Westleigh 3s v West Bridgford

With the weather being kind, Westleigh had a game of hockey and to turn around a very close loss at home to the Notts club. Westleigh started the game on the front foot playing some super hockey. Nikki holding the middle well and Ryan running well off him. This brought the width of Josh and Reagan into play. Ali also dropping to pick up the ball building more chances. As well as we played the home team keeper did better. Westleigh then started getting short corners - all good efforts but again the Keeper equal. Then just when we needed, Jack smashed the ball just inside the post. Westleigh pushed on again - Ali taking a swing and ran off thinking he had scored but the shot fizzed off the cross bar. At the other end, the defence didn’t have too much to do though the two youngsters for the home team tried hard to pull away but Jim mopped up anything. Half time came with the home team getting more into the game. A crucial tackle from Jake blocked a strong counter attack which won him some applause. Ali did get sent off for a bit of a push - needed a calmer head. Best part of the first half was the press. The home team couldn’t get the ball out and when they did, often go off the pitch.

Half time talk was keeping the press going and 5 mins rest for Ali to calm. Meaning Damon got a go upfront. The home team did come on strong and after a very quick linked passes found the corner of the goal. Still, lots of time and the 2nd half certainly flowed more both ways but still the better chances came to Westleigh and at last a 2nd chance ball fell to Ryan, who did the right thing and pushed it first time, which the keeper couldn’t get back to and Westleigh took the lead again. We had to dig in as Ali again got carded harshly this time and Matt injured so Damon working hard with Dave and Martin. Martin again showing his good form today with strong tackles and good passing out of danger. With time running down, Jack showed the other part of his game effort helping at the back. Westleigh huffed and puffed but won the game which was well deserved with the first half dominant performance.

All back to the club house a plus and a jovial vote. Many got MOTM even Dave!! DOTD far easier Ali winning and even voting himself for running off celebrating his non goal.
Jack won a close MOTM
Goals Jack assist Ryan, Ryan no assist clear came from a ball from WB