A bright sunny October morning to play hockey in Portsmouth! Good start. 11 players turn up, even better.
Not just any 11, the pick of the 4s and a few junior helpers (Aidan and Tom). But no Christmas yet. Work to do!
And with no goalie and playing 11 outfield there was no faulting the entire team for their effort, working up and down the pitch, covering the numerous Portsmouth breaks and creating some good goal scoring opportunities. With no keeper there were some easy finishes and hard hit shorts by Portsmouth in the first half which ended 5-0. A much closer game in the second half with great closing down, tackling and more goal scoring chances. But just couldn't get that last hit on goal.
All our juniors (Lewis, Alfie, Theo, Tom and Aidan) were applauded by the oppo and from us more senior players for their determination and skills and never giving up.
A fair result in the end with no injuries (major that is) and everyone getting 70 minutes and having fun. That's my match objectives met. Winning would have been a bonus! Its the taking part and experience that counts.
MoM was overwhelmingly Lewis for his match play + skills and DoD to Tony for his Green and never giving up arguing with the umpire in the nicest possible way. Although there were a few more DoD candidates for poor map reading to the clubhouse and someone who will remain nameless for not being able to open the clubhouse door on exiting! 
Thanks to our brave 11, our supporters and Gibbo for providing pitch side coaching.
A couple of weeks rest before we go again on the 15th November. Go Shots
(Picture courtesy of the Broad Oak Social Club, Portsmouth). I told you we had fun!!!