own club mates Cottenham B. These matches are becoming something of a spectacle on the circuit, playing players from your own club means they have an extra insight into your own strengths and weaknesses. Cottenham B defended like Trojans making us work for everything even testing our inform goalkeeper far more than in our previous matches. Eventually the stalemate was broken with a well taken goal by James and the game was wrapped up with a brace from Dan. While we did concede a goal late on, this acted as nothing more than a wakeup call. These will never be easy games and the longer the season goes on I feel the closer they will become, with a final score 3-1 (Pembrey 2, J Neville 1) we had really set ourselves up for our final match and without doubt biggest game of the day.
We had by this stage guaranteed ourselves the runners up spot in the league, but had to beat EC Select to stand any chance of winning the title. As I gave my team talk and final instructions I could feel the hairs on the back of my neck stand up as I sensed the determination and commitment of these players, no comments, no bright ideas, no back chat, total silence and full concentration on everyone’s face, we were ready. The game started well for us, we were pressurising the ball constantly giving them no time to settle, frustrating them at every opportunity. It was only a matter of time with both teams committing themselves fully before things would boil up, both teams receiving cautions. The game as expected became more and more physical but with the experiences gained from our trips to SECHRA and Farnham we have become more accustomed to dealing with this side of the game and it showed as we pressed on relentlessly. Our pressure paid off before half time as EC Select conceded an own goal. We had created many opportunities to score but in a funny way I was happy we were just the one goal up, it kept us on our toes and fully focused for the job ahead. Second half simply picked up from where the first half had finished, the big surprise being that they didn’t chase the game quite so much as we had expected. As the time moved on the game became more and more physical keeping the referees on their toes, holding control. Some good build up play, a cracking pass and a clinical finish by Fred rewarded us with our second goal and a cushion. With tired legs the inevitable mistakes are made and this is the point where a great goalie earns his corn and for this performance Matt deserves a sack full! As a team we have grown so much and with the experience we have gained, two goals lead is a big margin for anybody to overturn and for the remaining few minutes we simply shut up shop, ran the clock down where possible and saw the game to its conclusion. 2-0 winners (own goal 1, McCann 1). league title in our own hands, three more games to go.
Well done everybody, a brilliant day’s work.
Mike
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Minors A Tournament - Soham - 28th March 2009
Team: Oliver Dawes (GK), Nicolas Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt, Tom Barry
Back at Ross Peers for the final leg of our season, the last time our minors team will play together in this league and everything still to play for. Our opening game was against Bury, a young team who have made great improvement this season. A high tempo right from the start saw us race to a 2-0 lead, then some poor defending and lapse of concentration saw the game change and by half time we were 3-2 down. Harsh words and a few home truths were the foundation of the half time team talk. We picked the pace up after the break but Bury held us well for the next 7 ½ minutes until our pressure paid dividends and the flood gates opened as we rattled in 6 more goals in the last quarter of the game running out 8-3 winners (McCann 2, Pembrey 1, Neville 5).
Next up the big one, King’s Lynn. The whole season seemed to have come down to this game, win and the runners up spot would be ours for the taking, lose and we would almost certainly have to settle for third place. The game started well, both teams obviously fired up and playing good hockey. A brace from Scott and a Becca Sharpe special sent us in 3-0 at half time. We decided to push for more goals in the second half but were caught sleeping and conceded two early goals in the opening couple of minutes. From then on King’s Lynn piled on the pressure chasing the equaliser. In the remaining ten minutes or so I must have aged ten years as we squandered chances and resisted wave after wave of King’s Lynn attacks, even surviving a late penalty against us which was put wide. As we fell over the finishing line it may not have been pretty but it epitomised the determination within this team throughout the course of this season as we finished 3-2 winners. Bravo!! (Neville 2, Sharpe 1)
Game three was a friendly with HBU A, while we wanted to win I’m not sure how much was left in the tank and while we played ok we never really looked like turning them over on this occasion and as they seemed to sense this they grew with confidence and played with a flowing style we just couldn’t match. We lost this one 6-0.
Two games break and then our final league match of the 2008-09 season. We had every reason to feel confident in this game as HBU B had failed to score against us so far this season. Once again we started well playing the game mostly in their half but despite our continuous pressure we were only 1-0 up at half time. We continued much the same in the second half until finally the break through came and much like the first game the flood gates opened and we popped in 11 more goals before the final whistle. While these games are not always challenging for our senior minors they give a chance to others to stretch their legs and the highlight of this game for me was the 4 well taken goals by the ever improving Tom Barry. An excellent final day with a flattering 12-0 score line (Barry 4, Parfitt 1, Sharpe 1, Neville 1, McCann 3, Pembrey 2).
We are now confirmed runners-up, two points behind the league champions and two points ahead of King’s Lynn in third place. This is an outstanding achievement by any club but in only our third season this is quite remarkable. This team is not only a good roller hockey team but a collection of wonderful young people who have worked so hard to make this happen. Congratulations and thank you very much.
Mike
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SECRHA Under 15’s Tournament - Sunday 15th March 2009
Team: Kasia Parfitt (GK), James Neville (Capt), Daniel Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rees Parfitt, Rebecca Sharpe
The second tournament of the SECHRA season took us off to the Pier at Herne Bay, without doubt the best venue our Intermediate players will play at this season. A purpose built skating/roller hockey rink with seating for several hundred people that had hosted a big European game the night before.
Our first game paired us with East Grinstead the only team to take a point from us at our first tournament. The game began at a high tempo with both teams evenly matched and pressing forward. These days we are very robust in the way we approach our games and although our play was nowhere near perfect we took enough of our chances to claim a 4-2 victory (J Neville 2, S Neville 1, East Grinstead own goal).
Our second game was against the home team Herne Bay, a team with lots of ability who unfortunately at times let aggression get the better of them. A very physical game which was fiercely contested and very close until their Captain was sent off late in the game. From then on we were in full control running out 3-1 winners (McCann 1, J Neville 1, S Neville 1).
The final game was against Herne Bay United, a team we meet regularly both at Minors and Intermediates level. A very young team with some outstanding players who attacked us right from the off, testing our defence and excellent goalkeeper. As in previous games we only played well in patches and struggled to gel at times as a team, however we were never without fight and had enough quality and depth to carry us through and grind out a result allowing us to complete a hat trick of victories with a 6-4 win (Pembrey 1, J Neville 2, McCann 2, S Neville 1).
A wonderful day, three great games, a stroll down the seafront and a well earned ice cream. These young people whose conduct and behaviour is exemplary when on their travels are a credit to themselves, the club and the village they represent.
Mike
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Farnham Shield - Schoolboys - Sunday 8th March 2009
Team: Kasia Parfitt (GK), Eddie Mount (GK), James Neville (Capt) , Daniel Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt
A day trip to Farnham for the 2009 Farnham Shield gave us the opportunity for our first run out at schoolboys level. For a team consisting of one 12 year old, five 13 year olds and two 14 year olds playing in this under 17’s tournament may have seemed all too premature but at Cottenham we are used to being up against it.
Game 1
Whilst standing at the cheers before our first game against Farnham the day’s problems were never more apparent. Farnham, whose team was made up of mainly top age group schoolboys towered over most of our young team. As Farnham took an early 1 goal lead it seemed that we were in for a very daunting day but after a cracking Dan Pembrey penalty we were back on level terms and after 10 minutes, and a fantastic effort from all we were leading 3-1. While we matched Farnham in effort and quality of play, age, size and experience finally took its toll as we lost 10-3 (Pembrey 2, J Neville 1).
Game 2
Our second game in the pool stages was against Ely. A team whilst still older, not quite the miss-match of the first game. Despite Ely’s strong play we coped well and created numerous attempts on goal, particularly in the first half but this day was not to be ours as we competed with a team as equally hungry as our own and with a goalkeeper in brilliant form. Although we lost 7-0 and were beaten by a better team we definitely deserved at least a couple of goals for our hard work. Sometimes that’s the way it goes!
Game 3
The final game for us was the 5th/6th play offs. Plymouth were our opponents and neither of us has recorded a win as yet, this game was about pride. We had a disastrous start and were 3-0 down in the first couple of minutes. It would have been easy to have thought heads have dropped and the game was slipping away from us but these days we are better than that. A quick word, fresh legs on the rink and we were off. By half time Becca and Scott had scored and we were back to 3-2, game on setting things up for a cracking second half. The standard of our hockey, particularly in the second half was brilliant, we were now feeling very comfortable at this level and competing on equal terms, battling for everything as if our lives depended on it. Our fitness and commitment finally grounded Plymouth down to a point where they had no answer to the questions being asked. This was a thrilling game, enjoyed not only by us but by many other spectators judging from the comments made. We were without doubt worthy of our 8-5 victory (Sharpe 1, Pembrey 1, McCann 2, J Neville 2, S Neville 2) and have left our mark at the schoolboys level.
Well done to everybody, particularly our two goalkeepers who were both outstanding and endured a day of shots from some players who will shortly move up to senior level.
A very proud and memorable day for Cottenham Roller Hockey Club.
Mike
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Minors A Tournament - Burwell : 28 February 2009
Team: Oliver Dawes (GK), Nicolas Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt, Tom Barry
As spring approaches and the days draw out the hockey season really warms up as we reach our penultimate minors league tournament. First up Peterborough, a young team who have never really caused us a big problem this season and it seemed business as usual as we finished 4-1 winners (Neville 1, Barry 1, Pembrey 1, Sharpe 1) without really getting going, inconsistent passing, indifferent finishing and poor rink positioning, things which have troubled us most of this season. It seemed to me as if this season we would never show our full ability on match days. How wrong I was to be!
Next up, our old foes Kings Lynn as if someone had flipped a switch the team swung into action competing for every ball, passing and moving off the ball like a well oiled machine. Despite conceding an early goal we were soon back on level terms, then pressing on hard playing with great confidence and ease seeing the game through to a very satisfactory 4-2 victory (Neville 2, Pembrey 1, McCann 1), this to date our best team hockey performance of the season, a cracking game and a credit to both teams.
Our final game HBU, the leagues newly crowned and worthy champions. HBU had beaten us badly on the first day of the season and despite their fantastic run deep down I always believed we had the quality to beat them. Today was to be the day, we simply picked up where we had finished in the previous game, stroking the ball around like seasoned professionals and battling for everything, our endeavours were richly rewarded with a 5-2 win (McCann 1, Pembrey 2, Neville 1, HBU own goal).
We cannot win the league but at least the runners up place is now back in our own hands giving us plenty to play for at the last tournament of the season. Brilliant hockey, terrific team performance, 3 wins out of 3, Ollie’s fantastic goalkeeping performance and Becca’s chocolate birthday cake on the day the minor’s truly came of age.
Thanks everybody, great day.
Mike
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Minors EC Cup Knockout Tournament - Burwell : 31st January 2009
Team: Eddie Mount (GK), Nicolas Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt, Tom Barry
Another cold day, another early start, another trip to Burwell and Des’ bacon butties on the stove, all the essential ingredients for a great days roller hockey especially when it is the Minors EC Cup knockout. First up in the pool stages were Bury and their young team made us work for everything. Although we won 5-1 (McCann 3, Pembrey 1, Sharpe 1) we never really got going and made hard work of the game with some very poor passing.
Our final two games in the pool section were against two Ely teams, Ely Blue and Ely Green. Both teams were very organised and played some nice hockey but neither were really a true match against our more experienced and battle hardened players and we finished 7-0 winners to Ely Blue (Neville 3, Pembrey 3, Parfitt 1) and 10-1 winners to Ely Green (Neville 3, Pembrey 3, Barry 2, McCann 2). Both scores were quite flattering as we were still not playing as well as we can. Three straight wins assured us a semi-final place against Peterborough.
At last for the first time today we began to look like our old selves and started to pass the ball, press the play and move into spaces with some degree of consistency resulting in a 4-0 win (McCann 1, Neville 1, Parfitt 1, Pembrey 1) and booking our place in the final against Kings Lynn on cup finals day. It was never easy but the sign of a good team is winning when you are not always at your best. Well done everybody for creating club history, thanks to Ric for referring once again and special thanks to Eddie Mount for travelling up from Canterbury and deputising for the day in goal.
Mike
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Minors A Tournament - Burwell : 11th January 2009
Team: Oliver Dawes (GK), Nicolas Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt
On an early Sunday morning, and with all our players involved in Intermediates the day before it was never going to be an easy start against a very good King’s Lynn side and it certainly looked that way as we went down 1-0 early on. But these days we play with fight and determination and midway through the second half we found ourselves 3-1 up. Following a penalty, King’s Lynn found new confidence and finally ran out 4-3 winners (McCann 1, Neville 2).
Our next game was our easiest as we brushed aside HBU B 13-0 (McCann 6, Sharpe 1, Parfitt 3, Pembrey 2, Neville 1) playing with confidence and style .
Next up were Peterborough who we pressured right from the start, which paid off as we limited their chances and eventually ran out comfortable winners 7-2 (Neville 3, Parfitt 2, McCann 1, Pembrey 1).
The first signs of tiredness were for all to see at the start of the last game as we totally lost our shape and organisation and we quickly slipped 2-0 down to Bury. This was the wakeup call we needed and from then on it was one way traffic as we finished on a high with a 10-4 victory (Parfitt 1, McCann 3, Neville 1, Sharpe 2, Pembrey 3).
Once again a great days play and at times hockey beyond the years of our young players.
Well done everybody and thank you.
Mike
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Under 15’s Tournament -King’s Lynn : Saturday 10th January 2009
Team: Matt Stearn (GK), James Neville, Daniel Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Jordan Tomalin
Minus 3 the temperature read on the car dashboard as we made the hour long journey up to King’s Lynn on Saturday. Ironically having spent an hour in the car travelling to the venue our first game was against our very own Cottenham B. A tense game followed with us making most of the early running, Cottenham B held firm until 5½ minutes in when we broke the deadlock. This was never going to be an easy game and although we ran out 4-0 winners (J Neville 3, S Neville 1) the real winner was Cottenham Roller Hockey Club!
Our second game was a feast of goals as we beat a young Bury side 13-0 (Pembrey 6, J Neville 3, McCann 1, S Neville 2 + Bury own goal)
The final match was a sizzler as we played a powerful and big hitting King’s Lynn team who we not only matched but eventually swept aside 7-0 (Pembrey 4, S Neville 2, J Neville 1).
Some impressive match stats by any standard, played 3, won 3, goals for 24, goals against 0. Well done everybody and especially Matt for keeping his 3rd, 4th & 5th clean sheet of the season. A brilliant day that started sub zero and ended red hot!!
A big thank you to everyone and well done.
Mike
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Minors A - Home Tournament : 13th December 2008
Team: Oliver Dawes (GK), Nicolas Pembrey, Fred McCann, Scott Neville, Rebecca Sharpe, Rees Parfitt, Tom Barry
Another great day for the Minors A at our 2008 home tournament. The players are feeling very much at home these days at the CRC as we got off to a flying start with an 8-0 (Neville 4, Pembrey 3, Sharpe 1) victory against HBU B. We then faced HBU A, a fantastic young team who, despite us creating numerous goal scoring chances, beat us 5-2 (McCann 1, Neville 1), the second time in a row we have lost to these with a three goal deficit. If the character of the team was ever in doubt it was laid to rest as we moved onto our third game with an 11-2( Pembrey 3, McCann 2, Barry 2, Neville 2, Parfitt 1, Sharpe 1) victory over Bury and rounded off the day with a 5-1 (McCann 2, Barry 2, Neville 1) win against Peterborough.
The spirit in the team was excellent all day long and the hockey played by our players gets better with each tournament. One of the most pleasing aspects of this tournament was that every outfield player was on the score sheet. Taking all this into account and with the ever improving Oliver Dawes in goal it is only a matter of time before we secure a victory over the top two teams.
Well done to all.
Mike
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SECRHA Under 15’s Tournament : Saturday 6th December 2008
On Saturday an Inters team consisting of Kasia Parfitt (Goalkeeper), Daniel Pembrey, James Neville, Fred McCann, Rees Parfitt & Scott Neville travelled down to East Grinstead and took part in the first Southern Counties under 15’s tournament of the season. We played three matches the first against Herne Bay United, then Herne Bay and finally the home team, East Grinstead.
The HBU game proved to be our easiest as we ran out 8-3 winners. The Herne Bay game was our most physical giving a stern test to some of our young minors but eventually we proved too strong and finished clear winners with a 6-2 victory.
Our final game was to be the game of the day as both us and East Grinstead had won our first two matches. What a cracking game this turned out to be. Having come from behind twice we found ourselves 4-2 down with 5 minutes to play. I can honestly say that during those final five minutes, I witnessed the finest hockey ever played by this club since we started and the commitment of all the players was unquestionably without compromise. Not only did we pull the score level to 4-4 but we nearly snatched victory in the dying seconds.
All the player’s performances were exceptional but I would like to highlight the outstanding performance of Kasia Parfitt in goal whose lightening reactions and dominant performance between the sticks gave us a confident platform to work from. Also a big thank you must go to Ric Parfitt for a marathon referring session of six straight games.
The children have all told me how much they enjoyed this experience and that, for me alone, was a measure of the success of the day. A big thank you must go to Chris Graff at East Grinstead for inviting us and to SECRHA for allowing us to participate.
Mike
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