- Youngsters Ensuring The Future Is Bright For Town
Newmarket Ladies 1’s v Huntingdon ladies 1s – 3-0 win to Newmarket
With just a handful of games left to play the ladies’ 1st needed to take 3 points from league bottom team Huntingdon, but this proved a tougher task than expected.
With league toppers Rutland beating the same side 10-1 Newmarket were hoping to emulate a similar score however as in a previous meeting they proved tricky opposition to overcome for Town and the first half was a very even game. Despite good build up play Newmarket found they lacked in providing the final pass to connect with goal. Finally Newmarket opened the scoring – Di Thomas getting her twelfth goal of the season; she snatched a cheeky deflection of Beth Wombwell’s shot ahead of the keeper’s foot leaving the ball to trickle inside the post.
Huntingdon were still looking like they could turn the game around with an unexpected break so Newmarket needed to be on top form to quash their rivals. Town looking cooler after the break; they switched the play more and used the left side to better effect. They were meeting passes earlier and reading tackles as well as releasing the ball quicker. Short corner drills were also coming together with shots being executed from Claire McDonnell, Hayley Stoneman and Lydia Evans.
With ten minutes remaining Newmarket were in control but needed goals to seal the victory…up stepped player of the match Beth Wombwell. With superior movement and pace up front she received a pass from April Atkinson and swept the ball into goal. Just five minutes later she repeated the movement via a pass from Angel Fayers and got her brace-confirming 3 points for her team and keeping the league title dream alive.
The ladies 2s played Rutland at home on Saturday. After losing 3-1 to Rutland earlier in the season, Newmarket knew they had to step up their game if they wanted to get the win and with a 16 strong squad they knew they were capable of taking up the challenge. The first half wasn’t underway long when in the tenth minute Tracy Cockerill for Newmarket scored the first goal from a pass from captain Zoe Bailey which she flicked over the top of the Rutland goalkeeper. The formation Newmarket were playing was slightly different to normal and with Sam Brooke playing as a sweeper a longside Anna Parker and Sarah Ganiford in defence it wasn’t until nearly the end of the first half that Rutland found their way through the defence with a goal to equalize. Jade Atkinson showed her versatile skills throughout the game and enjoyed the chance to play out on pitch as she often plays a goalkeeping position. The second half was action packed from the onset and when Rutland were awarded a penalty flick a few minutes in, Newmarket goalkeeper Sue Bullimore kept her cool to ensure a great save which secured her the man of the match award. Harriet Briggs, Kerry O Hara and Maddie Rule both had good individual games again and Newmarket were showing some good strong play in the second half with some strong passes between the midfield and wingers. A run down the right wing by Verity MacMahon who crossed the ball over the line secured Newmarkets second goal putting them ahead again. The final result was 2-1 to an ecstatic Newmarket Ladies 2s.
Ladies 3’s:
After a poor start while Newmarket worked out their formation and 2 goals slipped past the defence and goal keeper, Newmarket start to look strong and spent much time near the oppositions goal but were kept at bay by the st neots team. They restarted the second half confident they could regain the two goals lost but one St Neots player in particular caused Newmarket many problems and the game finished 8-0 to St Neots despite some elegant runs from Newmarket player Phillippa Wade who was awarded player of the match.
Mens’ 1’s: Cambridge South Men’s 2nd XI 0 – 2 Newmarket Men’s 1st XI
Newmarket made the short trip to Cambridge for this early 10am start, too many peoples surprise captain Wilson made the meet on time 8:30, even though he doesn’t often get up at that time for work!
Newmarket were a few men light. Dave Worrall had to work (planning the next global financial crisis in between topping the pen holders). Matt Holden is still injured with his policeman’s heal. Josh Dawson was too injured to play, but did walk away with the best dressed supporter award, this should be qualified as Pete Boyle was the only other male supporter. If only I was female and 20 year younger! Fortunately James Wrinch stepped up from second team duty last week and acquitted himself so well at right back he deservedly won the man of the match award! Anyway back to the game.
This was always going to be a tricky game, South’s second team played well when the teams met in Newmarket before Christmas with the scores close until the last 20 minutes when Newmarket pulled away. They have a strong defensive record and are only down the bottom through their inability to score enough goals.
As expected Newmarket dominated possession, Mike Skelton was always available up front the midfield of Wade, Andreou, Leggett and Bell worked hard. Defenders Wrinch, Harrington, Newnes and Wilson played the ball round the back well and prevented South from any real clear cut scoring opportunities.
In the first half Newmarket won a raft of penalty corners, they were unable to capitalise on the first handful, through a combination of cat like reflection from the South keeper and routines just not flowing as they should.
Newmarket began to get frustrated and Andreou was asked to spend a little time with his own thoughts after questioning one too many unfavourable umpiring decisions, his time off was quite rightly extended when he berated the umpire from the sidelines. This seemed to galvanise Newmarket, who with 10 men took the lead. Skelton was sent free of the South defence and slotted home from the top of the D.
South wobbled a bit, especially when their centre back passed to Mark Pears at the top of the D from a 16 yard hit. Unfortunately for Newmarket Pears caught the ball well but pulled it just wide. Newmarket then scored a second from a penalty corner, Simon Harrington poor drag flick wrong footed the otherwise excellent keeper and bobbled in at the near post.
Before the end of the half South forced a little flurry of penalty corners, these were either blocked by Chris Routs in goal or postman Simon Harrington.
Newmarket were 2 nil up at half time which is how it stayed, it was scrappy second half when Newmarket hurried possession, wasted penalty corners and were almost caught on the break.
Next week Newmarket will need to be much sharper against South’s first team, but if you look at the results this season they have always performed better against the stronger teams, something that should stand them in good stead for next week encounter. The target is simple a draw, with Newmarket superior goal difference will almost guarantee promotion, but a victory is needed to keep the pressure on leaders Wisbech. We’re heading into the business end of the season and its getting interesting!
Next weeks game starts at 15:30 at Newmarket Leisure Centre, a big crowd to roar the boys on would be greatly appreciated!
Mens’ 2’s v Ely:
After last week’s long distance journey to league leaders Louth, a home game against local rivals Ely was much anticipated. With a strong team available skipper Pete Boyle was confident that three points where up for grabs.
Newmarket set their stall out from the start with strong commitment to the attack. Ely where under the cosh immediately and without some brilliant goalkeeping Newmarket would have gained an unassailable lead within the first quarter of the game.
However, it took some skilful running from James Atkinson down the wing to set up Jordan Walker for the first goal, 1-0 to Newmarket.
The game continued in the same manner and an extended time in the opposition half led to a penalty corner chance. Up steps Matt Holden to drill into the corner for a second goal. 2-0 Newmarket.
It wasn’t to go all Newmarket’s way however, as Ely broke sharply and managed a shock goal completely against the run of play. 2-1 Newmarket.
Newmarket didn’t lose their heads though, and in short order where back on the attack. A ball was played into the opposition “D” after some stunning stick work again by James Atkinson, and up steps Darren “the Dazzler” Jenkins to slot home the ball like a seasoned center forward. Pretty good for a center back.3-1 Newmarket.
Again Ely fought back, but as usual the defence of Adrian Atkinson, Mark Prentice, Darren Jenkins and Pete Boyle stood firm, as has been the case for most of the season.
The second half was an almost direct copy of the first with the midfield being dominated by Ben Gottfredson and Dave Worrall. This domination allowed a free reign for forwards Will Hosegood and Matt Holden who made Ely’s defence work hard for little reward. Inevitably another goal was scored, again by Matt Holden, who was having his usual outstanding game. 4-1 Newmarket.
This was final score line, but it didn’t truly reflect the dominance of a rampant Newmarket team. And with the contribution of youngsters Jonny Bunker, Jordan Walker, Jon-Luke Pegram and James Atkinson the future looks bright for men’s hockey in Newmarket.
- 5 Wins In One Week!
Newmarket Ladies 1’s v St Ives 2’s: 1-0 win to Newmarket
Facing St Ives for the first time this season the Newmarket ladies first team knew their opposition were going to be tricky as few teams had managed to score many past their strong defence. Playing at home Newmarket had the advantage of a crowd of supporters which fired them up making the start of the game electric as Town took the ball straight to the St Ives goalmouth. Shots were flying from Claire McDonnell, Louise Downs, Di Thomas and Beth Wombwell. The St Ives keeper stood solid and read the game well. Newmarket were passing the ball around neatly; Lydia Evans drove the ball down the right side and crossed to Downs who had made a promising run but could not quite reach the travelling ball.
St Ives began to find their feet in the game and as Town’s passing looked a little loose-they away team were quick to intercept causing Sue Bullimore to use her kicking skills in goal. Jazz Wombwell ceased the opportunity when a St Ives player spilled the ball mid pitch-she passed centrally to Claire McDonnell; she skipped passed two opposing players and slotted the ball to Hayley Stoneman. She manoeuvred around the focused defence and clipped it goal-wards; the keeper dived to try and reach the ball and an ‘on post’ defender tried to get her stick to the shot but the accuracy of the attempt meant a goal was inevitable.
The second half of the game was tense for Town and they wanted to extend their lead to secure the 3 points. St Ives were on the back foot once more but Newmarket were unable to hit the target. With tempers now beginning to fray on both teams the umpires had to regain control. The ball seemed to be nestled in midfield for the majority of that half and play was looking more even as both teams backed off tackles. Nevertheless Newmarket were looking comfortable on the ball and relaxed better than their opposition and for a passage of ten minutes were camped in the St Ives defensive zone.
The last 5 minutes of the game was incredibly tense as St Ives were executing a final push to get some points. Some crucial saves and interceptions from Bullimore, Nikki Boyle and Isabel Hooley kept Town in front. The relief was evident on the Newmarket teams’ faces as the final whistle went. The victory takes Town to the top of the league as they edge Wisbech on goal difference. With just one cup game left before Christmas this means Newmarket will be new year league leaders.
Newmarket Ladies 2s V’s Cambridge City Ladies 4s (Saturday 8th December – at Newmarket)
The ladies 2s were at home to Cambridge City 4s on Saturday and with the knowledge that Newmarket had successfully well and truly beaten them in a match at the start of the season, they hoped for another good win. The possession was evenly matched in the first half but an early goal from Verity MacMahon from some great passing in the midfield from Zoe Bailey, Loren Davenport and Rebecca Swift gave Newmarket the lead. Cambridge City were quick to come back with a goal too however. Cassie Aymes then swept the ball crashing over the line in style; it will possibly be the goal of the season. Tracy Cockerill showed she wasn’t missing out on the goal action either and made it 3-1 to Newmarket going into the second half. The score remained at 3-1 giving Newmarket another win under their belt and going into the Christmas break, on form for their next match in the New Year.
St Neots Men’s 1st XI 1 – 6 Newmarket Men’s 1st XI
Goal scorers: Mark Pears x 2, Josh Dawson x 2, Will Wilson and Chris Leggett
Newmarket travelled the short distance to St Neots with a squad of 12 determined to keep the pressure on first placed Wisbech. With St Neots at the opposite end of the table Newmarket expected to dominate and the majority of the game was played in the St Neots half with keeper Chris Routs only touching the ball once (getting it out of the net after their goal).
Newmarket scored their first goal after around 5 minutes from a penalty corner routine, Josh Dawson’s deflection was saved by the keeper, Mark Pears blocked the clearance and Dawson slammed home the loose ball.
Dawson scored the second soon after, Matt Holden won the penalty corner, Dawson deflecting Ollie Wade’s pass into the net. Newmarket were well on top, but in a rare St Neots visit into the Newmarket 25, Newmarket won the ball back, the full backs bombed on to support the attack but possession was conceded in the Newmarket half, leaving men unmarked in the D for a simple far post deflection. That’s the third goal this season the team have conceded in that fashion, something they will need to iron out in the future if keeper Routs is to maintain his sanity!
The goal didn’t seem to derail Newmarket’s attacking instincts, With Chris Leggett and Mike Skelton controlling the game in the middle and forwards running well off the ball. Mark pears scored the third from another penalty corner, before Wilson scored the goal of the game from the fifth penalty corner, beating a couple of men at the top of the D and firing into the bottom right corner.
Chris Leggett sealed a man of the match performance in central midfield with the fifth, picking up a clearance at the top of the D and rocketing into the bottom left corner. Newmarket were 5-1 up at half time but coach Nic Thorpe was less than impressed with the lack of structure and discipline against weak opponents.
Newmarket improved in all areas second half but were only able to add one more goal to their tally, scored by Mark Pears after Simon Harrington’s foray forward, he picked Pears out at the far post for a tap in. Newmarket forced countless other penalty corners but found the St Neots keeper in great form, when he was beaten a defender on the line was on hand to clear.
Strong performances were from Josh Dawson at right wing who had the St Neots left back in all sorts of trouble, driving the baseline and pulling balls back. Jordan Newnes was commanding at centre back, distributing the ball well to the full backs and midfield. Mark Pears also played well up front, after ending his goal drought last week he now has 3 in 2 weeks.
With Wisbech also winning the team remain 1 point behind, the game against them at home on 26th January looking increasingly important, some exercise and restraint on turkey consumption will be required during the Christmas break if Newmarket want to ensure they are promoted as champions!
Newmarket Mens 2′s v Grantham: 4-0 win to Newmarket
After some good wins over the previous few weeks, Newmarket Mens 2′s where looking to build on the momentum gained from these wins. With Mark Prentice returning from his Antipodean Adventure, and Ben Shepperson gracing us after returning from University, Newmarket where able to field a full strength side once again.
This strength showed from the start with opponents Grantham immediately on the back foot while Newmarket pressed hard for the first goal which came from the stick of goal machine Will Hosegood, 1-0 Newmarket. The home team continued to press looking for another goal to consolidate their superiority with the midfield duo of Adam Gallop and Ben Gottfredson dominating throughout the midfield, supported ably by wingers Sam Imrie and Will Balding, Grantham had no answer to Newmarket’s rampant attack and a second goal was inevitable. Up steps that man Hosegood again to calmly slot in his and Newmarket’s second. 2-0 Newmarket, and this is how the half ended.
The second half began, as so often before, with Newmarket continuing where they left off, with Gallop and Gottfredson dominating and Grantham unable to contain the speed and skill of Imrie and Balding.
Grantham did have their moments however, but whenever they looked like breaking away, the defence of Mark Prentice, Darren Jenkins, Adrian Atkinson and Pete Boyle snuffed out the danger without fuss. Except for one moment, when a slight lapse from Atkinson, which did nothing to blight what was an outstanding performance, allowed a Grantham striker in, one on one, with young keeper Jon-Luke Peagram. However Peagram was more than up to the challenge, and with bravery and consummate timing made a fantastic save that kept the score at 2-0.
Newmarket took hold of the game again, led by some surging runs from Ben Shepperson, who finally saw some return for his labours to hit the back of the net to make the score 3-0 to Newmarket. And still Newmarket where hungry for more so Shepperson took on the task and again rifled a smart strike into the goal, 4-0 Newmarket.
This is how the game ended, with a superb win against difficult opponents which was thoroughly deserved.
- VICTORY!!
Newmarket Men’s 1st XI 5 – 0 City of Peterborough Men’s 5th XI
Goal scorers – Mike Skelton x 3, Will Wilson, Matt Holden
Newmarket went into the game against 10th placed City of Peterborough expecting a tough game, whilst occupying the place just above relegation, they’re goal difference was only -6 as most of the games they have lost have been by the odd goal. This assumption turned out to be true as Newmarket were forced to work as hard if not harder than they did last week when defeating second place Cambridge South 1’s.
Peterborough started stronger pressing high up the pitch putting the Newmarket defence of Dave Worrall, Simon Harrington, James Wrinch and Will Wilson under pressure. As Newmarket settled and started transferring the ball at pace, space opened up for Alex Andreou and Chris Leggett in the centre of midfield. With Mike Skelton and Matt Holden good movement up front creating space, Newmarket began to dominate and play the game in the Peterborough half.
Peterborough were finding it very difficult to tackle Holden, who’s skilful play was rewarded with the first penalty corner of the game, which Wilson despatch with a trademark flick. Newmarket’s tails were now up, Harry Bell, Mark Pears and Josh Dawson were linking up well in attack. The second came soon after, Andreou intercepting an aerial, driving into the 25 and playing the ball to Holden, who drew the keeper and squared for Skelton to score from close range.
The third goal came from a flowing move down the left Rodney Trotter beat a couple of players and fed Holden, who slipped to Dawson, Dawson drove the by-line and set up Skelton for another tap in. The game got rather heated for a while with both captains asked to calm their players down, the game then stopped for a blood injury to the Peterborough skipper who later returned to play resembling Terry Butcher. The two interruptions seemed to disrupt Newmarket rhythm and Peterborough finished the half strongly with a flurry of penalty corners. Routs saved the first, Wrinch cleared the second off the line and the third cannoned back from the inside of the post.
At the half time interval Coach Nic Thorpe demanded more of the same, but once again Peterborough came out hard, Newmarket knew the fourth goal would be crucial and Holden beat three players in a crowded D and calmly slotted into the bottom right corner. It still didn’t break Peterborough spirit, but Newmarket were now able to pick them off on the counter attack. The fifth goal came with Harrington switching the ball round that back at pace, Wilson fed Andreou who beat a couple of players in the 25 and set Skelton up for his hat trick.
Peterborough were awarded a few penalty corners for some strong challenges in the Newmarket 25, but the team defended these well saw the rest of the game out, backed by some tremendous support from the sidelines. How Peterborough are where they are in the league left Newmarket slightly perplexed and we would expect them to be much higher in the table when we travel there for the last game of the season.
This was the second successive great team performance, standout performers were James Wrinch who was commanding at centre back, Mark Pears, Mike Skelton, but man of the match went to Matt Holden for the major contribution to the first 4 goals.
Dick of the day had a few contenders, Josh Dawson pushing his luck a little too far with the umpiring pacing out 5 yards to concede a penalty corner, Chris Leggett for managing to throw a ball into club president Hazel Rolfe during the warm up, Harry Bell for turning an attacking long corner into a one on one for Peterborough, but the winner was Simon Harrington for his very polite “he kicked it protestations” followed by emitting a grunt Maria Sharapova would be proud of while chucking are aerial down the line!
Next week Newmarket face Cambridge Nomads at home, 3:30 start. With Wisbech 2’s winning again to maintain their one point advantage at the top of the table, nothing less than a win will do. With the second team performing well in their league following last season’s promotion, there are a few players banging on the door for promotion to the first team squad, which will give captain Wilson and coach Thorpe some hard decisions to make over the coming weeks.
Newmarket Ladies 1’s v Spalding Ladies 2’s: 4-0 win to Newmarket
After facing Spalding twice already this season Newmarket were tipped to outdo their opposition at home.
Spalding took the pushback but Newmarket intercepted straight away and this was a similar occurrence throughout the game. After a shuffle on the left of field Angel Fayers was placed on the post to deflect in a goal provided by her own short corner.
With 70% of the possession now Newmarket’s the second half was set for more goals. Claire McDonnell was next to hit the target – clipping mid D, initial play coming from exemplary passing from Isabel Hooley and Lydia Evans. McDonnell then struck again for Town, this time she used her skill to take the ball up the middle of the pitch and struck hard from the edge of the circle.
Superb defending from Nikki Boyle and Jazz Wombwell meant things were very calm out of the attacking half.
The final goal for Newmarket was courtesy of Beth Wombwell-she collected a right hand cross to put an instinctive shot in, hitting the bottom left corner.
The victory leaves Newmarket in 3rd position in the table but only 3 points away from league leaders Wisbech who they face away next week. Town also have a game in hand which could mean with 3 games left before the Christmas break they have a chance of being Christmas number 1.
Mens 2′s: 4-1 victory against Bourne Deeping.
After last weeks home victory against St Ives brought some cheer to the Newmarket camp, this week found them having what is traditionally a tough away game to Bourne Deeping. All started well however with Newmarket playing some good hockey, moving the ball well and really taking the game to Bourne Deeping. Ollie Wade and Ben Gottfredson particularly causing problems to the home defence. Eventually Newmarket won a penalty corner that Wade converted with a deft flick 1-0 to Newmarket.
The game continued through the first half in much the same manner, with Bourne Deeping unable to breakthrough the Newmarket defence, with Darren Jenkins and Adrian Atkinson working well to subdue any attack, and with Jordan Newnes and Pete Boyle at right and left back creating width Newmarkets counter attacking always had Bourne Deeping worried.
It was inevitable therefore that another goal would come, and so it did from a superb strike by Wade again, 2-0 Newmarket. Things where made a bit tougher for the visitors when Newnes was yellow carded and had to take a small sojourn on the touch line. Newmarket weren’t fazed however and still the home side couldn’t breakthrough and the score remained 2-0 at halftime.
With Newmarket back to full strength for the second half the visitors started how they ended the first half, with Will Balding and Rob Greene creating chances and making themselves busy in the Bourne Deeping area. This work was rewarded halfway through the second when Rob Greene drifted beautifully past a despairing Bourne keeper to calmly slot the ball home just after Bourne had drawn a goal back to make the score 3-1 to Newmarket. And the visitors weren’t finished, a returning Sam Imrie swept home from the edge of the area to make the score 4-1 to Newmarket. And this was how the game ended, with a deserved victory to Newmarket that reflected the effort and determination shown by the travelling side.
- Mens 2′s Face Local Rivals Ely
With no regular keeper available to Newmarket due to holidays, the trip to local rivals Ely was always going to be interesting, and so it proved to be. Skipper Peter Boyle took on the task of standing between the sticks for the first time ever and proved to be more than up to the task. With the back four of Chris Evans, Darren Jenkins, Adrian Atkinson and Jordan Newnes providing superb protection for the goalie, Newmarket where able to build some early pressure through the midfield pairing of Adam Gallop and Ben Gottfredson resin Will Hosegood and James Atkinson. This pressure soon resulted in a goal, superbly converted by Hosegood, who yet again proved he has an eye for the goal. The first half continued in the same manner, but Newmarket yet again came up against an in form keeper, who was by far Ely’s best player. Half time came with the score standing at 1-0 to Newmarket.
The second half started as the first ended, with Newmarket dominating through the middle, and with Rob Greene and Matt Cooke creating problems down the flanks it seemed inevitable that another goal was coming. This wasn’t to be the case however, due to good goal keeping and some wayward shooting the s ore remained 1-0. Ely where to punish Newmarket for this, when halfway through the second half they scored a breakaway goal to level the score at 1-1. This temporarily demoralised Newmarket, who for 5 minutes dropped their heads and Ely capitalised with another goal, 2-1 to Ely.
To their credit though Newmarket rallied and started to dominate again but to no avail. Final score ended 2-1 to Ely, despite them being the second best team on the day. With dominant performances like this being Newmarkets stock in trade, skipper Boyle was left pondering when the results will start going the right way. The whole team played with skill and passion, which defies the final result and surely the results will start coming soon.
- Solid Work From Mens’ Teams
Newmarket men’s 1st XI 3 – 1 Ely City men’s 2nd XI
After last week’s impressive performance against fellow promotion rivals Rutland, Newmarket went into this local derby against Ely high on confidence. The league table goals conceded column suggested that Ely would be tight at the back and hard to break down and it didn’t lie.
In truth Newmarket found the first half hard work, Ely were fit and well organised and pressed well high up the pitch, combined with Newmarket’s inability to maintain quality possession and over eagerness to go from front to back too quickly made for a scrappy first 20 minutes during which neither keeper was tested frequently.
After about 20 minutes as Ely tired, Newmarket began to find their passing, the movement of Mike Skelton and Matt Holden up front created spaces and Josh Dawson started to find room on the right. Newmarket started to win penalty corners but wasted the first two they had, Dawson somehow deflecting over the bar from a foot out! They then twice almost took the lead through Alex Andreou, once firing wide when in space in the D and then arrowing a powerful shot towards the bottom corner from an angle only to watch the Ely keeper get his toe to it to just deflect it round the post.
The defensive quartet for Will Wilson, Simon Harrington, Jordan Newnes and David Worrall had to be particularly alert as Ely looked to break with real pace whenever Newmarket conceded possession high up the pitch. With their additional man in midfield it was difficult for Chris Leggett and Andreou to get tight which meant they chased shadows creating space midfield to play the balls into channel for the forward to run onto.
As half time approached Newmarket won another penalty corner, Wilson’s flick was deemed to have struck a players body on the line and a penalty stroke was awarded, Captain Wilson strode up to take the penalty, and rather embarrassingly beat the otherwise superb goal keeper with a poor flick that bobbled along the floor, under the keeper and into the net, they all count and Newmarket had the lead they craved.
At half time Newmarket reshuffled the pack, James Wrinch stepped in at centre back and pushed up to match Ely’s three in the middle when they had possession. Newmarket began to find their passing, with the tireless Ollie Wade always in space on the left flack, giving the right back a torrid time. Newmarket forced a few more penalty corners which unusually they failed to capitalise on, but soon scored two quick fire goals, both times Skelton collecting the rebound after the excellent keeper had blocked the initial effort to fire into either bottom corner.
With plenty of time on the clock, Newmarket should really have scored more, but chances went begging when men failed to post up (Holden) and shot wide with players better placed. There was time for Ely to score a goal of their own from a penalty corner. Goalie Chris Routs blocked the initial strike but could do nothing as Ely were first to the rebound and slotted home.
Ely were reduced to 10 when one of their players said one word to many to the umpire, with the additional man Newmarket still went forward for further goals, but found the keeper unbeatable form rushing twice form his line to smoother efforts from Harry Bell when he was through on goal.
The final whistle went to end a frenetic local derby! In the bar afterwards there was a debate on award of the penalty stroke, but none on the final outcome for which Newmarket were worthy winners. Man of the match was Jordan Newnes for a superb performance at centre back, marking his pacy attacker well and intercepting whenever needed. He was also dick of the day for the ridiculous time he took to get all his kit on before the start of the match.
Next week Newmarket are away against Alford & District in Skegness, yes Skegness, 300 minutes of driving for 70 minutes of hockey! Fortunately the team all have their matching inspirational music mix’s compiled by local Welsh DJ Dafyd Worrall to listen to on the journey. It will be a tough game against opponents that have been promoted with the club for the past 2 season, we deservedly won last year but this is a must win game to keep the pressure on first placed Wisbech one point above them.
Mens 2′s v Wisbech: 4-0
After a run of three losses was ended last week with a hard fought 2-2 draw against Bourne Deeping, hopes where high for another good result against Wisbech. With a team that has rarely put out the same team twice in a row, more changes had to be made for the trip to Wisbech, with Ben Justin coming into the middle of the park and one of last weeks goalscorers, Chris Evans, dropping back into defence and young goalkeeper John-Luke Peagram making only his second start of the season.
Wisbech got off to fine start, putting pressure on the Newmarket goal right from the whistle and coming close to scoring within a few minutes of the start. Newmarket defended stoutly however, and the back four of Pete Boyle, Adrian Atkinson, Darren Jenkins and Chris Evans where more than a match for the Wisbech attack. And on the rare occasion the attack broke through the defence, they came across John-Luke Peagram in goal who was to go on to give an inspired performance between the sticks that earned him man of the match.
After soaking up the pressure Newmarket launched a series of counter-attacks that led to several penalty corners, from which Mark Pears flicked a stunner into the Wisbech goal, 1-0 Newmarket.
The first half continued in the same manner, and as the half wore on Newmarket began to dominate, with the midfield pairing of Justin and Ben Gottfredson bossing the middle of the park. The half ended 1-0, but spirits where high.
The second half started where the first left off, with Newmarket on the attack, which was soon rewarded when Ben Justin hit the backboard, 2-0 Newmarket.
Soon after young James Atkinson was set free by Johnny Bunker and scored his first goal in Newmarket colours. As the second half continued some marauding runs from the back by Evans and Jenkins almost led to Jenkins recording his first goal, but as so often in the game the Wisbech ‘keeper was not to be easily beaten. However, after some excellent work down the flanks by Rob Greene and Jordan Walker, Newmarket where soon 4-0 up when Justin was able to find the back of the net for his second goal.
With Chris Evans returning to coaching duties next week, more changes will be necessary, but on the back of this result confidence will be high for the visit from Louth who currently top the table.
- A High 5 For Mens’ 2′s.
Mens 2′s: V St Ives. Newmarket win 5-2
With last weeks defeat still fresh in the minds of the Newmarket team, a win against St Ives was vital to keep any promotion hopes alive and a strong start was essential. Newmarket set their stall out from the beginning, with the new midfield pairing of Adam Gallop and Marc Simpson dominating the middle of the pitch freeing up Barney Bowens and Jordan Walker to make some surging runs along the wings. These runs led to some early pressure on the St Ives defence, with some smart movement from Will Balding and Chris Evans up front this pressure led to some early penalty corners from which Gallop was able to convert three of them into goals. St Ives , however, would not give up easily and came back with two goals of their own, one from a poor sideline hit in and another from a penalty corner. Newmarket held their nerve however, and shortly before half-time, Walker picked the ball up on the half way line, beat his man slipped the ball to substitute Rob Green who then found an unmarked Matt Cooke who calmly slotted the ball home. After the break St Ives came back strongly, but the back four of Marc Prentice, Darren Jenkins, Adrian Atkinson and Pete Boyle stood firm and where able to keep out some determined St Ives attacks. As the half wore on however Newmarket started to overwhelm St Ives and most of the play was centered around the St Ives goal area, but Newmarket where unable to convert this pressure into goals with several chances going begging. Just as it seemed that Newmarket where not going to score again,man of the match Gallop popped up in the opposing D and hit as clean a strike as has been seen all season to rattle the back board and give Newmarket their fifth goal, and his fourth goal. With a full time score a 5-2 win, Newmarket are fighting all the way to the end of the season in their bid for promotion.
- On Course For League Victory!
Newmarket Mens 2′s v’s Ely: 1-0 win to Newmarket
With Newmarket’s promotion bid being stalled by the recent inclement weather, Saturday’s away trip to Ely could prove to be a vital game in that bid. Newmarket started strongly, with the midfield of Barney Bowens, Andrew Beardon, Adam Gallop and Mat Smith dominating the early encounters and this dominance continued throughout the match. With the front pairing of the two Wills (Balding and Hosegood) creating problems for the Ely defense an early goal seemed inevitable and without the intervention of an inform Ely goalkeeper this would have been the case. With early shots raining down on the goal it took some superb saves to keep Newmarket at bay. Halfway through the first period super subs Jordan Walker and Mark Simpson joined the fray and brought fresh energy to the attack, and success soon came Newmarket’s way with young Walker harassing the Ely defense into a rare mistake and setting up Hosegood to finally make the breakthrough that all the pressure deserved. The rest of the first period continued in the same way but Newmarket where unable to capitalise and the half stayed one nil to Newmarket.
With Newmarket in confident mood, the second half started the way the first half ended and Ely’s goal was put under constant pressure with Ely’s defense taking up a siege mentality to keep out a rampant attack, with nine of Newmarket’s players in the Ely 25 yard area. Ely wouldn’t give up however, and after soaking up all the pressure that Newmarket could put them under, they started to create break away opportunities. The Newmarket defense of Darren Jenkins, Adrian Atkinson, Marc Prentice and skipper Pete Boyle was more than a match for the Ely forwards however and quickly snuffed out any attack with keeper Chris Warren only touching the ball once during the whole game.
Despite the almost constant pressure the score-line remained one nil to Newmarket, this being mainly due to the Ely keeper who had kindly paid us a visit from Ely’s second team, and he was without doubt their savior. But with another win under their belts and with a strong team effort, Newmarket’s promotion bid is firmly back on course.
- Mens’ 2′s Still Victorious!
With a two month break over the Christmas period, the threat of a little snow did nothing to deter a keen Newmarket mens’ 2’s side from getting on the pitch to play Cambridge South 4’s. With both teams trying to get in to their stride as well as battle the freezing elements, the first 20 minutes of the game looked to be fairly evenly matched if a little lackadaisical. Newmarket began to get in to the swing of things and find their feet with the Midfield of Beardon, Gottfredson , Bowens and Smith working hard to keep the ball in the attacking zone. The first goal from Will Hosegood saw Newmarket ahead at half time. A determined South were not giving up and proved themselves to be troublesome for skipper Boyle and his defence. Jenkins and Atkinson proved their worth by staying calm and cutting off any chance of South entering the D leaving Warren in goal with little to do. Left Back Mark Prentice showed a consistently strong performance throughout the whole game, only momentarily confusing Hockey for Football by going in for a 2 footed challenge (“honest Umps I was going for the ball not the legs!”). The goal of the game came from Will Baldings sharp reactions inside the D, the forward struck the fast moving ball at an almost impossible angle to be rewarded with the satisfying sound of the ball rattling the backboard. With fire in their stomachs (and icicles on their fingers) Newmarket stepped up a gear and Chris Evans played a lovely cross in to Hosegoods stick which found the goal again. Youngster Jordan Walker used his youth to keep the energy of the team up and found himself in some good positions which frustrated the opposition. Hosegood managed to beat the keeper twice more to rack up a healthy 4 goal spree which secured him MOTM. With the final whistle blowing Newmarket left the pitch feeling happy with a 5-1 result. With games in hand and only 1 point separating them from the top of the leaderboard Newmarket have their eye on the promotion prize and are ready to fight for the no.1 spot.
21 November 2011- Total Commitment Gives Men’s 2′s 3 Points
Mens 2′s v Cambs South:
With the toughest game of the season so far facing them, Newmarket 2s played host to league leaders Cambridge South 3s. With both teams hoping to come away with the 3 points the pressure was on from the start. Within minutes the goal monster that is Andrew Beardon performed his Short Corner smash perfectly to rattle the ball against the backboard. South pressed forward looking for the equaliser but were thwarted by the back four made up of Skipper Pete Boyle, Dave Worral, Darren Jenkins and Adrian Atkinson. When the South forwards were fortunate enough slip by the Newmarket defence they came up against a brick wall in the form of goalkeeper Chris Warren who once again cemented his reputation as an incredible keeper, his MOTM reward was well deserved as he blocked shots from all angles to keep a clean sheet. Not one to be outdone Pete Boyle decided to get in on the action and stop a reverse flick shot with his forehead! Newmarkets skipper was trotted off to have the blood mopped from his brow before reappearing on the pitch with his head wrapped up like frankenstein. With an injury to Matt Smith, it fell to Mark Prentice to play out of position on the right wing, which he did with some determined runs to put more pressure on the Cambridge defence. The game also included some nice link up play in the midsection from Adam Gallop, Jon Luke Peagram and Ben Gottfredson which saw good chances created upfront for Mark Simpson, Barney Bowens and Jordan Walker. Newmarket enter in to next weeks match 2nd in the league behind South looking for a win to take them to the top.
24 October 2011- Top Performance From Mens’ 2′s
Men’s hockey – Div 6NW
October 22nd 2011
Cambridge South 4th XI 0
Newmarket 2nd XI 6
An easy weekend for the visitors, who maintained their unbeaten run against a South side who offered little resistance. Ben Coupe pounced on a loose ball from a penalty corner to rifle home the opener after 10 minutes. Will Balding bagged a brace either side of the break, the latter showcasing his close control in the ‘D’. Adam Gallop netted the fourth, youngsters Jordan Walker and Jon-Luke Pegram then each adding a goal on their senior league debuts. The back line, led by Greg Cummins, held firm against the periodic breaks by the home team to complete a solid performance from the Newmarket side.
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