Palmer's prattle: The summer season came to an end with a return friendly between the Cardinals and the Devils. The Cardinals had the bonus of Andy Cameron and Paul Croker making their comebacks after a long spell out inured. Both successful came through 35 minutes each. In the first friendly between the sides the result was 2-1 to the Cardinals. This time the result was reversed. Both sides played some good hockey and there were strong performances all over the pitch. The quality of Ed Minchin, Tom Fishley and Ben Lipfriend was augmented by the skills of Reston Smith and the Wilkins brothers, Straun and Tremaine. The experience of those three plus Steve Millman was the telling factor in the Devils victory. The Cardinals loaned Mike Harvey to the Devils and he turned on a super show, saving a penalty stoke from the skipper, as well as numerous other good saves. The Cardinals did get the ball in the net, but Duncan Ogilvie owned up to the use of a foot that umpire Jez Longden didn't spot. Jez didn't miss anything else and umpired well. Then came the costly penalty stroke. Both sides were pressing forwards and a great move by the Devils put Ben Lipfriend down the right. Ben cut in and intelligently pulled the ball back for Reston Smith to pick his spot. The game was squared up when Sam Parker worked the ball down the Cardinals' right and found James Pope at the back post to sweep the ball in. There was everything to play for in the second half. Again it was a very even affair with Mike Harvey being the over worked of the two goalkeepers. Ben Lipfriend pounced, mid way through the half to score. This turned out to be the winning goal. The value of this game is that the youngsters showed they have learned a lot from playing for two summers and a winter. The important thing is that everyone takes what they have learned about themselves and apply it to which ever side they are playing for this winter. Expect to see the best of the youngsters knocking on the door of the Wanderers and maybe even the thirds. On an unusual note, Bluebottles, Bishops, Cardinals and Devils all finished on 50%, with and equal number of wins against defeats. With both the Bishops and Cardinals playing at a higher level, this is a commendable achievement. James Pope and ben Lipfriend, by scoring a goal apiece finished joint leading scorers for the summer.

Palmer's prattle: The Cardinals wrapped up their summer league season with a tough match with an Imperial team bursting with Premier players and one with National League experience. The game plan was to contest the midfield and not slip any early goals as we have done in a couple of recent games. With less than a minute played Imperial pounced on a rebound and their powerful forward unleashed a blistering shot. Not the way we wanted to start. The Cardinals are made of sterner stuff and battled their way back into the game. In midfield the combination of Mssrs Ludley, Harvey, Wornell and Enderby, not only got hold of the game and took it away from Imperial, but worked a number of good scoring chances. One sweeping move down the right saw James Pope deliver an inside ball to Martin Palmer. His shot came off the pads to Dave Wornell who buried his shot with a thumping drive. Sam Parker was unlucky not to score a hat-trick, seeing all his shots saved at close range by the home goalkeeper who was playing well. At half time Imperial came off and were heard to say "They're playing better hockey than us!" Praise indeed for our rag-tag mixture of Wizards, Warriors, Widgets and Worny! Imperial's quality players upped their game in the second half and despite heroic work from Andy Krebs and his defence of Fey, Rose, Wise and Jacklin scored four more goals. At 2-1 down there were still chances going in front of the Imperial goal. Andy pulled off a string of spectacular and agile saves. Ernie Wise and Peter Rose both cleared off the line. If Westbury heads had dropped and the Cardinal team spirit had evaporated, then Imperial would have had an avalanche of goals. The Cardinals have a never-say-die attitude and work hard for each other, so it was no surprise that we contested the game right to the bitter end as if we were protecting a 1-0 lead and not three goals in arrears. Our final record of 5 wins 2 draws and 5 defeats is no mean achievement for players who have played 12 games, way out of their comfort zone, and proved that it is team work, commitment and endevour that is the ingredient of a team that gets results. Let's hope that everyone who turned out can influence their winter teams in the same positive way they did this summer. It's been a pleasure to lead them this summer. There is one final piece of action with a return friendly against the Devils next Tuesday at Coombe Dingle.

Palmer's prattle: The Cardinals were disappointed by their first half play against a Grapes side that was drawn from much higher up the O Bristolians club than the Wizards, Warriors and Widgets on duty for Westbury. It shows how expectations have been set high because we felt we didn't compete due to some poor passing and the inability to find our front men, and then for them to keep the ball. Grapes scored early from a lofted rebound off the pads that was picked up in the loose and flicked in. The second was a short corner and the third a scrambled goal from a melee in the goalmouth. The last ten minutes of the half showed what Westbury were capable of and possession was much better. At half time the Cardinals regrouped and restructured and came out determined to make a game of it. To their credit they kept Grapes from making any significant in roads into the D and contested the midfield much more effectively. A couple of Cardinal chances came and went, but at least we drew the second half 0-0. Thanks go to Chris Cocks for his first session of an umpiring double in 24 hours.

Krebs' call: Fan the 12 loons o' the Bluebottles sein fit tae tak tae the pitch agin Clan Robinson, mony an observer wis tein tae remark o the splendour that wis tae unfold afore their e'en.
New tae the bottle's nummer wis Tremaine Wilkins, brer o' the acclaimed Struan Wilkins, as weel as Hugh Barnes fa took his debut wi nae pedie aplomb. The shilpit figure of Martin Palmer wis spied on the sidelines makin his return efter 25 years oot o the first team. Camin oer as re-enforcements, kinna similar tae the Great Montrose at Cromdale wis young Pete Murphy fa hid his first game in goal fur the Bottles this summer.An the gemme stairtit wi Robbie's takin early advantage an pressin hard on the bluebottle's defence. Spralin forth wi great endeavour, the bottle's managed tae haud back the advance, Murphy's loupin aroon the D managed to haul the bottle's oot o some boggin holes. Eventually but, the ba wis horsed forward tae Palmer fa, staunin on the edge o the D seen fit tae deflect the ba' an lob the goalie wi whit can only be described as the maist audacious attempt on goal ever witnessed. The length of the goalies forefinger wis a' that served tae scunner the bottles and prevent a lead opening up.Despite all that endeavour, the Bluebottles did relinquish a goal shortly afterwards and ended up at half time 1 goal down. It was testament to the superb keeping of Murph that we were not considerably worse off. The second half started inauspiciously, an early short corner giving Robbies the chance to extend their lead with a neatly placed drag into the top right corner putting a complexion on the game which was maybe unjust. As a result Bluebottles started to open their game up and a particularly endevourous effort from Dave Dinley ably assisted by his sidekick Cuttsy started to open gaps wide in the Robbies defence. Midfield work from the bluebottles was nothing short of trojan like and as the power of the game shifted, it was against the run of play that Robbies lead was further extended. Bottles sticking to the philosophy that there is no need to mark the guy at the back post when all the men on the half way line have been marked served them well again as Robbies gave Murph no chance and scored a 3rd.Nonetheless, the balance of play had been shifting for some time, Martin Palmer having a couple of opportunities from the top of the D that a less experienced player might not have managed to spot, and it came as no surprise and no light relief when nellor opened the Bottles' account with about 10 minutes to go. A hard shot across the goalie, seemingly ignoring the case of the magically disappearing front stick, went through the goalie and nestled midway up the backboard in the bottom left corner.It was Game on. Could the Bottles' score 2 more goals in the next 10 minutes to bring the game level?No,Robbies got a fourth and we lost 4-1.A few points to note were, Tremaine's first game for the club, first game for a number of years by all accounts, I think anyone who watched the game would have been surprised to know this, he fitted in well and kept a tight ship at the back alongside Piddsy, Smerald and fellow debutant Hugh Barnes who we welcome back to the club after 4-5 years of white lightning consumption and drug abuse. Making his astroturf debut for the first team, Mr Martin Palmer stepped into the team declaring it was easier to play against better players. So having decided to call his bluff, Martin set about proving himself right. Had his first attempt on goal come off, I swear to god, I would have retired from hockey having seen everything it was possible for a writer to see.Thanks to Cocksy for umpiring again, finding it easier I believe having another umpire on the pitch as opposed to last game against brands when he was assisted by a fungus at the other end who was unable to walk and scratch his arse at the same time.Incidentally, the less said about this writers outfield debut for the 1s, the better. Let that be a lesson to all the "ill/injured/sleepy" first team players who did not want to play. Mr Palmer has secured his place in the team, and will not lose it until any potential usurpers prove themselves.

Coatesy's Corner: Due to the 1's also having a game on the same day, the 2nds went with the bare 11 to play a full strength OB's team. To make matters worse we lost Catchpole after 5 mins to a pulled hamstring (who says running the marathon is good for you).....this made the rest of the game hard as we were always chasing the ball. 5-0 down at half time. In the second half OB's added 4 more before Butt grabbed a goal. 9-1 the final result. Thanks to the guys that filled in and to Steve Alger for umpiring.

2009 Division 1	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	P
Bath Buccaneers	7	7	0	0	36	12	24	21
Robs Supersonics	8	6	0	2	37	16	21	18
Bristol Indians	7	5	2	0	33	11	22	17
Flames	8	5	1	2	41	27	14	16
Bluebottles	9	4	2	3	26	23	3	14
Warlocks	7	4	1	2	30	28	2	13
Blazers	5	2	0	3	26	31	-5	6
Somerset Gryphons	9	2	3	4	41	49	-8	9
Angels	7	2	0	5	25	41	-16	6
Bristol & West	7	0	0	7	5	34	-29	0
Thornes	7	0	0	7	19	36	-17	0
2009 Division 2	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	P
Torpids	9	7	0	2	31	32	-1	21
Bristol & UWE	8	4	0	4	38	30	8	12
Bath Buccs 'B'	8	4	0	4	23	17	6	12
Wotton-u-Edge	8	4	0	4	31	24	7	12
Robinsons 'A'	9	6	0	3	33	32	1	18
Bishops	10	4	2	4	19	31	-12	14
Chippenham	9	4	1	4	27	20	7	13
Shepton Mallet	8	5	0	3	37	26	11	15
Rascals	7	2	3	2	14	19	-5	9
Somerset Gryphons 'A'	9	2	0	7	31	36	-5	6
Mid Somerset	9	1	2	6	25	42	-17	5
2009 Division 3	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	P
Vinyards	10	7	1	2	55	20	35	22
Warlocks 'A'	10	7	1	2	48	28	20	22
Bath Cobwebs	10	7	1	2	26	18	8	22
Imperial	9	7	0	2	52	29	23	21
Cardinals	11	5	2	4	20	30	-10	17
Nomads	10	4	3	3	33	19	14	15
Clinkers	9	4	1	4	28	28	0	13
Chippenham 'A'	8	4	1	3	14	26	-12	13
Bristol & West 'A'	10	3	2	5	19	25	-6	11
Grapes	11	3	0	8	25	39	-14	9
South Glouc	10	2	2	6	21	36	-15	8
Long Ashton Frys	10	2	0	8	16	42	-26	6
Shepton Mallet 'A'	8	1	0	7	8	26	-18	3
2009 Division 4	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	P
N Bristol & W Glos 'C'	9	8	0	1	38	18	20	24
Bath Banzis	9	7	0	2	38	14	24	21
N Somerset	10	6	1	3	32	23	9	19
Mid Somerset 'A'	10	5	2	3	37	33	3	14
Bristol & West 'B'	10	4	1	5	30	28	2	13
Chippenham 'B'	10	3	2	5	27	33	-6	11
Devils	10	3	2	4	22	36	-14	11
The Sparks	8	2	4	2	21	24	-3	10
Mendip	9	2	3	4	23	28	-5	9
Robinsons 'B'	9	3	0	6	21	24	-9	9
The Pips	8	2	2	4	15	19	-4	8
Somerset Gryphons 'B'	11	2	1	8	32	57	-25	7

With just a couple of weeks left the summer season can already be seen as a success, even though none of the sides can actually win their divisions. Bluebottles under new leader Andy Krebs has had a young side that has played well and sit close to the top of the table. The Angels, who are playing well out of their comfort zone of division 2 for the second successive season, have chalked up two wins which could ensure a third season in the top summer division. The Bishops, having been champions of division 3 in 2008, have had an excellent summer and finished with a highly commendable 50% record, and that could have been better had more of their squad made themselves available for the tricky trip to Shepton Mallet, where 9 men could not get a result. The Cardinals have exceeded their expectations following 2008's promotion from division 4. Their 5 wins ensure that they can finish with at least a 50% record. The Devils have not had as many of their young players available, but those that have played have done a good job for their team and a mid table finish is very probable. The only downside for this summer is the lack of support for the top teams and both Bluebottles and Angels could not muster a side to visit Bath on a Friday. Another positive is the introduction of new players to the club.

Feymous' last words: We expected a hard game against West Wilts Warlocks and we weren’t disappointed. From the start their players showed that they had plenty of fancy skills up their sleeves and we found ourselves under regular pressure. I think both sides were surprised when it was still 0-0 after fifteen minutes, due to a combination of: - determined defending from Westbury - Warlocks exploring 101 elaborate methods of not scoring a goal. Our luck ran out though when one of their players wriggled, squirmed, and twirled his way through a packed defence to slip it past Ed West. This could have precipitated the opening of the floodgates, but the Cardinals fought back. After a move down the right Harry Newington hammered a shot from the top of the D just past the post. Then another right wing move resulted in debutant Simon Hewitt getting to the bye line – Sam Parker and Jamie Cranfield were both arriving at the top of the D, Simon got his head up and laid it back intelligently for Sam to sweep home the Edward Woodward (equaliser). It is fair to say that we were happier with the half-time 1-1 scoreline than our opponents and we hoped for our customary strong second half display. We were undone though, ten minutes into the half, when West Wilts surprised us with an unusual lack of over-elaboration – a simple ball from the edge of the D finding an unmarked man on the Warlocks right, who simply stopped the ball and cracked it in. Back came Cardinals again, Mike Harvey halted a West Wilts counter attack with a decisive interception, then set a move going down the right. This time it was Harry Newington who got to the right hand bye line. He looked up and picked out Pete Thomas near the back post, who calmly stopped it and slotted it home. Then we really annoyed Warlocks by taking the lead. This time it was a move down the left and the ball was played in to James Pope at the top of the D and James nicked it past the rapidly advancing keeper who then deposited James in a heap on the floor. A clear penalty flick, our first of the summer, awarded by Mr. Palmer. With Martin sadly unable to take the flick, James picked himself up, dusted himself down and flicked the ball convincingly into the bottom left hand corner. Clearly unimpressed with the turn of events Warlocks gave us a torrid last ten minutes, but with Ed West making some outstanding saves we held out for a famous victory. It was Stoke City 3 Arsenal 2 basically. No apologies for winning though - we stuck in there, constructed some good goals and played well as a team. In such a team effort everyone deserves a mention. Paul Clark, Duncan Ogilvie, Pete Thomas and the lively debutant Simon Hewitt did their best to feed on the scraps up front. The midfield had an unfamiliar composition, but Jamie Cranfield and Sam Parker did an excellent job sharing the centre midfield role (in place of more familiar incumbents who were rested – we seem to have lots of players in our squad) and were ably supported by Harry Newington and James Pope dropping back from their normal wing roles. A special mention for the back three, Mike Harvey, Brian Nichols and Peter Rose who were outstanding. Not only did they break up many Warlocks attacks, but their composed and calm distribution of the ball did a lot to help relieve the pressure. Thank you gentlemen. However, I think it was generally agreed that the Man of the Match was goalkeeper Ed West, in his last game of the summer. It’s been a pleasure to have him in the side this summer, he has been consistently excellent, never more so than in this match.

The Bishops could only muster 9 men for the trip to Shepton Mallet. They actually took the lead through Nathan walkey. Apparantly Shepton loaned them a player but went on to get four goals to win the game.

Palmer's prattle: The Cardinals never really produced the sort of hockey that has become their tenacious trademark, now that they are plying their way in a very competitive and demanding division. Every opponent plays their hockey two or three divisions higher than the Westbury side in the winter, so any sort of half hearted approach will be punished severely. In every game, the Cardinals have contested every ball, and against Chippenham they never gave up the cause. Chippenham, were yet another good side marshaled by former club coach David Ward at the back and looked the brighter side in the first half. They scored the only goal of the half to give them a 1-0 lead at the interval. There weren't many chances being created in the Chippenham D. There was no lack of effort, but passes were intercepted a little too easily by the visitors. At least it wasn't the sweltering heat of last week, and this week 16 players were on duty for Westbury. The defence turned in a first class performance in the second half. Mssrs Fey, Harvey, Nichols B, Rose and Harris were tackling and covering well. When they were beaten by a young player who went round Ed West to reverse stick his shot in. Ed turned, dived and saved with his stick to keep his goal intact. The 2 extra players in midfield and attack every 14 minutes gave us fresh legs to pressure Chippenham. With the final rotation starting for the last 14 minutes, and still looking for that elusive goal, Mike Harvey popped up in midfield to thread a ball through the inside right channel. The ball beat two defenders, giving Harry Newington the chance to get his long legs moving to chase the ball as it approached the D. The ball arrived in the D with the keeper racing out to clear it. Only Harry, with his long reach, could get to the ball, he reached with his stick and with one deft touch he glanced it past the keeper and into an empty goal. A draw was the final result. On the day we know we could have played better, but we did earn a point, and it just goes to show how we expect more of ourselves, despite playing at a level above which most of us play in the winter. Team spirit and organisation saw us through. We now have 4 wins, 2 draws, 2 very close defeats and one large loss. Thanks to Martin Rees for his umpiring.

Ratcliffe's Ramble: I couldn't make this match myself but George reports as follows.We won 4-3. Started slowly. Let in 2 goals in a 5 min spell. Came back to lead 3-2 at half time. They made it 3-3 half way through the second half. We got the winner with about 10 to go and held on. ... A very enjoyable game.

Alger's analysis: Final home game for the Bishops last night and we faced a familiar foe in the form of Bath Buccs - warming up properly and looking the part as they always do. We lined up with a conventional 4 - 3 - 3 but with key personnel away in the form of Poulsom & Walkey. With a squad of only 12 - unlike recently where we've had 14 - we faced a tough evening in the heat and against a team who like to play the possession game. Cutting a long story short we held out until half time and won the penalty corner count about 4 to nil but were unable to convert the chances. Second half we again played the majority of the game between our 23 yard line and the half way with Buccs enjoying a large share of possession but they had no idea how to handle the fast breaks of Chalk and Harris. One such break left them for dead and whilst in the process of shooting ( and not doubt missing !!! ) Bomber was chopped down for a certain flick - well so we thought. To our amusement the Buccs lady umpire only gave a short corner - that was until they admitted such a bad tackle should be more and agreed to the flick. Fairs fair - they were good enough to offer the flick and in the fairness of the match we sent Jimmer up with the likelihood that he'd miss and all would remain equal !!! To my amazement ( as I thought he'd hit the football posts !! ) the ball flew in off the post and we ended up winning the game one nil - despite late pressure. Man of the match - well everyone put in a bloody good shift from front to back but its without doubt that Pete Murphy was the star - he played absolutely out of his irish skin and was simply superb - keep that form up and he will push Krebs all the way assuming he's man enough to drop himself as skipper !!!! One last game next week and we are finished for a nice long summer break. Incidentally the game was played on the sand - water base a total waste of time with lack of power for the water ?

Palmer's prattle: The game at Bristol & West started with the temperature at 30 degrees and humidity up in the 80% region. 14 players were on duty for the Cardinals and the instructions at the start were to make the ball do the work. Bristol & West opened with a short corner that was converted into a goal in less than two minutes from the push back. Instead of following our game plan, we tried to run the ball too often and our passing was rather more inaccurate than we would have liked. This led to a lot of pressure being applied by the home team. They were moving the ball at speed and causing a number of problems to our defence. It took some excellent last ditch tackles and deflections to keep them out, two by Mike Harvey come to mind, and Ed West had to be wary of a number of shots that flew in his direction. We lost Will Enderby to a pulled muscle midway through the half, which meant our defence didn't get the chance to rotate to the welcome shade of the bench. They stuck at their task and Bristol & West could not score again. At the other end there were a few Westbury chances, but the home goalkeeper had an inspired game and his quick reflexes kept out several very good goal scoring efforts. At half time we reiterated the need to make the ball do the work, to cut out the unforced errors and push forward to get an early goal. The second half performance must go down as one of our best 35 minutes of the summer. Defensively we kept them at bay. Ed West afterwards said he wanted to express his thanks to the defence for their outstanding play. The team spirit in the Cardinals is excellent, typified when Alan Sparks gave up his favoured centre midfield role, to give the defence a player to rotate with. He was also there at the vital moment to make a stop on the goal-line. Credit too to Ernie Wise who was not feeling well, but stayed on the pitch to throw in his tackles in his defensive role to good effect. The midfield three of Parker, Ludley and Spencer took control of the greater part of the second half and moved the ball around well. Chances were being created and once again it was the home keeper who denied Martin Palmer and Duncan Ogilvie by saving their close range shots. Westbury throughout the game had struggled to make the new rule inside the 25 work to their advantage. Not being able to bang the ball into the D is a major handicap to those of us who play at a lower level. However, Harry Newington did find Anthony Spencer on the right side of the D from a right sided long corner. Anthony controlled the ball and delivered it square to John Ludley. John stepped into the D and we all expected him to unleash a 'power drive'. Instead he miss timed it, yet luck was with him because like the slower ball in cricket, it deceived the goalkeeper, caught the edge of his pad and finished up in the proper place behind him in the goal. A well deserved equaliser. There were further chances to both sides, but on a hot sticky night we achieved a very creditable draw against Bristol & West's second summer team with a side made up of Wizards, Warriors and Widgets. The team worked tirelessly for each other on the hottest evening of the year, and although it was only a point, it was a moral victory with a 100% 'feel good factor' of having got a result against a very good opponents. Thanks to Andy Cameron for umpiring his third game in a row.

Palmer's prattle: At 1:00pm on the day of the match everyone was heading for Golden Hill for the game against S Glos that had been brought forward two days. It was at this point that the skipper looked back at the email which said the game would be at Downend Sports Centre. The afternoon was spent emailing, texting, leaving voicemail messages and threads on the forum. So it was a source of satisfaction, along with a big sigh of relief, that the entire 14 were at Downend for the pre-match talk. Improvement on the previous result was expected against S Glos. It started well when Tony Webster struck after 5 minutes from a short corner, to give the Cardinals an early lead. Paul Clark then hammered over several good crosses that weren't turned into goals. S Glos made the game all square when they converted a short corner. The Cardinals pressed again and Sam Parker having completed his student years at Plymouth University, threaded the ball through to Martin Palmer, who shot without any great power. Dave Money was there to pick up the rebound off the pads and completely mis-flicked it with a lot of spin which confused the keeper, who could only watch it trickle under him to put the Cardinals 2-1 up. S Glos looked good going forward and we didn't have the same defensive tightness we did when we won three games in a row. S Glos again equalised to make the score 2-2 at half time. The game plan was to get a goal ahead and then get a second (well fourth really). Part one was achieved when Tony Webster struck again from a short corner, injected by Martin Fey and stopped by Tom Taylor, to give us a 3-2 lead. Part two didn't materialise and once again S Glos equalised. They got the ball into the net for what seemed a 'go-ahead' goal, but the umpire disallowed it for a foul on Tom Taylor. At the other end a 1-2-3-4 passing movement between Tony Webster and Martin Palmer saw neither of them net what should have been a simple goal. The ball was put into the net by Martin Fey, following up a short corner. However, the eagle eyed home umpire had spotted that the ball had not been stopped outside the D from Martin's push out and the goal was disallowed (How did he spot that? I admit that the ball from Martin was a little slow coming out and yes it didn't get out of the D). Ed West made two fine saves, one with his left foot after a S Glos forward ran into the D and thumped a great shot at the far post. The second came from a short when he gloved away a drag flick that was heading for the top corner. With just a minute left on the clock, Tom Taylor trundled up from full back. Martin Fey (also having scooted up from defence) pushed the ball out, Martin Palmer made amends for his previous error with the perfect stop and Tom drove a rising shot at goal. The keeper got the bottom edge of his glove to it and it made that lovely sounding clunk as it hit the back board. The goal was given, although S Glos felt that had it not been gloved it would have been over the back board, but it was one of those that was difficult to spot. The whistle went for another valuable three points that should ensure the Cardinals remain in division 3, which was the summer's first objective. To achieve that before the end of June shows just what the team has achieved. The next task is to see how high we can finish. Thanks go to everyone who played on a hot evening and Andy Cameron for umpiring. Both umpires and all the players played the game in an excellent spirit.

Coatesy's Corner: It appears to be the same old story for the 2's. Play well in the first half, agree to work on a few things in the half time talk and then it never quite happens that way. Robbies opened the scoring, only for Dave Dineley to grab a well taken equaliser soon after. The 2's defence then decided to allow one of the Robbies forwards to spin on numerous occasions into the D where he then slotted the ball home. 2-1 at half time and not playing too badly with just a few things to work on. Apart from small patches in the second half we never really got going and allowed a good Robbies side time and space to work the ball into the D - eventually the goals came and Robbies eventually ran out 7-1 winners. Thanks to Nick Morton for umpiring and the supporters who if nothing else enjoyed the evening sunshine.

Krebs' call: And lo it came to pass, 11 men and boys of the Westbury Bluebottles found themselves at the Hand Stadium in the fair burgh of Clevedon and Yatton. Before them stood 11 Gryphons resplendent in Yellow. Before battle lines were drawn, the leader of the Bluebottles said unto them, "pass the ball around the oppo, lest ye try and force it through and get caught on the break." Lo, the battle commenced, overseen by Steven of the Alger and a beguilingly pretty young wench from the Burgh of Yatton. Opening exchanges were confined to Bluebottle's pressurising the Gryphons into their own 23. Threatening as the looming thunderclouds, pressed Bluebottles into the land of the Gryphons, wave after wave repelled the Gryphons until the wave broke upon the shores and the Gryphons went a goal up. Bluebottles alas regrouped and succeeded in opening more holes in the Gryphon's ranks, using guile and cunning to lead individual Gryphon's to lay their sticks flat on the ground as the Bottle's hoped the sticks would miraculously disappear and allow the ball through. The battle raged in its first half, and once more did the Bluebottle's attempt this feat. As the opening clashes waned, the Gryphons went in 2-0 up. And lo it came to pass, 11 men and boys of the Westbury Bluebottles found themselves at the Hand Stadium in the fair burgh of Clevedon and Yatton. Before them stood 11 Gryphons resplendent in Yellow. Before battle lines were again drawn, the leader of the Bluebottles said unto them, "pass the ball around the oppo, lest ye try and force it through and get caught on the break" Taking this to heart, the Bluebottles defence once again took advantage of the miraculous feat of the disappearing front stick. Sensing tremors far off in the ether, the leader of the Bluebottles switched to a 3-4-3 formation, immediately the Bottles responded and the score stood firm at 2-1 with Andrew of Smerald striking a blow for good. And lo, in response the curse of the disappearing front stick intervened and the Bottles were looking good at 2-2. Maximillion de' Longden jousting his way to find the net. The balance of power lay in the hands of the Bluebottle's king who rallied his troops just in time to go 3-2 down as the magical disappearing front stick intervened to challenge the Gryphons with 4 attackers against the Bluebottles keeper. Time and again the tactic was employed by the Bluebottles and time and again the Bottle's keeper smote the onrushing knights of Gryphon. As the heat bore on, and the game endured, Sir Andrew of Smerald struck again after some truly inspirational work from the Bottles midfield and attack, using the disappearing front stick routine to full advantage, this observer can report the score was leveled true at 3 goals apiece. Out of sportsmanship rather than common sense did the Bottles employ the curse time and again to ensure that their fair hosts never felt as if they may not win the game. And lo it came to pass that the magical disappearing front stick, like Jesus of Suburbia, is a lie, and every time the Bluebottle's employed the hoax, they gave away either a goal or a goalscoring opportunity. It only comes to this observer to thank Steve Alger for his solid and respectful umpiring performance, stepping in at the last minute, likewise Chris, Psycho, of Poulsom who aided ably on both the left wing and the right. Also to thank our hosts Somerset Gryphons who despite other teams in their domain, played with good humour and on the whole, a sporting attitude. Finally to Mr Joe Thomas who coached ably on the sidelines, perhaps an omen of things to come as the Bluebottle's usher in a new era that is perhaps not chosen by the club, but we will prevail. The king is dead, long live the king.

Ratcliffe's Ramble: A game of two halves.Bath Banzis came off of the blocks looking the stronger team, and I’m afraid the Devils got a bit dispirited at being passed around and beaten on and off the ball. Heads went down and we suffered a visible loss of aggression and commitment, particularly in midfield. Easy for me to say, watching from the sideline, still hamstrung. Anyway, half time = 0-3 down. I put my hand up, as they say, to probably not positioning the players to the best advantage in the first half. A few positional changes followed at half time which gave us a better shape. During the course of the second half our spirit seemed to return and, with it, individual players’ commitment and work rate. Two goals apiece during the second half was a fair reflection of play, so the final result was 2-5 against. There were some great attacking moves during the second half. We had more good chances than just the two that went in. The Devils are clearly benefiting from experience in the forward line in the shape of Tony Webster.Ed Minchin shone at centre mid in the second half. Tom Fishley showed great pace and skills on the ball also during the second half. George Minchin put in some very good tackles and disruption in defence. Alex Maydew kept up his work rate all through the game, particularly when moved to midfield, until he unfortunately had to retire hurt. Ian Cook was as usual consistently hard working and Ben Lipfriend had his usual strong game when returned to his natural centre forward position at half time.Our first goal came from an Ian Cook strike into the D, deflected at goal by Peter Ratcliffe, with the rebound off the keeper’s pads popped in by Ben Lipfriend. The second goal was a beauty. Webster was on the ball just off the left post. A defender collided with him. Tony found himself on the floor but somehow, still grounded, twisted through 180 degrees and reverse cut the ball into the corner of the net.Joe Petch had a very good game in goal. Despite the five that went in (all decent shots) he probably pulled off double that in saves, and is starting to show a readiness to go down, and to play the ball away with his stick when down.Joe is therefore my runner up this week, but MOM goes to Peter Ratcliffe for doing a sterling job in both defence and attack at different ends of the game. His lateral runs from the centre forward position during the first half were excellent and his appropriate pushing forward from right and centre defence during the second half started off the build-ups in several of our attacks and showed a good ability to read the game. This young gentleman is developing into a class act. It’s in the genes. I’ve got to acknowledge Banzis who were gentlemen throughout and played tough hockey with a real modesty that was very refreshing. Thanks also to Reston for umpiring once again, to guest players Jack Chalk and AJ, and to Jeanette and Max Longden who came to support - the latter of whom so nearly got a game!!

Krebs' call: 3 weeks since the last game suggested that the Bluebottles would be a rusty and lethargic team going into their must win game against Indians who fielded no less than 3 westbury players. Bluebottles fielding a younger than usual squad, welcomed into their ranks for the first time, Mr Jon Elms and Mr David Dineley returning after 3 weeks on the sidelines.The game started in typically positive fashion for the Bluebottles, some good balls scything through the Indian's defence. The possession paid dividends with a short corner fairly early into the game with Andy Smerald putting the ball between the legs of the goalkeeper and into the bottom of the goal. A second goal courtesy of a superb low drive from debutante Dave Dineley put a complexion on the game that was perhaps just in terms of possession but flattering to the bluebottles in terms of tactical nous. A lot of flat defending rewarded Indians with some intuitive balls forward that served to more than trouble the Bluebottles defence calling the goalkeeper into action in a good few occasions. Soon the Indians capitalised on this with a free attacker at the top of the D, receiving the ball, going for a chinese take away, returning after a few beers and then picking his spot in the top right of the goal missing the goalkeeper who was desperately trying to deflect it with his head. A period of Bluebottles possession lasting mostly 35 minutes ended with a typical Bottle's mistake, trying to skin 4 players on the 23 who promptly obtained the ball and went 4 on 1 with the goalie, managing to get the ball into the bottom left of the goal despite a heroic dive by Terry who took the keepers lead from the first goal and tried to stop the ball with his face. Luckily for Terry and unluckily for the Bottles, he failed and the first half ended 2-2.A good talking to at half time saw a revitalised bottles acknowledge the positives that could be taken in terms of out and out possession and higher quality than the oppo, but realising that silly mistakes and trying to drive through the front sticks of attackers was only going to end in a thrashing. Stepping onto the pitch in the 2nd half, the Bluebottles sought to consolidate and move the ball faster, sooner. This was apparent from the offset when many of the silly mistakes of the first half were visibly missing. Some truly superb running from Max Longden onto inspired first time balls forward from Chris Cutts and quick movement across the pitch from Struan allowed the Bottles to retain even more possession than they had previously however the defence of the Indians held strong and it was against the run of play that the Indians were to go 3-2 up prompting a response from the Bottles that is indicative of the spirit that is beginning to engulf the Westbury 1XI. Bottles promptly sauntered up the pitch and Mr Hill, thus far fulfilling his usual role everywhere on the pitch managed to grab an equaliser less than 2 minutes after conceding. The game was on. Having said that, the game was also open. Indians started to get some incisive passing together and started to make the Bluebottles defence work hard. This was well absorbed by a combination of Stuart Blake's calming if refreshingly vocal influence at the back, Mace's new found ability to chase lost causes and upend them without getting called up for it and Terry/Charlie Knight's refusal to stop running with their marker. Also of note was some good tracking back from Liam who was making his comeback at right mid. It was with some annoyance then that the umpire awarded what can only be called a scandalous short corner for a safely raised ball that was controlled easily by the solid Andy Smerald before he moved the ball away safely and up the pitch, being called back by the umpire's insistence that if andy had not succeeded in controlling the ball perfectly, it might have then become dangerous. Sadly this ridiculous decision gave Indians a 4-3 lead which was not entirely deserved, but a well worked move across the goal to an unmarked man on the far post was a cute goal well earned by the Indian's short corner routine.This, perhaps being a candidate for short corner Nazism of the season was quickly usurped by a truly hysterical/mind boggling decision by the same umpire 5 minutes later, Charlie, defending the left baseline faced a ball fired at him very quickly to his reverse side, moving his stick with considerable dexterity he succeeded in stopping the ball on his reverse only for it to dribble over the base line, the umpire sensing a 2 goal lead perhaps, awarded a short corner for deliberately hitting the ball over the back line. Luckily a combination of good tackling from the 2 short corner runners stopped this travesty from affecting the outcome of the game and instead heralded a never-say-die attitude from the bottles who started to really press for the equaliser in the dying minutes of the game.This writer is glad to report that this attitude succeeded in earning a well deserved 4th goal as Struan converted after a melee in the D prompting some good saves from the Indian's goalkeeper but to the delight of the assembled masses, the game ended 4-4.Many positives to be taken, foremost must be the auspicious debuts of both Jon Elms who performed sterlingly at left mid, showing up some more experienced and supposedly talented players with a mature performance helping to set up some decisive attacks. Dave Dineley marking his debut not only with a well taken goal, but showing why many in the club hope he can maintain his current form and positive attitude sensing good things from both these young guys.Also of note was the return of Stuart "piddsy" Blake who slotted into defence as if he had never left. Chris Cutts interplay with his fellow strikers and midfielders was as effective as it was fast.
Rich Hill letting himself down by only scoring 1 goal this week turned in a solid performance linking up well with midfield ably led in attack by Struan Wilkins.here was not a player on the pitch who should be disappointed with their overall effort and work rate during tonight's game, especially coming from behind twice in the second half, however an unerring desire to hold onto the ball in frankly idiotic locations served to allow indians a point that otherwise they would have had no chance of obtaining. These small errors leading to big turnovers need addressed before Bluebottles can really hope to step forward and challenge for titles in the future.Many thanks to Cocksy who is fast becoming Bottle's umpire of choice with another solid and intelligent display, and to the Indians who played with their expected level of camaraderie and gentlemanly conduct. A good game was played which could have gone either way. Many thanks to the Bottle's for their effort, playing for an entire 70 minutes is a refreshing change for a Westbury 1XI and bodes well for the future.

Palmer's prattle: We were outplayed and out gunned by a strong O Bristolians Vinyards team. They were essentially their winter 2nd XI and were were a Liquorice Allsorts of Wizards, Warriors and Widgets. Our usual defensives strengths seemed like frailties as Vinyards opened up a 3-0 lead in as many minutes. Their first goal was a cracking strike from the top of the D. Many of their other goals (and there were many) seemed to be when the ball, hit a Westbury stick or pads and rolled kindly to an unmarked OBs player, who prodded it in from a metre out. We started the game with three of the squad missing the team talk and arriving after the start. By the time they were ready to come on the game was effectively over as a contest and merely a damage limitation exercise. We certainly missed Martin Fey's organisation at the back. A quarter of an hour in were 5-0 down. However, our one decent attack, saw late arrival, Harry Newington bang in an individual goal from the top of the D. Vinyards then carried the game back to our end and by half time were 7-1 up. The second have needed a lot of resolute play, because OBs looked capable of getting 20! Will Jones had assumed Martin Fey's role at sweeper and was responsible for some good tackles, the defence worked hard to stay alive against a quick, skillful side. OBs added four more goals, whilst James Pope was unlucky to see his shot come back off the post. We were clearly out of our depth on the day, but we did stick in and managed to pressure their defence a lot more in the second half. We also had the tired legs of Will Jones, Martin Rees and Jack Chalk who all stepped in as late replacements for some of our regulars. Thanks must also go to Andy Cameron, who is earning his umpire level 1, not only playing the new rules, but having an OBs side who uncharacteristically were doing a lot of Aussie like 'sledging', particularly from the dug out on the home umpire's side. We will need to regroup for our next game against S Glos. We need our players to be there for the start, this was the third time this season that more than two players had missed the start time. Meet time for S Glos will be 7:00pm at Golden Hill! Our strength has been our team spirit and organisation, that is something that starts in the pre-match preparation.

Feymous' last words: The Cardinals three match winning (and clean sheet) run was brought to an end by Clinkers, who were the fastest, strongest and most skilful collection of players we've faced so far this summer.Although Clinkers had plenty of the play from the start, we surprised them by taking the lead after ten minutes through James Pope (on the end of a good move involving Jamie Cranfield and Duncan Ogilvie) and we actually had some good chances to go further ahead, but they were not taken. Clinkers equalised in the latter stages of the half and we turned round 1-1. As has been our habit we scored fairly early in the second half, James Pope finishing off a good team move after some determined battling in the goalmouth by Harry Newington, but they equalised again through a flicked short corner. After that they continued to look the more likely side (though James Pope missed out on his hat trick by inches). We were still 2-2 with three minutes to go and looking as though we could achieve a very creditable draw, when Clinkers broke from midfield – despite Andy Krebs’ valiant efforts around the left side of our D, the ball fell to a Clinkers player at the top of the D who had far too much time to set himself and smash a bouncing ball high into the corner of the goal as Andy desperately flung himself back across the goalmouth.To add insult to injury they scored a fourth with thirty seconds to go. It was disappointing to miss out so late in the game, but the team as usual can hold their heads up. The effort and attitude was first rate from the whole team, personified by the never-say-die Jamie Cranfield, who has been immense in midfield all summer and who will be missed when he is on holiday over the next couple of weeks. Brian Nichols remarked that he had never been in a game when he had done so much running and had so little time on the ball. A big thank you to Dave Ratcliffe and Jack Chalk who came in the day before the match, and to Andy Krebs and Terry Watts who came in on the day of the match. It was certainly handy that we had Terry in midfield as he gave us a measure of control over possession that I think we would have struggled to maintain otherwise against a team who pressured a lot high up the pitch.Finally thanks to Chris Cocks and Andy Beasant from Firebrands for doing an admirable job with the whistle in a hard-fought, competitive game.

Ratcliffe's Ramble: Probably best described as a scrappy game, I’m sorry to report that the Devils managed to snatch a draw from the jaws of victory at Gryphons. We were 4-2 up at half time, thanks to Harvey, Webster, Lipfriend and Millman S, the latter making a rare Summer appearance. Mike’s goal came from a dribble along the base line from right wing and a shot at a fairly acute angle. Ben’s was from a short corner strike. Tufty’s was nice – finding himself in possession around the centre spot, he drove straight at the goal. The opposition just backed off and let him come, so after crossing the line of the D still unchallenged, he shot and in it went! Tony’s first goal escapes me for now, but we’ll rectify that in due course.Six more goals were scored in the second half. Although Gryphons were never ahead, we let them catch us up at 6-6, and full credit to them for their tenacity. Tony’s second goal came from a shot that flew up in the air, presumably off a deflection, and looped high over the goalkeeper into the top of the net. Both a defensive and a Westbury stick were seen in the air as the ball hovered above, but Krebsy deemed neither dangerous and gave the goal, much to the consternation of the Gryphons. The second Lipfriend goal deserves a particular mention. The Gryphons defence had been caught off guard and Mike Harvey was making a lone run with the ball from the right, closing in on the keeper and otherwise unchallenged. His shot was going just wide of the left post when Ben seemed to appear at lightning speed from nowhere with outstretched stick to nudge the ball in at the post.What went wrong? Our midfield and forward attacking play was very respectable, as shown by the 6 goals for, and the young lads played a full part in that. Where I think we fell short was defensively, both in midfield and defence. Despite plenty of running, there probably wasn’t enough commitment in midfield to the challenge or to the tackle back. The defence would probably admit to a collective bad day. However it must be said that, including AJ in goal, four of the five were recruited from other teams or first-time for the club (and very grateful I am for that, otherwise we’d have given away a walkover) so they were entirely unaccustomed to playing together. Another thing we all have to work on is not giving the ball straight to the opposition!!My warmest thanks to the clubmen and others who helped us out when the regular squad, including its hamstrung captain, was beset by unavailability – Feymous, Martin Rees, Graham Aitchison (Renishaw), Tufty, Mike Harvey and young Conor Murphy – who had a decent game, as did regulars Ben Lipfriend, Ian Cook and Peter Ratcliffe.I am also grateful to Krebsy for volunteering to umpire and doing it in his usual positive style! I take my hat off to him for his Summer spirit, particularly for simply ignoring one ferocious barracking from a discontented Gryphon.MOM – Well, Webster tipped my son, and it was a close call because as well as being useful in midfield, Pete showed his adaptability with two very strong sessions of defence required by the subbing rota. However in overall fairness I have to give it this week to Ben for his two cracking goals.On a cheerful note, we won the battle of the bar 10-3.

Coatesy's Corner: Not much to report on with this one I'm afraid.The captain had a few problems raising a side but eventually traveled to Bath with 12 (thanks to those players that doubled up or helped out). We went to Bath and met a very young, quick, skillful West Wilts team. The game started and we were really never able to get going, at times in the opening half we were too slow on the ball and either got caught in the tackle or had our passes picked off - which on a number of occasions led to several West Wilts goals - who were very good at breaking down our play, moving the ball quickly and always transferring the ball to the free man. 5-0 down by half time.The second half improved slightly and we were able to enjoy longer periods of possession. At the other end they had a big old beast of a striker who had hell of a hit on him (normal and reverse) and credit to Sam for standing his ground and making some cracking reaction saves, despite the fact that he wasn't get much protection from his defence. A few more goals went in and the game finished 8-0.Hopefully the record books will forget this one.Thanks to Krebsy for coming over and umpiring and to Poker for enjoying the hockey show that West Wilts put on. Scorers: ????

Palmer's prattle: The Cardinals have moved into uncharted territory with their third successive win, in this their first venture with Division 3 hockey. This match was in many respects a carbon copy of last weeks win. It was a very hot evening and we were fortunate to have three subs to bring on fresh legs every few minutes. Shepton Mallet were not going to be any push overs and had won the previous two games when the teams met in Division 4 in previous summers. Andy Krebs and Paul Croker were the umpires, who did a splendid job, as we tried the 'new rules'. The first half ended goal less, but John Ludley's stonking short corner shot was edged behind. When it left his stick it had goal written all over it, so credit to the defender on the post! Alan Sparks saw his strike, after Harry Newington's run and cross, saved by the keeper. At the other end Shepton looked dangerous at short corners, striking the ball well, forcing Ed West into some dynamic saves to keep his goal intact. At half time we once again felt we were well in the game, never out of our depth, and capable of getting goals. Last week it took us 90 seconds of the second half to win the game. This week it took 5 minutes. Anthony Spencer had a free hit just inside on the right of the Shepton half. He took a self-hit, surged past defenders who were trying to close him down. He reached the right hand side of the D and delivered the perfect cross to James Pope who was just outside the penalty spot. James swept the ball past the keeper into the far corner of the goal. It was then an epic battle during the second half as the tireless midfield of Cranfield, Spencer, Ludley and Sparks gave every last drop of energy either moving the ball forward or chasing back to win tackles. Martin Fey was in top form at sweeper and Peter Rose, Mike Harvey and Will Enderby tackled like demons. Ed West was there behind them, so that when Shepton did get through he was able put kickers or pads in the way of their shots. He never needed to be spectacular because his good position enabled him to deal with every shot comfortably. A second goal would have been nice, but in the end the clock ran down and Westbury had their third clean sheet in a row, and 9 points out of a possible 12. This is an unexpected, yet entirely deserved start to the summer. The wholehearted energy and enthusiasm of the team is at the core of these three wins. There are no stars in this side, just 14 players who give everything for their team.

Alger's analysis: Not our best night - never really got going in the first half and went in 2 - nil down followed immediately by a 3rd straight after half time from a bobbled cross - goals like that and you know its not your night - we faced an uphill task. To our credit we battled away and got one back followed by another 2 clear cut opportunities that we failed to take. Weston were deserved winners on the night Im afraid when we simply failed to meet our own recent high standards. Nevermind though this was one of Westons top teams, if not their top one, so nothing to be ashamed of. Word of thanks to Murph for stepping in at late notice and to AJ and Tim Denner who were arguably our best players with brilliant determination and effort all night. One very positive note - the team remained very quiet and fair despite an umpire who was being assessed, clearly not having the authority or confidence for such a game. He was there helping us all out and our team respected that and I hope the watching Martin Errington realised we showed good summer spirit !!!! Onto the UWE next week.

Ratcliffe's Ramble: With all but one of the older youth unavailable for this match thanks mainly to GCSEs, and the team filled up by a mixture of willing volunteers from other squads, this was always going to be a difficult match. The Devils never really found the form of their previous outings. Our first half was the better and did see us pushing forward at times but never really looking dangerous in the opposition 25, apart from an early chance to Ned Holmes which was only denied by a good double save from Mike Lilley at the N Soms end.N Soms upped the pressure in the final 10 mins of the first half and were rewarded by a goal. It would have been two, but the N Soms umpire blew for half time between the shot being struck and the ball passing the line!!The half time talk was about each one of us raising our game to equal the level of commitment that the opposition were showing. I’m pleased to say that the team more than responded. Unfortunately, N Soms still managed to dominate the second half, particularly coming down the middle, and they spent a lot of time in our 25 and D, gaining several short corners. The Westbury defence hung together though, fending off the pressure despite the loss of George Banting when a ferocious rising ball from a free hit caught him just above the knee.The youngest in the squad, newcomer Joe Petch had his first full length game for the club. Although he wasn’t called into action much during the first half, the extra pressure in the second gave him the chance to show his potential with 3 or 4 excellent saves, at least one of which was at head height.I don’t study tables very much, and they don’t mean a lot early in the season, but it was a bitter sweet moment when I did visit the summer league website the following day to see Westbury Devils at the top and N Soms at the bottom. Nevertheless, it was a fair result on the balance of play and from the Devils’ point of view could have been a lot worse but for Joe’s saves. I therefore give him Man of the Match this week.The game was played in a good spirit throughout and ably controlled by Reston and his green card! Reston made a valiant effort to arrive on time despite puncturing a bicycle tyre in Bath, so many thanks to him and to an injured Martin Palmer who came to watch and found himself umpiring for the first 15 so that we could start on time.Thanks also to the players from other squads who helped out - including Krebsy in a cameo outfield performance!

Alger's analysis: Well as the title suggests we rolled up to defend our proud start to the season with the usual mix of players from the 3 & 4s to face the mighty - actually not so mighty now they are back in Prem - Robs. First glance and we all knew what sort of game we were in for - first team skipper plus 3 or 4 firsts players backed up by many 2 and 3s . To cut a long story short we played very well again in the first half and went in all square at nil nil - it wasn't a backs to the wall effort we did play some good hockey and caused them plenty of problems which was ace to see - and I think probably surprised them a bit. Anyway it then went a little wrong - two goals in as many minutes straight after half time followed by another courtesy of Beesley taking it past Murphy and firing it into his own net and then falling over and knocking the whole goal over - who said he'd lost weight ........................We did get a cracker of a goal back with Will Jones supplying Bomber Harris who in turn fed Pieman Poulsom for a brilliant finish from a narrow angle. That gave us some reward for our efforts but they struck three more times to win 6 - 1 - and before anyone from the team reports on it the final goal was a comedy of errors from yours truly who passed to Bees in the D when I should have cleared it - straight to Wobbler who promptly said thanks very much !Overall another very good performance from a changing team and not bad considering they had so many top players for them - all played in a good summer league atmosphere with exception to one short chap who Bees took a dislike to !!! Finally - thanks to the umpires who both did a very good job!

Ratcliffe's Ramble: I don't quite know what to say about this game - you will sense my disappointment as you read on.Most of the play was in the opposition half but our many attacks came to nothing. Their goalkeeper, who was about three times larger than any other I have ever seen and seemed to cover the whole goalmouth when he went down, had a lot to do with it, but they were also a very disciplined and coordinated side. With the exception of your reporter, all our midfield and forwards played very well in attack - short sharp hockey, making the ball do the work, running off the ball, good skills, but not quite deadly enough in the D. Perhaps we just needed a bit more age and physical presence up front, but that is not to detract from the ability and sheer effort of our young people. In fact Ned Holmes was very unlucky not to put us one up after 5 mins but the OB's keeper somehow blocked his double shot.It was 0-0 at half time. OBs got ahead 5-10 mins into the second half when a short period of sustained pressure paid off. Newcomer Joe Petch, being coached by Clint, who had a clean first half, saved the shot but was beaten by a slap off the rebound. All credit to the Devils, who kept their heads up. A tactical switch, bringing the captain back into defence and pushing up visiting superstar Will Holmes, eventually led to our goal. Will, the ball somehow glued to his stick all the way from our 25, got himself fouled in the D. I didn't see the detail but Statsman did and instantly awarded a penalty, which was duly converted in style by Jez ( "The Flickmeister" ) Longden. The Devils piled on the pressure after that, including a final-whistle double short corner which so nearly brought off the decider - but didn't: final result 1-1. MOM - difficult, but I'm awarding it to Alex Maydew for tireless running, including numerous successful tackles back. Other special mentions to: Alex Yuill for skills, distribution and workrate; Peter Ratcliffe for some cool shots and quality short corner push outs; Ed Minchin for strength on the ball and good passing; George Minchin for one of the best defensive games I've seen him play and some very nice one-twos; and Jez, Will and George Banting for clinical - nay, surgical - defence. Thanks also to: Carol (Will and Ned's Mum) who came to watch and ended up running the subs; Martin Palmer for umpiring; and Jack Chalk and Will Holmes for helping out at short notice.

Krebs' call: An optimistic air could be sensed around the Bluebottles' camp which composed a mixture of new and older faces who were back in the squad trying to reclaim their place after last weeks triumphant win away to Blazers. On the whole, a very strong squad started the game as Bristol and West, in their customary style, forgot they were not playing Indoor and lined up with a decidedly pessimistic half court press.The game started in jittery fashion with a few nervous passes going astray and early movement somewhat more muted than this writer would have hoped for. Gradually however we began to shift the half court laterally and Terry's quick balls down the line to the evergreen Phil Cochram and Andy Smerald started to bear fruit in the form of long corners, the odd short corner and even on occasion, a shot on goal.
It was clear from the outset that breaking down an 11 man defence was going to be a slow methodical task, and this was indeed the case when Mr Smerald finally broke the tense deadlock after some quick passing allowed him to get a shot away after some taking the ball past a few defenders and into the clear in the D. Unlike in past times, this did not prompt a session of dribbling up one's 4rse and Bluebottles continued to dominate possession, if not with much to show for it in finishing. Halftime passed without much incident other than the inspirational talk from Mace, "We play better when you pass to me" succeeding in cementing the unanimous opinion that Mace should not receive the ball in the second half.In the second half, we started as we finished the first half, slowly. We proceeded to make heavy weather of a pitch which was as forgiving as it was flat, and it took some good efforts from Max Longden up front coupling well with balls forward from Nellor and through from Reston who had taken to sweeping in a somewhat more orthodox fashion than we are used to seeing. According to our Social Secretary the second goal was scored "by the same chap who got the first one and it went in the back of the net" (The scorer was actually Rich Hill). Given that is 100% more than this writer knew, I will take it.This prompted the traditional moaning and violence we all begin to know and love from Bristol and West, with a particular hissy fit being taken because Will Holmes had the temerity to continue tackling despite being half the age and twice the talent of the old farmers daughter he was marking. One particularly unsavory "accident" threatened to put an end to Rich Hill's game after tackling a player, the player decided that a good follow through and body check was required and Mr Hill had to take 5 whilst Mr Price put him back together. Further whinging and childishness followed which Bluebottles failed miserably to rise to, and continued to play mature, if somewhat jaded hockey and closed out the second half with easily 80% of the overall possession which in an ideal situation would have yielded more goals if it had not been for some very good saves from the oppo goalie.2-0 was the final score with thanks to both the umpires who kept a good lid on what was a tense game. Slider stepping in at the last minute to help out umpiring and the B&W umpire who had a good fair game. Thanks to the good crowd who came to watch, despite Struan trying to take out as many of the girls as possible. A good win however we were sluggish in moving the ball which served only to aid the pessimism shown by the opposition. We will need to learn to offload the ball and use the pivots, both high and low to better effect if we are to prevail against more mobile and attacking foes in the future.
Thank you Bristol and West for the game. Roll on Thornes next Wednesday.

Ratcliffe's Ramble: There was a warm glow around two tables in the lounge bar of the White Horse, Hambrook earlier this evening. Not only did the Devils, fielding 8 youth players, win the battle of the bar 11-2 but they had also won the hockey 4-2.Peter (“That’s m’Boy”) Ratcliffe opened the scoring from a move that started with Yuill and Webster on the left, passed in to Ed Minchin, top D, who slipped right to Pete to put firmly past the player on the line. Until then, Bristol & West B had had the majority of possession for the first 10-15 minutes with multiple players pressing into the Westbury D, a tactic which ultimately proved to be their downfall (read on) though it constantly stretched - and to start with confused - the Westbury defence.The first goal was followed soon after by Webster’s first for the Devils with the B&W keeper now on the pitch, resulting in the Devils being 2-0 up, but not complacent, at half time. B&W opened the second half strongly in much the same fashion as the first, with repeated forays into the Westbury D. Half way through the second half the score had been leveled to 2-2, and would have been more but for some fine saves from Sam, including an impressive double, and some fine defending from Longden Snr, Banting Snr, Andy (“Not Jurgen”) Cooper on his club debut, and (dare I say it?) Ratcliffe Snr, your unbiased reporter.It would have been very easy for a team of mainly young, tired and not over-experienced players to have lost heart at this point and let the match slip, but the Devils hung on and continued to play with the nice combination of hard work, skills and short passing that characterised their whole game. This persistence paid dividends and before long Webster had added his second. The Devils pressed on, increasing their attack rate, and winning the upper hand by getting behind the B&W midfield that was not getting back after their own attacks (the promised downfall).The killer goal was a joy to behold and came about 10 minutes from the end. the move was started by Jez taking a quick 16 on the left. The ball was worked all the way down the left by a series of short one-touch passes in which numerous Westbury players were involved, ultimately finding its way to Ned Holmes’ stick part way into the D on the right. Ned banged it in. B&W had been comprehensively beaten by pass and run, not stick work, across the whole length of the pitch. The grin on Jez’s face was blinding.It has to be said that B&W were unlucky not to convert rather more of their many scoring opportunities and a 4-4 draw would not have been an unfair result on the balance of play, but you don’t get results on the balance of play and the Devils won this game deservedly through guts and good hockey.In addition to the players already named, Fishley, Ed Minchin and Cook were excellent in midfield, and Yuill and Maydew both showed great skills on the ball - and also the ability to release before getting bogged down, which was a problem that beset the team last year. Pete Ratcliffe had a fine game too. Where we do need to improve as a team is on all midfielder's understanding their defensive roles, which is really up to us older hands to explain.MOM – Webster, for two goals and always being where he was needed. Finally, thanks to Sam for stepping in to keep at short notice, also Andy for playing at short notice, and to Jack Chalk for umpiring and doing it very well.

Palmer's prattle: At home to Bath Cobwebs, the Cardinals knew they were in for a testing game against a City of Bath team, who during the winter, beat the third team by a mile. The pre-match talk was about how to adapt our formation to deal with their expected onslaught. Everyone was motivated, knowing that the next 70 minutes was going to see how we would fare against one of the strong sides in division 3. The Cardinals started at speed and spent the first five minutes of the game holding on to the ball well, moving it around and gaining a lot of confidence in the way we played. Cobwebs in turn had some good attacks. Man for man their may have been slightly superior in skill, but the Cardinals worked effectively as a team and were equal to them. Ed West was called into action with a fantastic double save. His left foot took the sting out of a shot heading for the corner of the goal. A Bath forward was about to pounce on the ball, when Ed, with his almost immediate second touch, kicked it away from the line at full stretch to deny the visitors a goal. A goal did come, and it seemed to surprise everyone, not least the scorer. Dom Harris beat his man and passed the ball to Harry Newington deep it his own half. Harry went on one of his many powerful runs down the right wing. On this one he cut down the bye line, looking up he saw Jamie Cranfield and James Pope in the perfect positions, practically unmarked on the penalty spot and the back post, ready for the ball squared to them to be slammed in. Harry unselfishly did his best to pick them out. Even the keeper knew what he was going to do and was prepared for it. Thus the shock, because Harry's shot was slightly misplaced (and high) heading in at the near post. The keeper, in adjusting to this move could only deflect the ball into his net off the top of his left pad. There was a sort of delayed action, before everyone realised that Harry had put us ahead. This was the confidence boost we needed. Having taken the lead last week, we couldn't build on it. This time we did. John Ludley came close to scoring from a short corner as Westbury applied pressure. Harry had already hit one amazing 50/60 metre pass from right to left, when he did it again, picking out James Pope on the left wing. James controlled the ball and cut back towards the top of the D, sucking in the last defender to force him to tackle. As James hit the D he delivered the ball left to Martin Palmer, who swept it in off the goalkeeper's chest to give the Cardinals a 2-0 lead. The whistle for half time went a couple of minutes later. Westbury were now in the driving seat. The half time talk was on how to maintain what we had achieved and build on it. Often, half time disrupts the style of play, but this time the way we played first half was extended into the second. At the back Martin Fey was a rock, in front of him Brian Nichols and Peter Rose were as sharp as they could be. Beside them they had two novice full backs in Mike Harvey and Dom Harris. They both did a superb job in their unfamiliar roles. Cobwebs, still did a lot of attacking in the second half. The Cardinals defence kept them at bay. When they did get through Ed West pulled off a magnificent diving stick save. Bath were also guilty of some wayward shooting, with a good half dozen shots going well wide. Credit must go to the defenders for putting them out of their stride. At half time it was felt that the next goal would decide the match. It came mid way through the half. John Ludley's short corner rebounded to the left side of the D. Jamie Cranfield was there, stopped the ball and then shot with his reverse stick effort flat on the ground, edging the ball past keeper and defenders into the net. The Cardinals, were now in control and despite a series of short corners, Cobwebs looked unlikely to get a goal. At the other end yet another sweeping move saw Harry Newington getting to a left wing cross and going very close to getting a fourth goal, the keeper just denying him. The midfield of Mssrs Ludley, Sparks, Cranfield and Spencer were in top form, always available for the pass, working back to help defensively, and playing a range of accurate passes to the forwards. Although Dave Money couldn't quite find his touch, his non stop running even included a trip back to his own D to clear the ball away. This was without doubt the best result, and team performance for the Cs/Cardinals since their formation in 2004. This win gives the team the self-belief to go on and add more points to the tally. Well done to the 14 on duty for the Cardinals.

Coatesy's Corner: Well another fine 'summer's' winter's evening met the seconds as they looked to build on their good performance from the previous week. This week we were up against Flames (Firebrands) boasting several national league ex-national league players. The team was hampered by one dropping out through illness, lateness due to work, and a no-show - so up stepped Andy Krebs for an outfield appearance and the chance for the rest of the team to shout at him for once. Anyway Flames were probably expecting an easy game with the score line being 8-3 last season.....but the 2nds are looking a lot stronger this year - once again great commitment and tireless running from the midfield, and some good defence and outstanding saves by Sam Banting kept Flames to only a handful of chances, (and the skipper, Nick Coates, cleared two successive short corners of the line - editor) whilst at the other end the Angels were creating chances of their own. The half ended 0-0 and the half time talk was about continuing to do the same, keeping that high level of commitment, tackling and running up.The second half started and all that good work was un-done by a few momentary lapses in concentration and some clinical finishing by Flames. This seemed to knocked the stuffing out of us and took us a while to get going again, no sooner had we done so and the third and fourth goals for Flames were scored (mental note - need to obviously work on my half time team talk).The Angels did manage to pull a goal back thanks to some strong running by Catchpole, who could have won a short corner (I thought it was a penalty stroke - but good advantage played - editor), but play was allowed to continue and he was able to round the keeper and slot the ball home (1-4). Flames got a fifth to round things off and that is how it finished.So we lost but once again was pleased with the commitment shown by the team, particularly within the first half - great effort guys. In the end I think the result reflect Flames' ability to move the ball quickly and when they had an opportunity to shot they took their chances. Thanks to Nick Morton for umpiring and to the couple of supporters who ventured out to watch, oh and to Krebs for filling in. Scorer: Catchpole

Alger's analysis: We ventured over to the scummy side of the country to Bath - not looking forward to playing a team that thumped us 7 nil last summer and 8 nil in the winter. Team consisted of a mix of players many of whom haven't played together before and several I'd never heard of - Bryer (yes the Bryer was back !!), Holiday, Stamp, Lochtman, Jacklin, Rees, Taylor M, Alger, Rickard, Walkey, Harris, Chave and Dineley. To say I genuinely feared that we would be given a very hard night was true, but what we have in the Bishops (as we seem to have throughout the club at the moment in the summer) is a willingness to work our backsides off, to play with commitment and passion - and to all scrap together and help each other. Half time was nil nil and with Nick Stamp withdrawing to go off to work. We reverted to a back four of Rees, Holiday, Lochtman and Jacklin - and what a great performance they put in. Granted all the team worked hard, especially given that the skipper reverted to abusing the umpire as he was playing so badly - could have done with an extra midfielder to replace him - but I feel special praise should go to the back four who repelled their attacks time and again - and in case they beat them the 'CAT' Bryer was back to his legendry best, with some excellent saves - Banting, Murphy, King and on that form Krebs will need to watch out in the winter. Final score a brilliant very hard earned nil nil draw and considering we went up last year and are playing a lot of top team,s we are unbeaten in two and that's something to be very proud of. One final mention to Justin Chave - he has just joined us - he was knackered and will ache for days, but he got stuck in fair play and commented on what a great bunch of lads the team is - Westbury should be proud that we have all adopted the same attitude and club spirit remains evidently strong.

Krebs' call: On the 15th day of May, 2009, eleven men of Westbury Hockey Club, took to the pitch against the intrepid men of Firebrands Blazers. The eleven Bluebottles sought out to start playing an attacking 4-3-3 formation against what was known to be a swift and attacking Blazers team. A subtext to the game was Mr Chris Cocks who kindly offered to step in and make his first team umpiring debut, only to be dropped in it at the last minute by this story teller who agreed to play the fabled "new rules" To accompanying gasps of wonder from the assembled bluebottles, a great many rules were spoken by the Blazers Umpire. It was with trepidation that the Bluebottles subsequently took to the field with their mind full of new ideas and how to use them. The first ten minutes were spent getting to know the opposition and the game promised to be a close fought affair with the experience and skills of Blazers cancelling out the free running midfield and attack that Bluebottles had sought to prevail under. Suddenly however with a fast flowing passing move, Mr Terry Watts found himself with a chance to put the Bluebottles a goal up. Facing a gut wrenching choice between moving the ball away from the end of his stick, and his more customary dribble until it gets dark. Mr Watts compromised by taking the last defender on again before slotting the ball home to cheers and gasps. Quickly afterwards, the duracel bunny aka Rich Hill put a 2nd one in to put the wind up Blazers who by this point were looking gruyere like in their defence. A last minute cameo apperance from Mr Chris Psycho was crowned with a third goal ten minutes later as Bluebottles strove to put the game beyond doubt and a Struan Wilkins 4th before half time served to compound the woes of Blazers. The second half started after a stern talking to from Mr Paul Mason on the dangers of getting caught too narrow in midfield and wide in defence. Blazers indeed as predicted by a cautionary Terry, started with vigour and apparent verve and achieved a few short corners early on in the first half. Being dealt with fairly easily by a defence growing in stature, Will holmes in particular keeping the Blazers star Irish forward in his back pocket in a fashion that given Will's junior years, could be deemed inappropriate. Andy Smerald playing back in his native left back role was dominant going foward as Reston, the sweeper camped himself back in the oppositions D, linking up nicely gave Mace an opportunity to score a quick counter attack goal after a lack of 5m discipline by Blazers at a free hit in the Bluebottles D allowed a swift passing movement to culminate in Mr Masons first ever goal. A scare later on as Blazers netted from a 4th phase short corner goal was abated as the Blazers umpire ruled it offside or something and Mr Cocks agreed. Rich Hill grabbed a 6th goal as Bluebottles sealed what can only be deemed an emphatic and mature victory from a team missing many of its star names. Thanks to all who played, especially Mr Cutts, Mr Knight, Mr Wilkins and Mr Poulsom who stepped up from their teams to help out and gave the captain a selection headache for next week. Special thanks to Mr Cocks who not only made his first team debut, but learned the "new rules" a minute before the game and proceeded to umpire them with aplomb. The team groupies, Griff, Cat and Will's Mom provided good, if somewhat cold support as always and will be welcome back next week to cheer us on!Roll on Bristol And West next week, the Bluebottles are in the zone.

Krebs' cameo: We came second to a very accomplished team of experienced (in the same way that The Roach is experienced) players. Opening the scoring early on with a mix of joie de vivre and youthful verve The Bluebottles started to make their extra speed and agility show with a mixture of passing and movement which rendered the less mobile Phantoms helpless to defend our transition balls. Andy Smerald and newcomer Charlie Knight were particularly effective in moving the ball past the Phantom's midfield. Deakin R was back for his first hockey in a while managing to successfully cut out every ball that was not any more than a foot off the ground that came within about 20ft of his surprisingly large circle of influence A couple of defensive lapses allowed the Phantoms back in with a couple of goals, one from a short corner that was poorly cleared from the keepers pads, and another from a good touch by the keepers right kicker on a ball crossed along the line and into the goal. The second of 'Bottle's goals was provided by a Mr Wornell who had risen phoenix like from his sickbed to plug a gap up front managed to smash one hard into the bottom left in a goal reminiscent of the former Mr President, Chairman Ogilvie. Unless this author is mistaken, the halftime score of 2-2 was a fair reflection on proceedings. After a good discussion at half time, The Bluebottles sought forth to apply a napoleonic ethos to their forthcoming defence, and as the half proceeded, Bluebottles were to make good on their youth and speed by dominating this game but without much to show by way of goals due to some accomplished goal-tending on the part of the Phantoms. Terry was prolific in covering much ground with the ball at the end of his stick, Rich Hill eventually stopped running when a short corner was awarded and he was not allowed to run until the ball was injected, JP's dominance of the middle of the final third was aided by his being the only player in it as Bluebottles camped in the Phantoms last quarter
This was not to be sustained however as Phantoms occasional forays into The Bluebottles half were both potent and decisive. Eventually an equaliser was found due to a slightly enthusiastic foray by 10 of The Bluebottles into the Phantom's circle resulted in a quick (relatively speaking) break for the Phantoms, a good ball forward from about 30 degrees into the circle was deflected using an indoor style through the despairing keeper and into the goal. A fourth was added soon afterwards and as the game looked to be slipping away from the Bluebottles' grasp, a third goal was scored to keep the game interesting . A solid performance was augmented by some good attacking play by the Bottles. A few defensive lapses are still to be addressed, however given the talent and technique of the opposition, a lot of positives can be taken. Thanks must go to Mr Paul Croker for his umpiring despite struggling with a broken wing, and Mr Wornell for stepping in at the last minute despite threats of divorce from his beloved if he ever picked up a hockey stick again. thanks must also go to the Phantoms, a traveling team from the land of Oz who were gentlemen throughout the game and allowed for an enjoyable 70 minutes hockey.

Coatesy's Corner: With Mr T off filming some more snickers adverts, I guess the task of writing the match reports for the 2nds /'A' Team falls to me - They won't be a patch on Mr T's epic masterpieces and I 'pity the fool' that would say otherwise. After last year's 6-1 drubbing by the 1sts in the league, the seconds knew they had a tough opening game.....this was confirmed when after 10 min's the 2nds were 2-0 down. The first goal coming almost straight from the off, with Gary Roper picking up a loose pass and getting the ball into the D, where Phil Cochram opened the scoring. The second goal was gifted to the 1sts with a Gary's shot squeezing its way through the keepers legs at the near post. So 2-0 down and things were looking glum for the 2's.However the 2's started to get themselves back into the game, with Struan Wilkins and Adam Banting in the middle winning tackles and putting pressure on the 1sts midfield. This led to some quick turnover and eventually the 2nds got their break with a goal scored by Adam Banting or Tom Colquhoun (my eyesight and memory is getting bad) (2-1). The seconds then won a short corner which was put away on the rebound by Chewie (2-2). The momentum was with the 2's and as they continued to hassle and press were rewarded with a third, thanks to some good work by Adam and then his pass to Chewie, whose touch took it past Andy Krebs (2-3). A cracking finish from Roper (a deflected shot off a through ball) leveled the score at half-time (3-3). The second half wasn't as eventful as the first - with both team tiring (probably the 2nds more so). The 1sts did enjoy more of the pressure in the seconds half (not to say the 2nds didn't have their chances). Eventually the 1sts won a short corner and scored through the old P-stop move with Neil Richardson getting the final 'hit' (and into the net!!!) (4-3).And that's how the game finished. The seconds can feel proud of their performance and have come a long way from last seasons summer league. If we continue to show that commitment and level of hassling then we should be able to get a few more results that eluded us last year .Thanks also to Nick Morton and Ali Price for umpiring. 2nds scorers: Woodward (2), TC or Banting??? 1sts scorers: Richardson (2), Cochram, Roper

Palmer's Prattle: The Cardinals took a surprise lead against Frys, but the opening spell of attacking from Westbury was very positive, and the opening goal a reward for some good play. Jamie Cranfield made the pass that found Mike Harvey outside the left post, who expertly swept it in from a narrow angle. John Ludley was unlucky not to make it 2-0 when his short corner shot was cleared of the line. Frys had the best of the middle of the first half and scored from a short to equalise. Westbury had another good spell before the break and showed that both sides were very even. The midfield duties were shared by John Ludley, Dom Harris, Jamie Cranfield and Alan Sparks, they all worked hard throughout the game. In the second half the distribution was quicker and we were able to use the pace of Harry Newington and James Pope to great effect. Unfortunately Frys went 2-1 up when their forward pounced on the loose ball after a save from Ed West. The Cardinals countered with some good attacks. A free hit on the right side of the D was delivered precisely to the left hand post for Martin Palmer to sweep high into the net. Frys came straight back and scored their third goal with just a couple of minutes. This led to another set of forward play, with Harry Newington surging into the D and James Pope picking up the ball to squeeze across the line for our second equaliser. A draw would have been a fair result, but the home team exploited a short corner awarded after Ed West batted away a high ball by scoring to go 4-3 up. With time almost up, Westbury had a big last effort and four successive shots on target were stopped in a variety of ways by the home defence, the last at the expense of a short corner. The final whistle went, so the short was the last chance. Alan Sparks had his shot saved, then their were three more follow up shots, none of which would go it. The players said afterwards that one shot was stopped by a combination of stick and foot, shades of Chelsea's disappointment on the same evening in the Champions League semi-final. Unlike Barcelona, we weren't quite able to get the late, late equaliser! This was a good team performance, especially as we have stepped up a division. Well done to everyone who took part. Thanks go to Martin Rees for traveling to umpire.

The Bishops anticipated a stern test against a Chippenham side that was good value for their win at Chippenham, during the winter against the third team. It almost went pear shaped from the start when James Holliday's stick 'caught a crab' and gifted Chippenham a 2 v 1. The forward released a good pass for a simple slap in from the left. Somehow the visiting forward got his feet tangled up and didn't get a good contact, allowing Westbury to recover and put the ball out for a short corner. Pete Murphy made a good diving tackle at the top of his D. At the other end, James Frost got a clear touch to a Dave Harris cross from the right, but was astonished that the goal wasn't given. The Bishops made up a few minutes later when nifty work from Nathan Walkey in the right hand side of the D, opened up a simple tap in from around the penalty spot from Chris Poulsom. It wasn't long before Tom Alger got into the act as well, his shot from the top of the D finding the corner of the goal. There was more to come when Nathan Walkey got away with chipping the ball up near a defender on the 25, got it under control and stormed up to the D, drew the keeper, drifted wide to his right and expertly struck the ball back into the goal. The second half was a pretty even affair with Chippenham getting a consolation goal. The team worked hard for each other and the early passes that were being cut out, disappeared in the second half, when passing was much crisper and accurate. A good start for the Bishops in their new division.

Palmer's Prattle: Its always been said that "History is written by the winners." Yes the Cardinals did win this opening friendly of the summer by 2-1, but there were no losers. Dave Ratcliffe, ably supported by, Jez Longden, George Banting and Clint Bryer were surrounded by the Devils 'Young Guns' who put up an impressive performance against the much more experienced Cardinals. It shows what the youngsters have learned after a first winter season. Tom Fishley looked in control in midfield, Ed Minchin starred in the middle, Ben Lipfriend held the ball well in attack and Greg Slater was composed at the back. Add to that Alex Yuill, Alex Maydew, Peter Ratcliffe and Nick Slater showed their skills. Ned Holmes shone in possession of the ball and Ian Cook impressed despite being the odd one out, having not played during the winter at Westbury. The game opened with the Cardinals pressing the Devils defence deep into their own half. Two very good scoring chances for the Cardinals came and went, with Clint pulling off some vital saves. Both sides played some good hockey, but both attacks weren't quite able to find the decisive opening to get the first goal. The Devils had a good spell midway through the half and Ed West had to use his feet well to save several successive shots. James Pope was putting in some great overlapping runs. He ran into the solid wall known as Jez a couple of times! However, another attack saw him play a one-two with Martin Palmer leaving him clear in the D with Jez stranded. James coolly slotted the ball past Clint. The Devils were by no means out of it, they rallied and within minutes were level. Ben Lipfriend surged into the D. His shot sat invitingly for either Alan Sparks to clear, or Alex Yuill to score. Alex was a tad quicker and the equaliser was obtained. In the second half The Devils introduced a young goalkeeper. It shows how well the Devils played defensively, because he was rarely called into action. The deciding goal came again from the stick of James Pope. Alan Sparks and Dave Money had moved the ball forward. Pete Thomas was on the top of the D with Jez closing him down. He cleverly laid the ball off to the left where James had arrived for the square pass. James slapped the ball, and whether by accident or design, it looped high over the keeper and just under the crossbar for a spectacular goal. This was a good work out for both teams. It also shows the strong position we are in as a club when we can field 11 youngsters who have improved through playing adult hockey.