Match Reports & Results (2005/06 season - part 1)

 

Saturday 14th January 2006

MEN
1st XI lost 2-1 vs Sutton Valance (A)
(Civico [FG])
2nd XI won 3-2 vs University of Kent (H)
(J Henderson [FG], P Price [PS], Tither [FG])
3rd XI lost 4-3 vs Old Williamsonians (A)
4th XI won 1-0 vs Burnt Ash (H)
(J Smith [FG])
5th XI lost 3-1 vs Blackheath (A)
(Jayasuria [FG])
6th XI lost 4-2 vs Burnt Ash (H)
Veterans drew 1-1 vs Purley (A)
(I Palmer [FG])

 

1st XI
The Christmas festivities now over, BBHC returned to action this week with an away fixture against second in the league Sutton Valence. The team arrived in the tiny Kent village in good spirits. That was until they discovered that there were no changing rooms available. Such a lack of facilities is not adequate for a mid-table team of superstars and some players, who shall remain nameless, did suggest that we should refuse to play. Such threats were not taken lightly and the captain commenced negotiations with Sutton Valence. The local village hall was duly opened for us to change in. Not proper facilities, but there were toilets, and our players were (fairly) happy again.

The away team started the game brightly and took the lead mid-way through the first half. Dan Lucas picked the ball up in midfield and fed Steve Rudduck. His pass found Joey Civico who duly dispatched the ball past the stranded Sutton Valence keeper. Buoyed by this goal, BBHC pressed forward and could have been 2 in front when Jamie Perfitt squandered a good chance (some would, and did, say open goal) to score. No matter, we were flying high and playing some of our best hockey of the season. More chances followed to Perfitt (again) and Rudduck, but none could be converted. This was to cost us. Just before half-time, Sutton Valence equalised from a short corner against the run of play.

The second half started much the same as the first, with BBHC pressing for a second goal. In fact, we won several short corners, but failed to convert any of them. As the game progressed, however, the Christmas excesses took their toll and we seemed to run out of steam. Sutton Valence seized the advantage (they must not eat mince pies down there) and we spent much of the last 20 minutes camped out in our own half. Lee Humber, Steve Harding and Ravi Chana fought valiantly to protect the BBHC goal. However, they could not weather the storm indefinitely and Sutton Valence eventually managed to carve out an opening to take the lead. A frantic last 10 minutes followed in which BBHC desperately tried to find an equaliser. But this proved beyond them, mainly because they only had 10 men following yellow cards to Bradley and Stanley (in that order), both for mis-timed tackles.

Overall a good performance though and we were unlucky not to take something from the game. Next week we play Burnt Ash at Erith School - 2.00pm PB.

 

2nd XI
BBHC's Men's 2nd XI continued their push for promotion with a committed performance against visitors University of Kent.

The game started off brightly for the home side who took the lead shortly after the start after a well won short corner was converted by Jim Henderson. A powerful shot that squeezed past the out stretched keeper. The game continued as a fairly even affair with both sides creating good chances. However, it was the visitors who eventually benefitted after a quickly taken free hit left the BBHC defence unprepared at the back and the ball was coolly deflected past Jim Jackson in the BBHC goal.

Two minutes later BBHC were 2-1 down after an attempted clearance from the BBHC defence rebounded off an opposition's stick and almost comically rolled into the BBHC goal BBHC came out from half time, although 2-1 down confident that a win was achievable.

The 2nd half was much the same as the first with both teams creating good opportunities, with the best falling to Uni of Kent. With 15 minutes to go though BBHC drew level when a harsh tackle in the visitors D resulted in a P flick. This was converted easily by Phil Price. Sensing an imminent home victory BBHC continued to pour men forward, this resulted in a few shaky moments at the back but the defence coped. The lead was finally regained by a spectacular solo effort from Andy Tither saw him "plough" through the visitors defence and finish with style with a reverse stick shot. Having finally regained the lead, BBHC were not going to give it away and the team shut up shop for a well earnt 3-2 victory.

 

3rd XI
The 3s travelled away to Old Williamsonians for the start to second half of the season. The game started off with BBHC on the back foot. With 10 minutes gone BBHC went 1-0 down from a well worked short corner. Midway through the half BBHC went 2-0 down from open play. Just before half time BBHC pulled a goal back.

With a little adjustment to the formation the visitors started the second half off brightly with some good attacks down both wings. Ten minutes into the second half and BBHC scored their 2nd to level the score. with a deceptively slow drag flick. Yet again some good attacking from BBHC led to a 3rd goal but about 15 minutes to go the home team scored again 3-3. With about 10 minutes to go BBHC appeared to regain the lead but an honest Matt Thurlow pointed out it was actually his foot with the superb deflection. With minutes left and a draw looking imminent BBHCs defence were caught out by a long ball which was neatly slipped in at the near post.

An undeserved 4-3 loss for the visitors.

 

4th XI
Coming off of two important draws the 4th XI started sleepily with little creativity and few passes being strung together. The Christmas cobwebs were certainly showing as we defended in panic with stand in keeper Sam Cuthburt pulling off some vital saves. Half time came with a fairly fortunate 0-0 score line.

Back on the pitch things looked to be going the same for the second half but a 15 minute spell of last years hockey suddenly crept into the game. Running Burnt Ash ragged with some good one touch passing the ball fell to James Smith on the left of the goal and as he hit the ball across the goal Captain Darren Laws let it pass before sweeping it through the keeper’s legs and into the goal for his first of the season. 10 minutes of good hockey continued after this and a few chances came and went for BBHC. The final 20 minutes saw the game change back to a frustrating panic to clear the ball but determined to start on a win and close the gap on 2nd place BBHC worked hard. Persistence paid off as we won and drew to within 5 points of 2nd place.

 

5th XI
BBHC managed to score an 'own goal' even before the match against Blackheath started when a deflected ball during the warm up caused Alex Templar to pay a visit to hospital to repair a cut to his head. Despite this set back the visitors took the lead early in the first half with a very coolly taken goal by Udi. This brought Blackheath onto the attack and they were disappointed when a short corner was disallowed due to the ball being raised too high from the initial shot. Renewed efforts by the home side brought two quick goals from open play before half time and a 2-1 advantage.

After the break, although Blackheath were intent on improving their lead, BBHC fought back strongly with some powerful running by Martin Agyei, well supported by Mark Pellett and Scott Bennet, causing disorder in the opposition defence. Unfortunately, although a number of chances were created, they were not converted into goals and BBHC were dismayed when a Blackheath counter attack forced a goal which put the game beyond reach.

 

6th XI
BBHC started off brightly and had many chances to go ahead but was unfortunate capitalise, Young Sam Eastgate and Gareth Jones coming close to put the B’s ahead. Despite having most of the play Burnt Ash struck twice, before Harvey broke through midfield to put the ball past the keeper's left ear. 1 – 2 half time.

Although BBHC were strong throughout the 2nd half they were unable to convert many chance’s. Final score 2-4. There were some great performances by Scott More and Gareth Jones.

 

Veterans
The fixture list at the start of the new year presented a difficult home fixture against Purley - a team which we beat at their place early in the season with a performance of heroism and craft. Purley traditionally do not travel well. They are very strong at home but often weak away (we still speak, do we not, of the drunk umpire incident four years after the event), however yesterday, disappointingly, they came with a full strength side. In addition to this we were not at our strongest with three notable absences (namely Koki, due to an administration balls up; Arthur, due to an unhealthily advanced protestant work ethic; and Peter, due to projectile vomiting). Fortunately their best player (a man called Andy whose only redeeming feature is to be very bald) was also their chief critic and spent the entire game destroying any confidence the others had. God bless him.

So we began with the bare eleven, and it is a game which will be remembered for very little. The pitch was soft and unforgiving. Purley were piquish, bordering on miserable, and unforgiving. In the second half we scored (against the run of play I think) through Ian with a predictably well-taken strike. Then they scored (through an unusual absence of tackling from BBHC - most disappointing). The light started to fade, as did Purley's already questionable humour, because they were getting stronger whilst we were hanging on, but the score line was remaining resolutely motionless. With six minutes to go, at last something to write about. At the top of our penalty area there was a tangle of sticks and arms between their captain (the afore-mentioned Andy) and Jagi (from whom the red mist is never far away). Jostling turned to shoving. Shoving developed into collar grabbing. It was all starting to go off rather well. Everyone agreed that had Francis not entered into the fray by sensitively grasping our opposition captain by the throat, the whole thing might have been over in an instant. As it was, as many as seven men could be seen assertively trying not to be the first one to let go. It was tremendous fun.

This is where a good umpire earns his praise. Barry, in the non-confrontational way only he could achieve, gave us all options. Either the two men involved could remove themselves from the pitch (I thought it was three men actually, but chose not to mention this) and we would carry on, or we could stop the game and seek friendship in the bar. The BBHC captain, sensing an opportunity to walk away with a hard-earned draw, immediately shouted "BBHC - Three cheers for Purley!", but our opposition would have none of it. Rather rudely they insisted we carried on, by citing the wimpish "We-don't-want-the-game-to-finish-like-that-do-we" argument. The BBHC captain didn't give a stuff how the game finished as long as we didn't lose, but as a team we were not assertive enough. The game continued in the same drab and rather pseudo-aggressive way for another tortuous six minutes. No more goals were scored, although Graeme in goal pulled off a fantastic save, the like of which he tends to reserve for games when he is playing against us. A man half his age would have been pleased with such agility. Two cheers were given to Purley at the end (they'd already had one earlier, and frankly a team of Purley's miserability were lucky to get two) and we all trouped off, wondering whether or not a good time had been had by all.

I am delighted therefore that we have played Purley twice this season and have not been beaten on either occasion. That is a mark of some steel in our game, and we are all to be congratulated.

Dorises were awarded to Jagi (we cannot condone failure to be on the pitch at the end, however much a player is the victim of the piece) and to Francis (obvious reasons). The Morris went to Clayton for a performance which was head and shoulders his best of the season.

Thanks are due to Barry for umpiring stylishly and effectively, Anup and Ken for getting the noodles, Clayton and the captain for serving up the noodles, Francis for loading the dish washer, and Simon for playing in spite of turning out for the 6th team in the morning.

The season so far. Played 15. Won 9. Drawn 4. Lost 2. Goals for 41. Goals against 26.

Next week we are away to Desperados at Teddington. It is our longest trip of the season, but an easy drive. We are leaving at 12 noon. Offers to drive will be appreciated.

 

LADIES
1st XI won 4-2 vs Gillingham Anchorians (H)
(D Henderson [PC], Hetherington [FG], Hubbard [FG], Sweeney [FG])

 

1st XI
The ladies resumed the second half of the season with an emphatic victory over Anchorians. Anchs who were the first game of the season, beat BBHC in a frustrating game, 1-0 in their home fixture.

The game started off brightly when BBHC converted a fairly early penalty corner in the first half. It was the well rehearsed "tick tock" formation with Debbie Henderson finishing off a slick routine right off the training ground.

This gave the home side a psychological head start. After the Christmas turkey and excess booze BBHC looked surprisingly good considering the break, and slight loss of match fitness. With the positive vocal support and disciplined structure BBHC had a solid grasp on the game.

BBHC continued their domination of the game, limiting Anchorian's chances on goal, whilst still creating plenty themselves. The lead was extended again just before half time when Karen Hall slipped the ball into the D and Gen buried it. A well worked joint effort giving BBHC a strong advantage going into half time at 2- 0. Despite the convincing lead it was important that BBHC kept up the pressure and didn't do the old classic "sit back thinking we got it in the bag".

Soon into the second half BBHC increased their advantage when a ball hit by S Hetherington was deflected onto the crossbar, and down onto the floor. With no Russian linesman to hand Gen hooked the ball in for good measure but after some confusion the goal was given to Super Sue.

Anchorians kept on attacking and were not going to give up. Their efforts paid off when they were awarded a short corner and duly converted it with a strong strike. With fitness fading for both sides fast the game went from D to D. BBHC finally put it out of Anchorians reach when Zoe Hubbard found herself on the spot with the ball and sending thee keeper the wrong way, coolly converted the final goal.

Anchorians had the final word in the game though when they again converted a short corner with a stunning strike.

BBHC 1st XI now sit in 7th place, above us are Hertford on the same points, and same goal difference (-4).
Roll on Stevenage next Sat 12.30pm start Erith

 

COLTS
(Sunday 15th January)
U14 Boys lost 4-0 vs Sevenoaks (A)

In a closely fought game Sevenoaks started strongly and moved in to 2 goal lead. BBHC gradually got into their stride and finished the first half the stronger team but could not score due to some valiant Sevenoaks defending. The second half continued in the same way but eventually Sevenoaks got back on top and scored a couple more goals to finish worthy winners. A very good game enjoyed by the players and spectators alike. This was the best performance from BBHC this season and just a shame that they could not get amongst the goals.

 

 

Monday 26th Decmber 2005

MEN - WILDEBEEST CUP
Veterans won 3-1 vs BBHC Young'uns
(A Humber 2 [2 FG], I Palmer [FG])

 

THE WILDEBEEST CUP - presented by Shaun Lanigan to BBHC to recognise the Winners/Holders of the "WEOF Challenge" between the young guns and old war horses of the men's hockey section.

So runs the legend on the base of the cup contested on Boxing Day. (WEOF stands for Wet Ears/Old Farts). As the umpires (Colin and Alan - more about whom later) walked confidently onto the pitch, each adorned in the biggest pairs of glasses you can imagine, the scene was set for a sociable but firmly contested game and so it turned out to be. Over the two previous days the vets had lost their entire first-choice back row (Koki, Francis and Jagi) and a rather makeshift back line had been appointed instead (Simon, Frank and the captain). This line determined therefore to operate a policy of 'none-shall-pass-under-any-circumstance' (a policy Simon Brown had no difficulty applying since his robust style of play lends itself to this approach on a weekly basis).

The game began, and I can tell you that under-25 year old players can run bloody fast, and the none-shall-pass policy was tested and found to be up to the job on many occasions in the first ten minutes. The youngsters like to play an attacking style of hockey, and they hunt in packs. Waves of white shirts cascaded towards us on a worryingly regular basis. The midfield were required to run very fast for a long time. However this attacking approach can render a team a bit short of numbers at the back, and so (and not entirely against the run of play, but welcome nonetheless) the vets scored the opening goal on the break through Andy Humber. 1 - 0. I cannot accurately describe the goal to you because at the time I was slowly getting up having felled one of the Price brothers for the fifth time in as many minutes (I cannot even tell you which Price - the carnage was indiscriminate), but I'm told the goal was very well taken.

The game continued. I am sorry to have to tell you that after more of the same, with each of our back three performing tackles best described as 'legally ambivalent', one tackle from the captain came under particular scrutiny and Colin Brine chose to call the Vets captain across. Said captain was given a threateningly-quiet ear-bashing of acerbic venom and clarity that would have made even Arthur Davies quail in his boots. The captain quailed. The back line was tempted to change the policy, but then thought better of it.

I am further sorry to tell you that inevitably the game continued with youngsters still sprinting about all over the place in organised packs and in spite of a cast iron opportunity to render his opponent horizontal, Frank Andrews failed to do so, and a goal was scored against us. Silence reigned (apart from the tasteless and inappropriate whoops of delight from the opposition of course). The only sound was a thin "Sorry!" from Frank. Half time. 1 - 1.

At the start of the second half both teams had changed tactics. The youngsters adopted a curious 1- 5 - 4 formation which troubled us for a while (about 35 minutes actually), and the Vets adopted a 'lets mark everyone' approach which left an enormous vacuous unmanned midfield hole, very often the size of half a pitch. However the game continued in the same vein as the first. Clayton was busy in goal and used every bit of his ample frame (that's every bit!) to good effect. The only difference was that in between all the running about and falling over the vets scored two further goals, - one a well taken solo effort from Ian (the 5 - 4 section of our opposition all having inadvertently strayed North of the ball) and the other another a well-worked team effort, finished again by Andy Humber. Final whistle 3-1.

The captain has two general points to make. Firstly the performance of the umpires was fantastic. This is not an easy game over which to officiate, and many umpires would not have had the flexibility of approach to make decisions in the spirit of the game shown by Colin and Alan. I particularly enjoyed the use of the 'Take the ball up ten yards' rule which was applied liberally and equally against both teams, on one enjoyable cumulative occasion taking the ball a full fifty metres up the pitch. The game was never out of control, nor threatened to become so, and for that Colin Brine and Alan Sargent are both to be congratulated. They are, in my opinion, the 'A team' of umpires.

Secondly the way the Price brothers conducted themselves in the face of some relentlessly robust tackling was laudable. They are self-evidently similar physically (one being helpfully and fashionably hirsute, allowing identification, but which one?) but they also share a calm approach to being felled to the ground which is very attractive. The same cannot be said of the man they call Mungo, whose constant shrieks of outrage gladdened the hearts of vets everywhere, and just encouraged yet stouter attention from Mr Brown.

The Morris went to Clayton Little who does not relish the position of goalkeeper, but kept goal effectively nonetheless (how are your testicles this morning Clayton?).

The Doris went to Frank Andrews for failing to implement an agreed policy, resulting in a goal. Further Dorises were awarded to Andy Price for failing to get through even the first half without pulling a muscle, rendering him incapable of movement, and another was awarded to the man they call Mungo for wittering in the face of physical assault.

Thanks are due to Alan and Colin for umpiring, Barry and Suzanne for both running the bar, and providing an excellent Chilli.

So the season so far. Played 14. Won 9. Drawn 3. Lost 2. Goals for 40. Goals against 25.

On a sad note, the reason Jagi was unable to play was because of bereavement. He lost his mother on Christmas Day, and I speak for all of us in extending our sympathy to him and to his family.

Our next game is at home against Purley on 14th January, push back at 2.15. In all the excitement yesterday I forgot to ask about availability, so it would save me many phone calls (if you are a regular vet that is) if you could reply and let me know if you can play.

 

 

Saturday 17th Decmber 2005

MEN
Veterans drew 0-0 vs Tunbridge Wells (A)

 

Sunday 18th December:
England Hockey Men's 2nd XI Trophy: 1st round
2nd XI won 4-3 vs Staines (A)
(Ashby 2 [FG, PC], P Price [FG], S Price [PC])

 

Veterans
On the coldest day of the season so far (please God, let there not be a colder one) we travelled to Tunbridge Wells with high expectations because when they came to our place on the very first game of the season we turned them over 5-0. On that occasion they turned up with eight players and we lent them a few. Clearly they had left several very good players at home, because at home 'Wells' (they dislike being called Tonbridge I found out early on) are a strong team, with good players in all positions. We would need to be at our best to beat them.

We were not at our best. In fact we were woeful for enormous chunks of the game. Clean hits were a rarity. Communication was rare. We were narrow and there was no cohesion. Fortunately our tackling did not suffer from the same disease, neither did our willingness to run. This was a game where we worked ourselves into the ground (particularly the midfield players who each looked utterly knackered at the end), and the defence were busy all afternoon.

I am delighted to report that although (for the first time this season) we did not score, neither did they. This is remarkable in hockey at any level, indeed both teams remarked upon its remarkability. Twice in the second half we thought all was lost when their centre forward snuck clean through, but on both occasions Graeme Perman (in goal) threw himself heroicly and possibly legally at man and ball to save the day. It cannot be denied that we rode our luck, but it is pleasing that against a side who were considerably better than us on the day, we did not lose. We have become a hard team to beat, and have now gone two games without conceding, which I believe is a BBHC veteran's team record.

The awardance of a Doris was deemed inappropriate in this game since everyone worked beyond the call of duty, and nobody did anything significantly more copeless than anyone else.

Two Morrises were therefore awarded. The first went to Graeme, for keeping us in it as previously described.

The second went to Frank Andrews, playing at Left Back, who was nothing short of masterful. Not once did his man get past him. It was seldom pretty, not always legal, but constantly effective. The great thing about Frank's style of play is that he carries with him such an air of gentleness and sportsmanship, that when he feels obliged to wantonly play straight through an opponent (which he did on more than one occasion in this game) the umpires naturally assume that the destruction and mayhem left behind him is the result of Frank's victim's incompetance. It is a wonderful attribute. If only we could bottle it.

So the season so far. Played 13. Won 8. Drawn 3. Lost 2. Goals for 37. Goals against 24.

Thanks are due to Graeme, Frank and Alex for driving, and we enjoyed a guest appearance from Reg D'Costa on the whistle, an unfussy and reliable umpire.

Our next game is on Boxing Day against the BBHC under 25s. Although this is additionally a social event, this is a game I would like us to take seriously, avoiding concentration-sapping jolly japes until the game is won. To that end I am delighted to report we have arranged for Colin and Alan to umpire, so we can be assured of fair umpiring. We are aiming to start at 1pm.

 

England Hockey 2nd XI Men's Trophy: 1st round
BBHC's Men's 2nd XI played in the 1st round of the England Hockey 2nd XI Trophy away to Staines. However, most of the 2’s had to carry out their Christmas shopping, so we had to call upon players from our 3’s and 4’s. Although we had a range of players that had not played together, the B’s got off to a solid start. Unfortunately, 20 minutes into the game, they were a goal down.

The B’s fought back as Ross Perman used his pace down the right wing, putting Mark Ashby through to place the ball nicely in the top right hand corner. Both sides battled with some great first touch hockey and strong defending form Tom Barnett and Lee Humber and first half ended 1 -1.

The second half was also great for the viewers, shots from Steve Porter forced the Staines keeper to make some wonderful saves. However, 15 minutes on and Staines scored 2 very quick goals which would have knocked the stuffing from any side.

But not the determined BBHC who battled hard for their club and county to the end. With 10 minutes left we were given a life-line when Phil Price scored a valuable goal. Minutes, later Steve Price converted a short corner with a stunning strike to the bottom left of the goal. At 3 -3 the Staines team broke, bringing a fantastic save from B’s keeper Jim Jackson, who managed to pad a seemingly unstoppable shot onto the post.

It was 3 -3 with 20 seconds left when the B’s had there final break, with a great move by Perman, P Price and Ashby winning a penalty corner. The B’s saw their chance to finish off Staines in the dying seconds. A fine drag flick from P Price looked to be going just past the far post when Ashby came from nowhere and dived full length to get the slightest of touches, guiding the ball home. Seconds later the final whistle went and the B’s celebrated a fantastic performance to win 3 -4.

Everyone played with passion desire and all wore the BBHC shirt with pride, the club were very proud of them all for there efforts. Either Sonning or Harrow await them in the 2nd round on Sunday 29th January.

 

 

Saturday 10th Decmber 2005

MEN
Veterans won 4-0 vs Kenley (A)
(F Andrews [FG], McLaren 3 [3FG])

 

Veterans
With the captain out due to Christmas shopping committments........sorry gout....sorry bad toe it was left to the new star on the block, Alex, to lead the side to the promised land. Well he got us to Kenley but he should have done as we seem to have been there so many times recently

Change of prose style now coz I don't know anything about the game.

Kenley have not proved the strongest opposition in recent games and it came as a shock when they attacked forcibly from the begining; they forced a number of short corners and it was only by the timely intervention of Koki and the power play of Graham that they were thwarted. Against the run of play, Alex scored the first of his goals, by wrong-footing not only the opposition but also his own side.

The rest of the half proved to be a dogged midfield battle, with the strength of Arthur being countered by the cultured midfield play of the oppositions playmaker. Kenley came close to scoring on a number of occassions but failed to put the ball in the goal - a very necessary requirement.

The second half proved more eventful and BBHC played some meliflous hockey as the opposition faded. Peter retired - he was in need of some company after spending a lonely time on the left wing.

Alex scored two more stunning goals; Frank arrived from nowhere to score his first goal since 1968, Francis and Jag had an esoteric discussion on the policy and methodology of marking; Simon occupied a left side of midfield position unknown since Alf Ramsey's days at Ipswich and Ken attempted to get to grips with "the right side of the pitch, the third paradigm".

The umpiring was as ever ironic yet full of festive cheer.

Simon then proceeded to demonstrate how to spend the beer kitty all in one go. We left fairly soon after and just managed to get out of the bar before the opposition.

Morris to Alex and Simon, Doris to Francis and Ken.

What do you expect when the match report is written by the umpire they never see anything....

Balthazar.

 

 

Saturday 3rd Decmber 2005

MEN
1st XI lost 5-1 vs Worthing (A)
(Ashby [PC])
2nd XI lost 4-0 vs HSBC (H)
3rd XI won 2-1 vs Old Bordenians (A)
(A Humber 2 [FG, PC])
4th XI drew 2-2 vs Cliftonville (H)
Veterans drew 2-2 vs Sutton Valence (A)
(I Palmer [PS], A Price [FG])

 

1st XI
The game started well with both sides creating early chances. Worthing being the home side settled into a pattern and took the lead with a weak but yet accurate reverse stick shot. BB started to push forward again, putting together some quick passes but they still could not unlock the Worthing defence. Once again Worthing took full advantage of a break away, this time from a broken down penalty corner and slotted home a pull back from the by-line to make it 2-0.

The game took a unsavoury turn when there was a clash between two players which lead to a Worthing playing earning a red card and our own captain unable to continue due to the incident. With this in mind, BBHC failed to capitalise on the situation and it was Worthing who held took advantage with a well worked move which resulted in BB’s keeper being exposed. The Worthing centre forward simply had to pass the ball into the net.

In the second half, BB took the game to Worthing, creating more and more but just could not find the last pass or finish off the chance. Worthing, now hanging on with some desperate defending, managed to create a few break away chances which earned them short corners. They converted one to make the score 4-0. BBHC then managed to score a short corner of their own thanks to Mark Ashby but, no sooner had the breakthough occurred when Worthing earned their fourth corner of the game and again placed the ball into BB’s goal to make 5-1.

BB go into the last game before Christmas with their 3rd defeat in a row and need to get back to the winning form.

 

2nd XI
BBHC played host to fellow title contenders HSBC. Despite appearing unprepared HSBC stamped their authority on the game right from the start with swift passing that left the BBHC defence stretched from the start. It was not long before HSBC took a well deserved lead from a well-worked short corner deflected over the outstretched Jim Jackson in goal.

BBHC missing two midfield regulars, struggled to find a foothold and soon found themselves 2-0 after the irdefence was caught out by the quick HSBC frontline, leaving a 1 on 1 on the goal. BBHC did create a few chances but nothing that troubled the visitors. Just before the half-time whistle, HSBC went 3-0 up after another well-worked short corner was squeezed in at the near post.

After the half-time break, BBHC came out with a new look formation, hoping that the extra man upfront could help fight their way back into the game. However, the already-stretched BBHC defence was stretched even more so with one less at the back and HSBC were soon awarded a penalty flick after captain Mark Pickersgill had the ball fired into his body from close range. Thankfully, the resulting penalty flick was easily saved. As the game progressed BBHC's inability to fight their way back into the game witch led to a few tempers flaring. Their best chance came when a short corner shot by Dan Lucas struck the post. However, with some creative defending, HSBC were limited to just one goal in the second half thanks to a well worked move put in from close range.

Overall, an under strength 2nd XI were outclassed by a superior opposition and need to improve their game for next week's game with top of the league New Beccs.

 

3rd XI
BBHC's Men's 3rd XI had a tough game to play, visiting a strong Old Bordenians side but with only 9 men. Thankfully, generous Old Bordenians provided both umpires. From the first whistle the home side came at BBHC hard, using the extra players to full effect and passing the ball well. The BBHC team was stretched for long periods but managed to stay strong. About 15 mins into the half, a well worked move from Old Bordenians allowed the home side to take the lead. scoring from open play. BBHC replied soon after where some good team passing lead to a short corner. This was blasted home by Andy Humber to level the score.

Old Bordenians continued to take advantage of their extra numbers and put BBHC under much pressure but the visitors stood firm. As Old Bordenians over-committed, BBHC broke out and down the right wing. A quickly taken long corner from Dave Corker found Andy Humber again who blasted home another unstoppable shot past the helpless keeper and gifting BBHC a 2-1 lead at half time.

With some inspiring words from stand in captain Adrian Prong, BBHC started the half off as the second had finished - on the defensive much of the time and breaking from midfield when the opportunities came about. The second half was fairly uneventful with most the game fought out in midfield. BBHCs defence stood strong though and thanks to new keeper "Danny" making saves from the few Old Bordenians attacks that did get through. The game finished at 2-1. A fantastic result from the 3rd XI which left Old Bordenians in disbelief.

 

Veterans
The sun was barely up when BBHC vets gathered in the gloom at the club for a fixture arranged only a few weeks previously. This was a morning game against our old friendly foe Sutton Valance on astro. We welcomed back Koki to the fold after a four match absence, and Andy Price also enjoyed a break from his retirement. The captain was pleased to see them both because Koki never fails when passing to members of his own team, and Andy never fails to score.

I am sorry to report that we were substantially delayed in leaving because one member of the squad failed to contact the captain until after 9am to report independent travel (we have digital evidence to support this accusation). I will not embarrass that player further by identifying him, but it is not behaviour we have come to expect in the vets this season. On a completely unconnected matter, the captain's mobile number, for the benefit of Andy Price, is 07952 340845.

We arrived on time, and the game began in the cold damp conditions which pertain on early December mornings. Early in the game Koki hit the ball straight to one of their players. This is unheard of. Could it be a sign? Our worst fears were realised immediately when we were reminded how the astro game is significantly different from the grass, and Sutton Valance play on the devil's surface week in, week out. We were run ragged for twenty minutes or so, with Clayton Little in goal being busier than last week's goalkeeper had been. Koki then hit the ball straight to one of their players. Suddenly, and out of the blue, a major miracle occurred when we were awarded a penalty. We all agreed that technically it was a correct decision, but minor mutterings from the opposition (which could be heard across the vale of Kent) suggested it was harsh. Ian Palmer stepped up to take it (without reference to the captain) and slotted the ball in as clean as a whistle via the goalkeepers stick, a post, and the back of the keeper's helmet. 1-0. We didn't care, but our hosts went a bit cold on us.

We were run ragged again for the rest of the half. Koki hit the ball straight to one of their players. Sutton finally scored (deservedly I think) through an unfortunate deflected shot. Half time. 1-1.

The second half began with Sutton Valance running us ragged for twenty minutes or so. Koki hit the ball straight to one of their players. Another goal was conceded after some fancy stick work in the defence got us into trouble. We did consider disputing a whistle that failed to blow in our favour just before the goal was scored, but felt we were not in a position to criticise decisions after the penalty incident, and the captain is of the view that contesting umpires' decisions serves no purpose, and is in bad taste.

Heads could easily have dropped, but I am pleased to report they did not, and with about fifteen minutes to go three consecutive things happened at the same time. Firstly Koki started hitting the ball to our players. Secondly we started getting our act together and playing the game as astro hockey is supposed to be played, and thirdly Sutton Valance seemed to tire. The game finished with only one team looking like scoring, and indeed we did, an Andy Price poacher's goal from a great free hit from Jagi. Full time - 2-2. This is not the first time we have played against a team who have weakened towards the end, and the captain is of the view (don't laugh now) that collectively we are fitter than most teams we play against. It felt like a victory because we had been on the edge of a sizable pasting for most of the game. We looked rather happier than they did at the end.

The Morris went to Ken for running tirelessly, and for the best aerial tackle anyone will ever see. The umpire's critical interpretation of it was in error in the captain's opinion, and we are sure that both men will be walking again unaided in no time. Ken has a robust style of play we could all learn from.

The Doris went to Koki for delivering his worst performance in living memory (this is not a personal criticism, just a statement of fact).

Thanks are due to Barry for organising the fixture and for umpiring, to Frank, Ian and Alex for driving, to Clayton for going in goal, and to Koki for taking merciless criticism so resolutely. Sutton Valance also know a thing or two about entertaining back in the Queen's Head, and a mellow smiling BBHC contingent left the pub happily satisfied several hours later.

The season so far. Played 11. Won 7. Drawn 2. Lost 2. Goals for 33. Goals against 24.

Next week we are away to Kenley. We are leaving at 12.30. It is on grass. Offers to drive will be gratefully received. By the way this plethora of away games that we are enjoying will be less pronounced after Christmas. In 2006 we have (at present) 8 home games and 4 away (not counting a few distant away games for those going to South Africa).

 

LADIES
1st XI won 4-2 vs Gore Court (A)
(G Smith [PC], A Davenport [FG], K Hall [FG], Whale [FG])
2nd XI drew 1-1 vs Tunbridge Wells (A)
(Neale [PS])
3rd XI lost 6-1 vs Ashford (H)

 

1st XI
BBHC ladies, sitting 8th in the league, travelled along to Sittingbourne for their 9th league game of the season to play high-flying 4th place, Gore Court.

A late afternoon game for the girls, and missing a few of the squad due to injury and alcohol related engagements in Ireland. So Karen White made another starring performance again in goal for us following Nev's knee injury. Also, up from the 2's we had dynamic duo Tina Bosworth and Sarah Whale. Tina even went out and bought a skirt especially for the occasion, and a new stick. Go on the Bosworth.

Before the game there was a potential volatile situation when Susan Mary Bridget Hetherington threw a banana skin at Z Hubbard (nanna moon) and Zoe has a very serious phobia of fruit!!!.

However, we moved on and got ready to tackle the always brutal and scary Gore Court 1st team. BBHC started at a strong tempo, probably to match Gore Court who were well up for it, and taking no prisoners on the 50/50 tackles. Twelve minutes into the first half BBHC, went 1-0 up when from our second short corner "tick tock" routine saw the ball miss G Smith, fall to Sarah Harvey, who then slipped it back across the goal where G was waiting on the P spot for it's arrival. She clinically slotted it into the goal.

Gore Court rallied and maintained a strong attacking momentum, and were rewarded with the equaliser from a penalty corner. This was then the test for BBHC to see if we would continue with our own positive attacking hockey. BBHC were also reprieved when a Gore Court shot hit the post and fell kindly for the defence to clear.

We clearly did. Still in the 1st half we had a free hit outside the Gore Court D, G Smith hit a good ball in, which as intended went past the left foot of the GC defender and actually went all the way through where it met AshleighDavenport who did her job to get the touch and put the ball past the goalie right in the corner. This was a key moment for BBHC in the game. We were back in front, and were playing like a strong aggressive hockey team. The kind of form which we have been searching for since September.

Gore Court were in no way letting us take the game away from them. Heading in to half time the BBHC defence did an excellent job of soaking up the pressure they put on us. A few occasions where the home side had so many attempts right on the goal line, its a wonder they hadn't equalise again. Tina Bosworth up from the 2's played really well, and took on the role of sweeper expertly. Karen White in goal pulled off save after save, and had 70 minutes of excellent goal keeping.

The second half saw much of the same from both sides. Gore Court applied heavy pressure, and we had a spell camped out in our own D. On the break, we then went up the other end and caused a major upset by going 3-1 up. The goal came from break, Ashleigh driving up the pitch with Gen Sweeney, who was having an excellent game (player of the match). Karen Hall was on call to slot the ball in on the post.

BBHC continued being the "sponge", soaking up the Gore Court pressure. Gore Court had a short corner and from a hit which went in the top of the net, the umpire gave the goal claiming it had flicked up into the air off the floor. He gave the goal. BBHC protested, and Sarah Harvey found the offending item on the astro pitch and removed it. Even Gore Court had to appreciate they were lucky with that decision.

It mattered little in the end as BBHC then got their 4th and final goal when S Hetherington intercepted a pass in midfield, picked out Gen Sweeney on the right, with a well measured pass. Gen found Sarah Whale waiting on the P spot who slotted home with ease.

BBHC were deservedly jubilant and ecstatic with their performance and the result.

 

2nd XI
A depleted BBHC 2nd XI travelled to Tunbridge Wells for a tough test in the last league game before Christmas. The game started of a fairly even with both team stringing some good moves together. However, the "new look" 2nd XI having not played together took some time to gel. Tunbridge Wells were rewarded half way through he first have when a neat move was coolly finished, BBHC despite the strong opposition, defended the goal valiantly seeing off TW until half time.

A half time talk by captain Kim, saw a much more positive team come out for the 2nd half. The team played together as a unit and defended excellently, putting the opposition under constant pressure. The constant pressure finally resulted in a well earnt penalty flick, which Mel Neale converted with ease. The last 10 minutes saw both teams pushing for win but neither could. Final score 1-1. A well earned point for the 2nd XI with determined effort from all that played.

 

3rd XI
An under strength 3rd XI visited Ashford. Despite the lack of third team regulars, BBHC started off the game very brightly. it was not long before the 3rd XI took the lead after a superb run from Leah Kember-Hollands was finished in style. BBHC looked the better team for much of the half putting some good moves together and creating several good chances on goal. However, as the half drew to a close Ashford struck back with two swift goals allowing Ashford to go in at the half time break 2 -1 up.

Despite a positive first half, BBHC struggled in the second half against an experienced opposition. The good linking play from Ashford left the BBHC defence stretched for long periods. The second half saw a fit Ashford side put away a further 4 goals against the young and tired BBHC side.

Despite the unflattering score line of 1-6, BBHC can take heart in that a large proportion of the team were under the age of 16 and will continue to improve as a team throughout the season and into next.

 

COLTS
Sunday 4th December:
England Hockey U18 Boys Plate 1st round
U18 Boys lost 4-1 vs South Saxons (A)
(Ashenden [FG])

U14 Boys lost 12-0 vs Bromley & Beckenham (H)

 

U18 Boys
BBHC's U18 Boys travelled to the East Sussex coast to face South Saxons in the 1st round of the England Hockey U18s Plate 1st round yesterday. Both having been knocked out of the Cup competition got a 2nd chance to grab some glory. The impressive Horntye Park Sports Complex in Hastings was the venue for an entertaining and hard-fought tie.

The first 20 minutes saw honours even as the muscular BBHC defence kept the speedy Saxons forward line at bay, with possession constantly being exchanged. Jordan Laws made his first start in goal in the absence of Tom Golding and performed solidly despite his lack of matches due to work commitments. However, BBHC sorely missed four outfield squad members since the spine of the starting line-up was obviously weekend. This soon told when a Saxons penalty corner was driven home followed a minute later by a patiently-worked field goal.

This forced BBHC to resort to the counter-attack, but were caught on the break themselves where some ineffective defending allowed the home side through for their third goal. 3-0 seemed a harsh score line as half-time approached, yet Saxons' compact formation allowed them to retain possession, while BBHC's back line were too deep and resulted in their forwards becoming isolated. However, one quick break yielded a goal to keep the visitors in the tie. With the world on his shoulders, Sam Ashenden picked the ball up at the half-way line and made a dazzling run through the South Saxons defence to slip the ball coolly past the 'keeper. A contender for goal of the season!

A positive half-time team talk stabilised the ship, with some more accomplished BBHC defending bringing some pride back to the visitors. However, this did not yield many chances, as the B's continued to rely on quick counter-attacks. The best one of these was created late by Sam Ashenden for Mark Pellat, but his firm strike from the top of the D went inches wide of the post. By then, Saxons had squeezed a fourth goal and sustained a few injuries but were resilient enough to firmly hold onto the game.

A 4-1 loss but some lessons learned for the boys in their first season of U18s hockey. Many thanks to Matt Thurlow and Alan Johnson for driving, and again to Matt for umpiring. Next up are Old Bordenians (H) in the league on Sunday 29th January 2006.

 

U14 Boys
BBHC U14 boys team had to face their toughest opposition yet, Bromley & Beckenham. They were a well drilled team with every player confident on the ball. This quickly exposed the poor BBHC marking and lack of strength in the tackle to keep the score moving along in their favour. Only some good work from Joe Brown and goalkeeper Kortney Monah-Macquillan kept the score down to 0-6 at half time. BBHC started the second half in a more positive way, the marking was better and the tackling stronger, particularly from Karan Chana, which allowed BBHC to create some movement forward. Unfortunately when B&B got their seventh goal BBHC discipline slipped and they rattled five more before the final whistle to make the score 0-12.

It was a brave performance from a young and weakened BBHC team who kept trying until the end..
The team can be proud of a good performance against a much stronger (and older) opposition. Special mentions to Kortney in goal who made some superb saves, fantastic defending from Brown and Chana and the endless work put in by both Jamie Saunders and Charlie Maunsell.

 

 

Saturday 26th November 2005

MEN
1st XI lost 3-1 vs Tunbridge Wells (H)
(Deeks [FG])
2nd XI won 3-2 vs Canterbury Millers (A)
(Ashenden [FG], P Price [FG], Stanley [PC])
3rd XI - NO GAME
4th XI lost 2-0 vs Kings College (A)
5th XI lost 3-2 vs Marden Russets (A)
(Agyei [PC], Rookes [PS])
6th XI lost 7-1 vs Old Bordenians (H)
Veterans won 3-1 vs Addiscombe (A)
(I Palmer 3 [2FG, PC])

 

1st XI
A cold but sunny day at Erith School saw BBHC faired against Tunbridge Wells. Pre-match photo out of the way, the away team started the game brightly and were soon in front thanks to an early Christmas present from the BBHC defence. However, BBHC rallied well and following a spell of pressure, the T Wells left back gifted the ball to BBHC record medal winner Chris Deeks at the top of the D. Deeks made no mistake as he crashed the ball past the T Wells keeper's head. 1-1, two gifts and Santa Claus was thinking he might be out of business this year!

BBHC were creating chances at will. However, the excitement was too much for Dave Cole. Not content with the green card from the umpire he continued to question the man in orange's parentage and worst of all umpiring ability, cue a yellow card and "Richard" of the day. All hands were then to the pump for the home side and BBHC held on until half time.

Early in the second half T Wells edged in front when a free hit from outside the D found their centre forward unmarked in front of goal. BBHC fought hard to find an equaliser. However, they could find no way through a resolute T Wells defence and were unfortunate to concede another after Ben Bradley's rash tackle in the D was converted. Final score 3-1 to T Wells. Man of the match, keeper, young Tom Golding.

 

2nd XI
In a weekend that saw the league leaders lose the first game of the season BBHC visited Canterbury, who at the start of the day were also joint second. For the first 10 minutes BBHC dominated Canterbury. Quick swift passing throughout the team saw Canterbury hardly register a touch. Despite the sublime play from BBHC they were unable to finish off the chances they created. The game was temporarily halted after a Canterbury defender took a ball to the head and had to be taken to A & E. This break came at an unwelcome time for BBHC who had there momentum stopped in it's tracks. As the game restarted Canterbury had finally awoke and started to trouble the BBHC defence. Canterbury undeservedly took the lead from a well struck short corner. BBHC continued to put pressure on Canterbury and soon drew level when a solo
run by Phil price was finished off in style on his reverse stick. The half finished 1 -1.

Two minutes into the 2nd half BBHC were leading after Mark Pickersgill's ball into the D was deflected passed the keeper by Sam Ashenden , who seemed to know little about it. The second half was a much more open affair with both sides creating chances. However, it took a deflection by BBHC defender Adrian Webster to wrong foot Jim Jackson in goal and bring the game level for the home side. As the game drew to a close BBHC dominated Canterbury in the final 10 minutes but were unable to find the net despite numerous opportunities. Just as the final whistle was to blow BBHC won a final short corner. BBHC failed to score from this as time was blown before the short corner had been completed. This lead to the short corner having to be replayed and a very red faced umpire. As the whole team came up for the this final piece of
play. The initial strike was saved by the keeper but was followed up by Pete Stanley to give BBHC the win. Canterbury should feel hard done by after it appeared they had managed to salvage a draw but BBHC deserved no less that the win.

Next week, BBHC face joint second place HSBC who will be on a high after thrashing a top of the table New Becs.

 

5th XI
BBHC fielded only nine players on a cold afternoon at Marden after two late withdrawals, but this did not stop them taking the lead in the first two minutes from a penalty corner following a clumsy tackle on the edge of the 'D'. Martin Agyei was the scorer. This setback stunned the home side who, despite their numerical superiority, were totally unable to take control of the game and it was not until late in the first half that they managed to score from a penalty corner and then open play to reach the half time break in the lead.

After the change of ends, BBHC squandered a chance to get back on equal terms when Jonathan Rooks failed to convert a penalty stroke awarded when the ball struck the foot of a defender in front of goal. They then went further behind when the Marden forwards forced their way into the visitors goalmouth and scored following some good work by David Corker making a guest appearance as 'keeper. Undaunted the visitors rallied again and managed to force the same Marden defender into committing a similar offence, this time time Rooks took full advantage to bring the score back to 3 - 2.

Play then went from end to end with some excellent open play as each side tried to increase their goal tally, but with the light fading the final whistle left the honours with Marden and BBHC wondering what may have been if they had had a full side available.

 

Vets
On Thursday night 13 players had declared themselves available to travel to Adddiscombe to promote BBHC's veterans' hockey interests. By Friday night it was ten. By the end of Saturday morning (by which time the captain was considering not answering his telephone) we were down to eight (none of whom were designated goalkeepers). Although we knew two players were making their own way, the sight of six players leaving the club to do battle with an uncertain foe did not instil confidence. It was a case of fulfilling a fixture because that is what you do at this level (you see, I'm learning!), and then coming home whatever the consequence. Hopes hung at half mast. A pasting, we thought, was just around the corner.

By the time we were half-way there our numbers were up to nine, following a pleading message left with the 6th team captain (whose team played earlier in the day) to bring with him to Addiscombe anyone who owned a stick, which procured a singular positive response of only the 6th team captain. We had hoped he might bring two friends as well, but apparently they had all buggered off. Proof, if proof were needed, that you cannot rely on 6th team captains.

We arrived at Addiscombe's ground (a quaint and visually pleasing panorama) and the captain immediately went to work to see if we could entice someone sitting around to play for us. A copeless looking youth called Peter said he would play, but he let it be known he had not played for three years, had had recent invasive shoulder surgery and would not tackle, or hit the ball in any circumstance. He would push it, but that was it. What a plonker, the captain thought, but an available plonker, so we signed him up. We were then up to ten. The captain subsequently went in search of a volunteer from the BBHC contingent who would play in goal. Never in the history of human conflict have so many people avoided eye-contact for so long. Since every bugger had left the changing room having failed to put on the goalkeeping kit, the captain put it on. A pasting, he thought, was just around the corner.

The game began. Our ten men were (as yet) numbering only nine because Anup (whose interest in chronological accuracy is less advanced than his pharmaceutical skills) had not yet arrived. Addiscombe had two substitutes which they failed to make available to us. This email is published on a website which is open to public access, so the captain will not mention what he thought about this.

We held on manfully with nine men, our goalkeeper getting colder and colder with nothing whatsoever to do. Peter (the guest non-tackling, non-hitting copeless youth) had clearly played at an advanced level, and could push the ball with astonishing accuracy. He could also run at breath-taking speed. Anyone who had previously considered him a plonker was a horse's arse. Anup turned up ten minutes into the game in a frantic display of dawdling. He eventually sauntered onto the pitch a full twenty minutes after arriving at the ground (what on earth was he doing all that time?) and within a minute we were winning (an Ian Palmer non-passing classic, but we didn't mind). It was a goal deservedly scored because BBHC had worked harder, by a country mile, than our hosts. Five minutes later it was 2 - 0 (an Ian Palmer short corner classic). One minute before half time our goalkeeper was involved in an heroic kicking of the ball from the top of the penalty area. He mentions this only because it was all he had to do during the half, although it must be said everyone else looked a bit puffed at the break. The entire team (with the exception of the goalkeeper, and perhaps Anup who was looking merely warm) had worked their socks off.

By the way, during the first half, whilst BBHC were working very, very hard to protect their goalkeeper, the captain (during long bouts of inactivity) had occasion to watch sizable chunks of a game of Lacrosse that was going on on a pitch next door. I can tell you that it is a very rough game indeed, with no discernable rules. This explains the 6th team's captain's robust approach to the nobler game.

The second half was much the same. We went 3-0 up (an Ian Palmer non-passing classic, but we didn't mind). Addiscombe then adopted a tactical change, whereby they decided to play in our half for twenty minutes or so. It was an inspired decision, culminating in a telling short corner routine, which was only successful because Jagi's stick suffered some short of temporary time/space continuum anomaly, resulting in the ball going straight through it.

The second half was notable for two incidents - firstly the two umpires had a stand up row over a distance of twenty paces concerning the awardance (if that is a word) of a short corner; and secondly the sending off (unfairly, but nonetheless true) of the 6th team captain, for heroically squaring up to the man-mountain they call 'Whisky' after having had his head robustly clouted by the man-mountain's stick. We cannot condone any behaviour that results in the BBHC team being reduced in number, but it was jolly good fun to watch.

So we finished, as we began, with nine men. But significantly we were 1-3 winners.

No Dorrises were deemed appropriate in such a hard-working display (although Anup came close, as did the 6th team captain).

As such, two Morrises were awarded. The first went to Arthur Davies (astonishingly his first ever!), for single-handedly dominating the midfield, in spite of being outnumbered 2:1. The second went to Ian for being, for the second week running, a hat trick hero.

 

LADIES
1st XI drew 1-1 vs Sevenoaks (A)
(K Hall [FG])
2nd XI won 2-1 vs Marden Russets (H)
(Crowley [FG[, Tina [FG])

 

1st XI
The ladies gathered together on a cold and windy Saturday for our 8th league game of the season. BBHC sitting in 8th position in East Div 2 South, Sevenoaks 3rd place. The team were missing manager Sally, but due to star goalkeeper Nev Hamlet sustaining a serious ligament injury last week, she was able to take on the managers role.

BBHC have shown better form at home so far this season. The game began and BBHC were disciplined and controlled. Sevenoaks did trouble us a few times in the fist half. Karen White the goalie up from the 3's did a great job along with the defence to keep Sevenoaks from scoring.

Up the other end BBHC had some attacking chances , Gen Sweeney had a good couple of runs at the 'Oaks defence and caused them to sweat a bit. Karen Hall also applied some good pressure and penetrated the D a few times. We entered half time in a 0-0 deadlock.

BBHC restarted positively, and continued to work as a unit and put pressure on 'Oaks. However, Sevenoaks were the first to break the deadlock over halfway through the second half, when their striker got away from the BBHC defence, and a ball was crossed into our D and the 'Oaks striker dived on the floor and got the crucial deflection putting the ball at pace, into the netting. There was nothing White could have done to stop what was an impressive goal.

It was a test for BBHC to then keep their heads up, and carry on with attacking positive hockey. There was a little fatigue setting in, but we did attack and look like we could get an equaliser at least. Then we were rewarded with a deserved goal when Netty hitting it in, forced the goalie to make a save, and then after some fumbling on the line, Karen Hall duly put it away. BBHC were jubilant, and right back in the game. We then dominated and looked like we could get the winner. We just didn't have time on our side.

A well worked point from a game which could have easily slipped away if we had let out heads go down after they scored. A much better all round performance from BBHC, and something to build on going forward. Still need to work on those short corners.

 

2nd XI
BBHC Ladies' 2's began slowly allowing the opposition, Marden Russets, frequent chances on goal, but with some great defending Marden were unable to score. However, a mistake in defence left BBHC 1-0 down, although this wasn't to be the final score. In the last 15 minutes of the first half BBHC picked up their game, leading to their first chance on goal and scoring from it by a young Sorcha Crowley. This picked up BBHC's game even more, resulting in a short corner for them and Tina scoring from her first strike on goal. However, BBHC started to relax again resulting in a 3 on 2 situation, a crucial save made by the keeper. The first half ended with BBHC 2-1 up.

After a great team talk BBHC started the second half with most of the possession. Injuries to left BBHC struggling, but still working hard. In the final 10 minutes of the game, Marden Russets picked up their game knowing they needed to score to level the game, they countered attacked repeatedly but some great defending kept the ball away from the goal line. The remaining 2 minutes of the game left BBHC under increasing pressure from the opposition, they received a short corner and the ball was STRUCK in from top of the D, despite the shot beating the BBHC defence the goal was disallowed leaving the final score 2-1 to BBHC.

 

COLTS
Sunday 27th November:
U18 Boys won 8-4 vs Gore Court (A)
U14 Girls drew 2-2 vs Burnt Ash (H)

 

U18 Boys
BBHC's U18 Boys faced Gore Court (a) in their second Kent Boys league fixture of the season, wary of a side likely to contain some of the U16s that taught BBHC a lesson in hockey last year. However, coupled with Gore Court having to field their U18 Girls keeper in goal, the domination of the midfield this time was more in BBHC's favour.

The conditions were chilly but almost perfect for hockey at Westlands School in Sittingbourne. A bright start by Sam Ashenden and Vince Moore in central midfield saw BBHC camped in the opposing half for the first 15 minutes and allowed to take advantage of the initial lack of confidence of the home side's GK. David "Dazie" Humber nutmegged her with a soft deflection for his first after 2 minutes, then tapped home his second 6 minutes later. The game started to open out as Gore Court started to assert themselves soon after, but confusion in their D allowed Dazie to tap home his hat-trick after Doug Williamson had slipped it past the keeper.

The major disappointment of the tie was the B's inability to get any form of shot from the 4 penalty corners they had been awarded by then. The hosts proved far from proflagate in this area, converting 2 quick set pieces of their own while the BBHC defence were remained indecisive on those pair of occassions. Indeed, their first marked a resurgence in Gore Court's all round play, with effective use of passing triangles to bypass the BBHC midfield and therefore they fully deserved their 2 goals. Their goalkeeper, too, began to raise her level with a solid save from a vicious, lifted shot by Vince Moore. Thankfully, BBHC were able to hit back via Scott Bennett as the half ended. He created space for himself in the D to ease the ball home from close range.

This hockey match was still open to Gore Court, witht he score at 4-2. Since a number of first half chances had gone begging, it was therefore vital that the visitors extended their lead. The wish came true thanks to some ill discipline in the Gore Court defence. A green card awarded for dissent a minute in resulted in a free hit just inside the home side's half. This was quickly taken by Stephen Mason and his bullet-like strike found James Strattan at the top of the D. A smart turn sent his defender the wrong way, affording himself time to strike the ball sweetly into the corner of the goal. Finally, a worthy effort! Strattan was on hand again 3 minutes later to score, and BBHC were finally cruising.

Two minutes on, Ashenden gave the visitors a goal from a short corner - his drag flick was comfortably at head height for the Gore Court keeper but her parry only deflected the ball down onto her goal-line and in. This 3 goal salvo served as another wake-up call to her team mates, who replied in kind with a third set piece goal from their next penalty corner. BBHC suffered a second setback a few minutes later as defender Lee Humber was sent to the sin bin after a foul. However, the advantage offered was not capitallised on until after Humber returned, where Gore Court pressurised BBHC sufficiently to allow a forward to dribble into the D and finish in style.

The drama was not over despite only 5 minutes remaining. Persistant dissent to the away umpire by a Gore Court defender led to the award of his own yellow card. Further verbal abuse as he left the pitch upgraded his prize to a red card and a permanent dismissal. Disciplinary action by the hosts will be sufficient to deal with this, with the agreement of the umpire involved.

And the final word in the game was BBHC's. A measured through ball by Ashenden sent Strattan behind the defence and through on goal. He drew the keeper out-of-position and could easily have scored his hat-trick goal, yet chose to cut the ball across to Vince Moore bundle the ball home. Final score 8-4 to BBHC.

Ashenden's tireless display in midfield earned him the man-of-the-match votes to pip Strattan, while keeper Tom Golding earned the reverse award! This performance was by no means complete, but showed a great deal of progress since the drubbing handed out by Bromley & Beckenham in their first match.

Next up are South Saxons (a) in Hastings next Sunday in the EH Plate 1st round, where they look forward to welcoming back Alfie Johnson to the starting line-up..

 

 

Saturday 19th November 2005

MEN
1st XI lost 6-2 vs Maidstone (A)
(Ashby [FG], Perfitt [FG])
2nd XI won 6-0 vs Gore Court (H)
(Pickersgill [FG], P Price [PS], Tither 2 [FG, PC], Alex Webster [PC], Westbrook [FG])
3rd XI won 5-0 Blackheath (A) (Game conceded by Blackheath)
4th XI won 2-1 vs Old Bordenians (H)
(S Chana [FG], S Porter [FG])
5th XI lost 5-1 Old Bordenians (H)
6th XI won 2-1 vs Wellcome (A)
(Brine [FG], Adrian Webster [FG])
Veterans won 4-2 vs Croydon MO (H)
(I Palmer 3 [2FG, PC], Richmond [FG])

 

1st XI
BBHC travelled to league leaders Maidstone with high hopes of causing an upset. The early exchanges were frantic with both teams evenly matched. Maidstone took the lead with a close range finish leaving keeper Tom Golding with no chance. BBHC fought back with Jamie Perfitt making several breaks down the right. Several chances were spurned before Steve Ruddock beat his man and got off a powerful shot. The keeper could only parry the shot leaving Jamie Perfitt to tap the ball home.

After the interval Maidstone pushed forward and converted their chances with two clinical finishes to make it 3-1. A defensive error allowed Maidstone to further extend their lead before a Mark Ashby deflection brought the score back to 4-2. BBHC sensing a possible comeback pushed men forward but were twice caught on the counter attack with some well worked moves from the home side. The final score was 6-2. With the BBHC man of the match going to Ian Cole.

 

2nd XI
After last week's thrashing of Burnt Ash, BBHC's Men's 2nd XI looked to continue the good form which has seen them rise up the league. With the early start being less than agreeable to some of the BBHC team, the game started off a little shaky with poor passing and a lack of creativity. Visitors, Gore Court, should have taken the lead when they had the chance since once the 2nd XI got going, there was no stopping them. After several well worked short corners had been cleared, BBHC took the lead from an unstoppable strike form Alex Webster. This lead was soon doubled as Andy Tither finished off another well worked short corner from close range. BBHC continued to dominate the game and went in 3 - 0 up after Tither scored again after spectacularly volleying the ball in from the far post. BBHC extended their tally minutes after the break after some good work from Tej Chaggar resulted in a penalty flick, which was coolly converted by Phil Price.

Sensing the game was all over, BBHC sat back and allowed Gore Court to take the game by the scruff of the neck. Despite some good work from the away side, they were unable to grab a goal. As the game entered the last 10 minutes BBHC finished off in style with captain Mark Pickersgill powerfully finishing with an unstoppable flick. Just as the final whistle was about to go Derren Westbrook completed the 6 - 0 win, with a near post effort. Another good win for the 2nd XI sees them keep pressure on the league leaders, with BBHC now second in the league.

 

3rd XI
The 3rd XI were awarded a 5 - 0 victory after the opposition Blackheath were unable to field a goal keeper. In the friendly played between the two sides saw a unenergetic 3rd XI lose 6 - 3.

 

4th XI
The 4th XI took on high flying Old Bordenians with strong prospects on paper. Minutes in and it looked like another down hill trip as Bordenians sliced through a defence, disorganised by personnel changes, and slipped past an injured keeper. Using the first sub of the day, the keeper was came off and the defence reformed and got their heads up. As the first half came to a close, Bordenians had barely threatened the BBHC 'D' and constant pressure finally paid off as the home side equalized through Sammy Chana.

A strong second half saw the game running in BBHC's favour with Old Bordenians having little response to constant pressure. With numerous chances passing by; Steve Porter finalyl put the ball in the goal with 10 minutes to go. Keeping strong defensively, BBHC looked the only ones likely to score and the game came to a close with a 2-1 win for BBHC.

 

6th XI
This week the 6th XI visited top of the table Wellcome. The game started off fairly evenly with both sides utilising the space and creating good chances. However, as the half progressed BBHC took control of the game with good passing through out the team. BBHC took the lead through some good build up play finished off with style by Iain Brine. However, Wellcome soon drew level when a dubious short corner resulted in a penalty flick, Despite keeper Kortney Monah Macquillan's best efforts, Wellcome were on level terms. Just before the half time interval BBHC again took the lead with a lucky deflection from Adrian Webster. The second half was a fairly even affair with both teams creating good opportunities from both sides. Special credit to the young BBHC attackers Joe Brown, Gareth Jones and Sumeet Dhinsa who contributed much with good passing and creative movement up front. The final score a 2 - 1 victory to BBHC.

 

Vets
This week we entertained Croydon MO, one of only two teams to have previously beaten us this season. By recent standards this was an unremarkable game. No one turned up drunk. No one fell over in amusing ways. It was a game where the psychological bruisings incurred during the 'rumble-in-the-cornfield' neeeded massaging back into health. Croydon are a workmanlike, but ultimately unremarkable side, who turned us over at their place. This was a game we felt we needed to win, because we did not believe them to be better than us then, and we still don't.

The captain is of the opinion that is it rather rude to score a goal against a side before everyone has had an opportunity to touch the ball. Only four players on the pitch (their centre forward who took the push forward and three of our team - Alex McLaren, Ian Palmer and Peter Richmond) selfishly hogged the game for all of thirty seconds before we were one up, Peter nudging in a shot which was going very, very wide. Anticipating an easy ride we relaxed into dominating (sadly unprofitably) the game, until an incident of major copelessness the like of which defies description (I will protect the guilty party from public humiliation, but he knows who he is) enabled Croydon to equalise. Shortly after this, in spite of more BBHC dominance, we were 2-1 down, to a goal of some quality, so we didn't mind that one. An inspired substitution saw Arthur Davies back in harness with Alex in the midfield, and things immediately improved. Even before the substitute had put his jumper on we were back to 2-2, although the captain cannot describe the goal, since he was putting on a jumper at the time.

Half time saw a difficult substitution since Mark Whiteacre, who had kept goal soberly, had picked up an unfortunate groin injury. Graeme Perman took his place. The second half saw more sustained pressure from BBHC. The dangerous Croydon players (identified acurately by Francis at half time) were effectively marked out of the game (well done the midfield) and we scored two more goals (both by Ian, one from a short corner - this feature of our game goes from strength to strength) to finish worthy winners. 4-2. There was a feeling of 'job done' at the end.

The Morris went to Ian for being a hat-trick hero.
The Doris went to Mark Whiteacre, for injuring himself unnecessarily.

Thanks are due to Barry for umpiring (this is becoming a constant role, and we are very, very grateful, because he does it so willingly and so well), Ken for single-handedly getting the noodles, Ken and Jagi for serving up the noodles, the captain for loading the dish washer, and Peter for again knowing how the dish washer works. The post-match festivities were made all the more pleasant by a jug bought by Ian following his hattrick, and another bought by Paul Harvey as reward for every team in the club winning last week. These gestures are very much appreciated (hic!).

So, the season so far. Played 9. Won 6. Drawn 1. Lost 2. Goals for 28. Goals against 21.

 

LADIES
1st XI lost 4-0 vs Holcombe (H)
2nd XI lost 2-0 vs Ashford (A)
3rd XI lost 7-3 vs HSBC (A)

 

COLTS
Sunday 20th November: England Hockey U18 Boys Cup 2nd round
U18 Boys lost 6-0 vs. Southgate HC (H)

 

BBHC's U18 Boys had their biggest game in recent memory as they faced Southgate HC from North London in the England Hockey U18 Boys Cup 2nd round. Southgate's Men's 1st XI play in England Hockey's National League. With a healthy home crowd cheering them on, BBHC started much the brighter and enjoyed a healthy amount of possession. Captain Alfie Johnson played his first game of the season and added some steel to the home side's spine and provided a solid base to launch attacks from. However, Southgate's swift left-winger eventually broke through and created the visitor's opening goal. BBHC continued to create openings but Sam Ashenden, David Humber and James Strattan were unable to convert their early chances. Meanwhile, Southgate's influence steadily grew and they punished the hosts shortly before half-time as their forward was allowed to reach the right-hand baseline and slip the ball home from the tight angle for the 2-0 lead.

A positive team-talk by coach Kevin King kept up team spirit and renewed optimism, yet BBHC could not covert their short corners. A Southgate goal shortly after the break set the pattern for the remainder of the match, preying on wasteful possession by the tiring BBHC to counter more effectively. This resulted in 2 quick Southgate goals in the middle of the second half and the sixth and final one with 3 minutes to go.

Despite the scoreline, the BBHC boys were happy with the performance against their more savvy visitors and were only disappointed not to get onto the score sheet themselves. This was good experience for the lads, who now go into the EH U18's Plate competition on the 4th/11th December.

 

 

Saturday 12th November 2005

MEN
1st XI won 7-2 vs Old Bordenians (H)
(Ashby 3 [2FG, PC], D Cole [FG], V Moore [FG], Perfitt 2 [2FG],
2nd XI won 6-1 vs Burnt Ash (A)
(Ashenden [FG], Chaggar [FG], Deeks 3 [2FG, PC], Alex Webster [PC],)
3rd XI lost 3-1 vs Holcombe (H)
(D Humber [FG])
4th XI lost 5-1 vs Blackheath (A)
5th XI lost 5-1 vs Maidstone (A)
5th XI vs Maidstone (H) - Maidstone conceded
Veterans 3-2 vs Burnt Ash (H)
(Anup [FG], Palmer 2 [2FG])

 

1st XI
BBHC Mens 1st Team maintain their push for promotion with a convincing 7:2 win over newly promoted Old Bordenians, keeping them in 4th place. Old Bordenians took the lead early on when Kev King gave the ball away at the top of the D and BBHC were punished as GK Tom Golding was beaten at his near post. BBHC hit straight back with 3 goals, Mark Ashby deflecting in a well worked short corner, Jamie Perfitt diving to get on the end of an excellent cross from a long corner and Ashby getting his second. The half time score was 3:1 which also included, Perfitt making fierce appeals to the umpire for another goal even though the ball had not even crossed the line and an Old Bordenians player being red carded for allegedly swinging his stick at Ashby's head.

The second half did not start well with Old Bordenians getting one back. BBHC never really looked in trouble though and the numerical advantage began to tell with Ashby getting on the end of a Steve Rudducks short corner strike to make it 4:2. Old Bordenians only real threat was from their talented forward and after skilfully turning Ben Bradley, was scythed down by him and even though the Old Bordenians coach was calling for equal punishment, Bradley was only given a yellow. At 10 players each, King decided to call for a half-court press and the game remained at 4:2 until Bradley came back on. BBHC again took control of the game with Perfitt getting a tap in and Dave Cole scoring from a broken down short corner. That made the game 6:2 but in the dying moments, with a good run across the face of the Old Bordenians D the ball broke to debut man Vince Moore, who rifled it into the top corner ..... well he seemed to top it, the keeper went down and some how the ball found its way into the goal. A resounding 7:2 win.Man of the match went to Mark for his hatrick. "Richard" of the day was a draw between Dan Lucas and Steve "Boy Band" Harding. Lucas for his proud 2nd XI team photograph of the previous weekend, that appeared in the Kent Messenger, and Boy Band for his exceptionally camp pose while listening to Kev's team talk !! Settled in time honoured fashion, Boy Band lost the dance off and had to wear the dick of the day outfit.

Next week's game is away to league leaders Maidstone.

 

2nd XI
After last week's disappointing result BBHC 2nd XI were looking to take revenge against local "rivals" Burnt Ash. BBHC soon showed the home side their intentions for the game when Tej Chaggar scored within the first two minutes with an unstoppable finish from close range. This lead was short live however when a defensive error in the heart of the D lead to an easy comeback for Burnt Ash. This goal lifted Ash's spirits and was followed by a good attacking spell. BBHC weathered the storm though and soon picked up their game, with good flowing moves throughout the team. BBHC went in at half time 2 - 1 up after Chris Deeks slipped it passed the keeper after a good solo run.

The second half saw BBHC run riot. The score was extended minutes after the break when Chris Deeks scored his second after a well worked short corner from Mark Pickersgill. BBHC dominated the play with quick passing. The game was put out of reach for Burnt Ash when Chris Deeks completed his hat-trick after chasing down, what looked like a lost cause, and cheekily chipping over the downed keeper. Credit to an Ash side who continued to try and work their way back into the game but the BBHC defence stayed solid . As the game came to a close the score was further extend when Adrian Webster passed the ball home from the top of the D. BBHC completed the scoring when midfield "work horse" Sam Ashenden put home from close range as the game came to the end.

 

3rd XI
The men's 3rd XI was seeking another win after last week’s excellent performance. With visitors Holcombe 3Bs top of the table and not lost a game they started with only 10 players which at times was harder than playing 11. After 15 minutes the visitors went 1-0 up. This was short lived as the home side equalized from David Humber in open play.

The start of the second half the visitors returned with a full team. It was an evenly played game with both sides creating chances. but with a strong midfield Holcombe managed to overcome the exposed defence Holcombe managed to convert two. The final score 3-1.

 

Veterans
Some fixtures in the sporting calendar are more significant than others. The Grand National. The first morning of an Ashes series. Wimbledon finals day. BBHC v Burnt Ash. Expectation is in the air. Every man wants to play. No one needs a pep talk. Some even get so excited they take wine before the game just to settle the nerves. So it was this Saturday. Half of the (worryingly full-strength) Burnt Ash team turned up a bit flustered as they had thought it was a home game at their place. They apologised profusely for being late, but they needn't have worried because the last person onto the pitch was our goalkeeper, Mr Whiteacre. I would like to report that Mr Whiteacre was similarly full of profuse apologies as he entered the arena, however I am unable to do so. He merely reminded the opposition what a bunch of tossers they were and how they were going to take one hell of a beating. He then came up to the right end and encouraged our players with an endearing medley of profanity. We suspected at this stage that our goalkeeper may have become inadvertently slaughtered over lunch, and indeed we were to discover the accuracy of our hypothesis.

The flustered nature of our opposition enabled BBHC to be 2-0 up inside five minutes - the first from a short corner (this is becoming pleasingly regular) by Ian Palmer, and the second by Anup (a superbly taken reverse stick glance). Then nothing of any interest happened until half time, when we all congratulated ourselves on a tight performance. Mr Whitacre apologised for the goal he had let in, which since we were winning 2-0 was curious behaviour, but we let it go. We reminded ourselves how losing teams always come out strongly, and as long as we kept everything tight for ten minutes or so all would be well.

Fifteen seconds later it was 2-1. Everything looked to be going wrong for at least 15 minutes. The defence was run ragged. Mr Whiteacre kept falling over, irrespective of whether the ball was in our penalty area or not. It was all hands to the pump for longer than we would have liked. However, out of the blue Ian scored us a wonderful individual goal where he got the ball at the top of our half and didn't pass it to anyone despite many opportunities, which is unusual for him, before banging it into the net. Almost immediately Burnt Ash scored another from a short corner. It was a soft goal really. I'm not sure our goalkeeper saw the ball. I'm not even convinced he saw the short corner.

There was an unfortunate incident involving a stick and Alex's cheek bone which necessitated a hospital visit and stitches. This was regrettable, firstly because Alex held the midfield together magnificently in this match and he was sorely missed, and secondly because Alex is rightly very proud of his looks, and by the end of the game he looked decidedly ugly.

By the end of the game Burnt Ash tired, and we finished strongly to come out 3-2 winners, worthily I believe.

The Morris went to Alex for being a midfield general, and to ease the pain of his rapidly swelling face.

The Doris went to Mr Whiteacre for multiple obvious reasons.

Thanks are due to Barry and Clayton for umpiring, Arthur and Frank for getting the noodles, the captain and Jagi for serving up the noodles, Roy for taking Alex to the hospital and back, Francis for loading the dish washer, and Peter for working out how the dish washer works.

The season so far. Played 8, won 5, drawn 1, lost 2. Goals for 24. Goals against 19.

 

LADIES
1st XI lost 3-1 vs St Albans (A)
3rd XI lost 1-0 vs Gore Court (H)

 

1st XI
BBHC ladies travelled up to St Albans for our 6th league game. Following a defeat last week, we needed the win, for points and moral.

St Albans at the bottom of our league, not won a game, scored only 1 goal, and let in 18. We knew that might make them really up for the game, as opposed to an easy win for us. The trouble was it didn't seem to get through to BBHC that we need to be fired up and wanting to go out there and play aggressive, intelligent hockey for 70 minutes. There really aren't many positives to say about the first half. A woeful display all round. St Albans who started much more positive, and supported each other took the lead when BBHC let them penetrate the D with little resistance. St Albans then got another goal, when a player was left free to slot in from a cross on the keepers pads. BBHC could not quite believe we were 2-0 down going into half time.

The second half was better from BBHC, a couple of changes proved to benefit things slightly. We were awarded with goal from a shot which seemed to pass through the bemused St Albans defence and suddenly it looked like we could claw ourselves back into the game.

As it was St Albans went on to get another goal near to the end, from a cracking strike. A good win for them, and they deserved it. BBHC will hopefully go away from this game and learn from it, and then put it behind us.

 

3rd XI
After strong performances in the 2 weeks previously BBHC were looking forward to another solid display but it just wasn't to be. Despite long spells of constant attacking and many short corners the home side were unable to finish off their moves. Gore Court took a undeserved lead midway through the first half from a well placed short corner. Just before half time the visitors had a goal disallowed after the ball was undercut at Ali Prior's head and into the net.

The second half continued in much the same way with BBHC having the majority of the play and limiting Gore Court's chances. As the game drew to a close BBHC scored but only to have their hopes dashed when the goal was disallowed for obstruction.The game finished as a disappointing 1 - 0 win to Gore Court.

Angela and Mel were awarded joint player of the match for some fantastic moves but we just unable to convert into a goal. This was a disappointing result after superb performances over the last two weeks.

 

COLTS
(Sunday 13th November)
U14 Girls lost 4-1 vs Bromley & Beckenham (H)
(L Kember-Hollands [FG])
Friendly: U18 Boys drew 3-3 vs Tulse Hill & Dulwich (H)
(Ashenden [FG], Haslewood [FG], Stratten [FG])

 

U14 Girls
An energetic warm up was needed for this cold November afternoon. The girls started positively showing solid defensive and midfield qualities with strong attack coming from BromBecks. Ellie Kember-Hollands made some crucial sweeping tackles to keep BromBecks out. BBHC held their shape and started to put passes together. Some strong running from Leah Kember-Hollands and inventive play by Hannah Johnson put BromBecks under a lot of pressure leading to several short corners. Unfortunately even after some excellent saves by Milly Palmer in goal BromBecks scored just before half time. The second half started furiously with a goal coming from BromBecks early on. BBHC fought back and when Leah Kember-Hollands converted a short corner with a fierce deflected shot they had a chance to get back into the game. But BromBecks increased the pressure and went on to slot in another 2 goals.

Full time score 4 - 1. A superb all round team performance. Player of the Match Hannah Johnson.

Players: Milly Palmer, Erin Courtney, Ellie Kember-Hollands, Chloe Lawrence,
Lauren Frankis, Sorcha Crowley, Hannah Johnson, Emma Miles, Leah
Kember-Hollands, Humaira Zahir, Maddy Humaira, Alysia Annette

 

U18 Boys
With the ominous proposition of facing Southgate in the England Hockey U18 Cup next Sunday in their minds, BBHC's U18 Boys played a friendly warm-up match against Tulse Hill & Dulwich to gain vital match practice together. The visitors required the services of BBHC's Sarah Brine in goal and Gareth Jones up front since they were missing their contingent from Alleyn's School. Both acquitted themselves very well. Tulse Hill looked the more organised in the first half, utilising the full width of the pitch to build their attacks. BBHC tried to respond in kind but proved more wasteful in possession. They were eventually punished at a short corner where poor defending left an unsighted Tom Golding in goal powerless to stop the simple strike. Meanwhile BBHC, were unable to convert any short corners of their own.

The second half brought some progress, with Sam Ashenden finally beating Brine with a close range shot. Tulse Hill soon responded with a well-worked goal from open play, only to be pegged back by a BBHC counterattack thanks to some smart skill by debutant James where he converted from a one-on-one. BBHC started to attack via the right channel more frequently, with the under-utilised width of Scott Moore finally coming into play. A resultant right wing break from Andrew Mendl saw James drive into the D and cause panic in the visitors D. Up popped fellow new-boy, Rob from left back to tap the ball home for what looked to be the winner. However, the Tulse Hill resilience saw them equalise for a deserved share of the result.

This fixture turned out to be essential match practice for BBHC as they looked to familiarise themselves with a pattern of play for their biggest match to date. Captain Alfie Johnson is set to return for his first U18s match of the season, and should add some steel to the BBHC spine. However, greater patience in possession is imperative for the boys, along with better execution of the basic skills, if they are to acquit themselves next Sunday.

 

 

Saturday 5th November 2005

MEN
1st XI drew 1-1 vs Herne Bay (A)
2nd XI lost 2-1 vs Marden Russets (H)
(Westbrook [FG])
3rd XI won 1-0 vs Old Alleyns 1st XI (A)
(A Humber [PC])
4th XI won 6-0 vs Wellcome (H)
(S Chana 2 [2FG], Gibbard 2 [2PC], Pearman [FG] S Porter [FG])
5th XI drew 1-1 vs Canterbury (A)
6th XI lost 6-2 vs Burnt Ash (A)
Veterans lost 5-1 vs Wallington (A)
(Palmer [FG])

 

Sunday 6th November (Harrod UK Men's Trophy: 1st round):
1st XI lost 5-2 vs Haslemere (H)

 

2nd XI
After last weeks dominating performance BBHC went into the game with confidence. This was short lived, however, when visitors Marden Russets immediately stamped their dominance on the game. Their swift movement and good range of passing caught BBHC unprepared but despite the constant barrage, the visitors were unable to convert these opportunities into goals. However, the best opportunity of the half fell to BBHC on one of several counter attacks with Andy Tither rounding the keeper leaving Phil Price to put the ball away from a yard. He failed miserably. At half time it was all even, 0 -0.

BBHC's performance in the second half did pick up creating more chances and winning short corners. However after a prolonged period of pressure by BBHC, the visitors caught them on the break and after an awkward tackle by Alex Webster resulted in a dubious P flick, which was duly converted.The game progressed with both sides still creating chances. As the final whistle approached BBHC had almost given up hope until Derren Westbrook ran almost the length of the pitch and sublimely finished with a rocket of a shot to even up the score. Marden were to have the last word though as on the final whistle they scored again deflecting a free hit past Jim Jackson in goal.

 

3rd XI
From the first whistle the opposition came at BBHC hard and with a constant fast attack after attack.But the visitors defence stayed strong beating off their attacks time after time. Conceding very few short corners and limiting the number of chances. As the first half progressed BBHC started to construct some attacking moves of their own and from one attack a short corner was won, from which Andy Humber hit and unstoppable shot between the keepers legs to give BBHC the lead.

The visitors stayed strong until half time giving time for BBHC re-group and regain some composure. The second half continued along the same pattern as the first but now the opposition was starting to lose their cool at their inability to break down the BBHC defence. The visitors managed to stay calm to claim a win 1-0.

 

4th XI
The 4th XI prepared for a much needed win after a third successive defeat. A highly structured and positive pre game talk and warm up saw BBHC start the game in a positive nature. The midfield re-found its shape after the previous weeks changes in personnel and soon started passing the ball around productively against the 10 man Wellcome side. Half time came and with lots of positives and a 2 goal cushion.A win looked certain.

The first 10-15 minutes of the second half saw Wellcome try and redeem the deficit but as the defence committed, lapses in concentration allowed Wellcome to counter. The midfield covered superbly dug deep and prevented Welcome’s comeback before taking an unassailable lead of 4-0. Some controversial Welcome goal keeping saw a stroke waved away by the umpire which put a second wind into the BBHC side who rounded off a good performance with another 2 goals. Scorers were John Gibbard (2), Sammy Chana (2), Ross Pearman (1) and Steve Porter (1).

 

5th XI
The visit to Canterbury was viewed with some concern as the home side had a 100% record which included scoring 39 goals and conceding only 4. True to form the visitors were soon put under pressure bringing two outstanding saves from James in goal although tight marking by the defence did limit chances available. This encouraged BBHC to become more aggressive and some good work by Scott Bennett and Mark Pellett brought about some forays deep into the opponents half. This good work was undone however when a through ball from the Canterbury midfield was not cleared by the defence and was tapped into the net by home team's right wing. Although trailing 1-0 at half time the visitors were by no means beaten and resolved to redouble their efforts in the second half.

After the restart play was much more open and the number of attempts on the Canterbury goal increased accordingly, eventually resulting in in Martin Agyei setting up Steve to place a reverse stick shot in the roof of the net. The prospect of losing their 100% record rallied the Canterbury side to press even harder, and they eventually forced a penalty corner which brought about and excellent deflection wide of the goal by Jonathon Rookes of the powerful drag flick. Jonathon did say afterwards that it was self-preservation as he did not have time to get out of the way. When the final whistle came BBHC were more than pleased to have shared the points.

 

Veterans
This week we played Wallington, one of the strongest opposition teams in the Surrey Conference. In addition, as seems to be the fashion in this conference, they fielded three non-veterans. We were able to field a full side together with an umpire (thanks Bobby Brookfield). One car did the equivalent of the previous week's Kenley Tour by driving to the ground via Biggin Hill.

The pitch we played on was similar to the one we played on the previous week - the grass was long and the ground bumpy. The team managed to raise their game and the eventual score was Wallington 5, Hamlets 1. Some people saw this as an improvement on last season's result against the same side. Anup opened up a new diplomatic front against Wallington when, during the game, he advised the Wallington umpire to clean his spectacles.

Our goal was scored by Ian Plamer who employed a cunning reverse stick flick.

The Morris was presented to Jagi for for turning out the best performance in defence and the Doris went to Frank Andrews as the driver of the car involved in the Biggin Hill episode (even though he wasn't navigating). Ian, Frank and Roy provided the transport.

Can I please reiterate what Ian said after the game. Those of you who are not available for the game on the 12th November against Burnt Ash should let Mark Betteny know as soon as possible.

 

LADIES
1st XI lost 2-0 Wapping (A)
2nd XI won 1-0 vs Gravesham (A)
3rd XI won 3-2 vs Sevenoaks (H)
(Alsop [FG], Fearn [FG], Leah Kember-Hollands [FG])

 

1st XI
BBHC 1st XI travelled to London side Wapping for first league match against them. New to our league, they would have been completely unknown territory, however we had the chance pre season to suss them out in a friendly. We lost that fixture 2-1 in what was a very good, strong performance and an unlucky result.

BBHC were all keen to put that right in the league, and build on last weeks 2-0 win over Broxbourne. However it was not meant to be for the Kent side. Wapping were an improved team from the friendly with a few different faces from the friendly, and some strong individuals. Wapping really applied the pressure and for the first 20 minutes and BBHC were on the back foot but the defence stayed strong and soaked up everything that came their way.

Wapping were rewarded towards the end of the first half when BBHC lost possession deep in the Wapping half. The home side managed to counter attack quickly, resulting with a 4 on 2 situation at the back. BBHC goalie Nev Hamlet doing her best to prevent them taking the shot in the D was rounded, leaving Debbie Henderson with the impossible task on the line.

As the second half began BBHC started to play their own game, keeping possession and threatening the Wapping defence. BBHC then suffered a blow when Sam Hall took a nasty hit on her forehead from a free hit, which Julie Sommer-Bayley had struck at top pace. A Wapping stick deflected the ball up and cracking Sam's head. Sam was rushed off to hospital, and to receive 8 stitches. BBHC were down to the bare 11.

BBHC continued to put pressure on Wapping, and were desperate to claw a goal back. It wasn't to be, and few minutes from the end Wapping got another. A frustrating game for the BBHC ladies, where we didn't win a single short corner.

BBHC look forward to rectifying things on the home leg in February. BBHC slip down to 7th place in the league.

 

2nd XI
This week BBHC visited the hard tackling Gravesham in a tough match. Despite the sides being fairly matched BBHC played much the better hockey creating numerous efforts in their D but luck was on Gravesham's side after some stunning save by their keeper kept the game at 0-0 at the end of thee first half. As the 2nd half started BBHC took a quick lead from a short corner to by Jane to see the visitors one nil up. BBHC's confidence started to build and the game ran more smoothly but this relaxed style of play allowed the home side to almost fight their way back into the game. However, luck was on BBHC's side this time as Gravesham squandered their chances. Gravesham throughout the game had several good attacks BBHC's strong defence came through . The game ended 1-0 to BBHC which left spirits extremely high.

 

3rd XI
A cold crisp Saturday, full strength side, new game, old rivals. A new look 3rd XI contained various formation changes to accommodate different players. Good marking and tight play from BBHC allowed constant pressure on the visitors. The lead came from a high quality free hit on the edge of the circle from Player of the Match Ali Prior with a soft touch from Ang Alsop to take BBHC 1-0 up. This was soon to be followed by an almost identical Ali Prior strike which was cleanly swept in by Leah Kember-Hollands.

The 2nd half started badly as a revitalised Sevenoaks who pulled the game level by converting 2 goals past a tired defence - this wasn't the plan and BBHC soon fought back for a penalty corner 3 minutes before the final whistle. A goal line scramble fell to Louise Fearn who wasn't going to let this opportunity go to miss and BANG a cheer and well deserved victory for BBHC and 3 points!!!

 

 

Saturday 29th October 2005

MEN
1st XI lost 4-1 vs Folkestone (H)
2nd XI won 4-0 vs Tunbridge Wells 3rd XI (A)
(Henderson [FG], P Price [PC], Tither [FG], Alex Webster [PC])
3rd XI lost 1-0 vs Gravesham 1st XI (H)
4th XI lost 3-1 vs Gravesham 2nd XI (A)
5th XI lost 2-0 vs Holcombe (H)
6th XI lost 5-0 vs Herne Bay H) - game conceded

 

2nd XI
After last weeks patchy performance BBHC returned to form in spectacular fashion with a commanding performance against Tunbridge Wells. BBHC started the game at a high tempo and put constant pressure on the Wells defence. Despite the many chances created on the home teams goal BBHC were unable to take the lead until Andy Tither finished from close range. BBHC continued dominance soon paid off again after a penetrating run from the midfield by Andy Franklin allowed Jimmy Henderson to finish into the almost open goal. BBHC finished off the half 3–0 up after a short corner was converted by Alex Webster just before the break.

In the second half, Wells came out a rejuvenated team. After some tactical shuffling, they started to soak up some of the BBHC pressure. Despite managing to counteract the seemingly unstoppable BBHC they were unable to put the BBHC defence under any real pressure. The visitor's victory was sealed after well worked penalty corner was finished off by Phil Price with a drag flick from the top of the D.

A solid display by the 2nd XI, who need to keep the current form for next week’s tough fixture against Marden Russets.

 

3rd XI
The game started off slowly for BBHC with some quick attacking from the opposition Gravesham. The BBHC defence stayed strong and after about 15 minutes started to get make an impression on the game with some quick counter attacks .With a few chances in the first half BBHC failed to take the lead. The second half continued in much the same vain with both sides creating some good passing and movement. Despite both sides winning several short corners neither side was able to break the deadlock. Unfortunately, in the dying minutes of the game, Gravesham won and converted a short corner. End result 1-0.

 

5th XI
BBHC put up strong resistance to a Holcombe side but were unable to prevent the visitors from gaining the upper hand with some well worked moves. Holcombe did not have it all their own way, though, with some good attacking play constantly putting the visitors under pressure and a P-flick save from Sarah Brine!?!

 

LADIES
1st XI won 2-0 vs Broxbourne (H)
(K Hall [PC], Harvey [FG])
2nd XI won 4-2 vs Sevenoaks (H)
(Augustin [PC], Bilby [FG], Phipps [FG], Whale [FG])
3rd XI lost 3-2 vs Folkestone (H)
(V Jones)

 

1st XI
BBHC Ladies' 1st XI started the game well disciplined and expecting a tough game from familiar opposition Broxbourne. The game started with a high tempo and continuous pressure from the Hertfordshire opposition. The game remained a stalemate at 0-0 going into half time after some solid resistance from the BBHC defence.

BBHC came out with a positive outlook which paid off when early in the second half when Karen Hall clinically finished from a short corner. This gave them a massive boost, leaving Broxbourne in a dishevelled state. BBHC worked extremely hard and continued with the high tempo - the entire squad keeping up the relentless effort. BBHC kept up the pressure and forced more short corners, where Sarah Harvey swept the ball home from one of the well-worked set pieces.

Overall an excellent team effort, with the home side suitably rewarded.

 

2nd XI
The Ladies' 2nd XI had a slow start to their game and allowed Sevenoaks to dominate the first 20 minutes of open play. This period enabled the visitors to take the lead after a well worked move. The goal acted as a wake-up call and BBHC responded swiftly with Sarah Whale equalising. BBHC continued to rally and their pressure resulted in a short corner which Jane Augustin duly dispatched. Just as the half time whistle was about to blow a well worked move, starting in defence, moved up the flanks to be crossed in by Mel Neale and for Chloe Phipps to calmly slot home.

BBHC continued to dominate after the break with Vicky Bilby deflecting home from a Georgina Light pass. With minutes to go Sevenoaks scored a consolation goal but this could not dampen the home side’s spirits after a fantastic performance.

 

3rd XI
After a week's well deserved break, BBHC Ladies' 3rd XI were all raring to start against the top-of-the-league Folkestone. The first half started well with some good defending led by player of the match Karen White, but a well trained Folkestone side stole the lead after a well worked set piece just before half time.

The second half saw some good attacking moves from a determined BBHC, with Coral Jones scoring to bring BB equal. Folkestone soon regained the lead scoring two goals in quick succession but BBHC kept their heads up and some good team work resulted in a penalty corner that BBHC duly converted. The home side continued with the constant pressure but were unable to break down the Folkestone defence again before the end.

 

COLTS
(Sunday 30th October)
U14 Boys lost 8-0 vs Sutton Valence (H)
U14 Girls lost 15-0 vs Tunbridge Wells A (H)

 

U14 Boys
The Under 14 boys played host to a well-drilled Sutton Valance team in the Kent league. BBHC started off well with some positive passing and were looking the stronger team on the pitch. Dave Humber and Jamie Saunders controlled the midfield with some good runs with the ball. Humber made a good pass to Gareth who ran into open space to have a shot on goal but was put aside by the keeper. The new recruit in goal Kortney Monah MacQuillan made some superb saves to keep BBHC in the game. However, the Sutton Valance pressure grew and they scored 3 thanks to some good passing. At half time, BBHC were 3-0 down.

BBHC started off well again in the second half but, 10 minutes in, Sutton Valance gained the upper hand by putting some more good passing together and scored another 5 to make it 8-0. Indeed it was the visitors superior height, ages and experience that gave them a clear advantage. However, near the end of the game BBHC earned themselves 5 consecutive short corners but could not find the back of the goal with any - again the opposition's experience held them in good stead. Despite this, BBHC played very well all things considered, and continue to show promise.

 

U14 Girls
BBHC were looking forward to their first game of the season in a new league against Tunbridge Wells A. With a very young and inexperienced team, BBHC started well, however it didn’t take long before the Tunbridge forwards took advantage with well organised short corner routines. In the second half, Tunbridge Wells continued the onslaught but BBHC didn’t give up, however could not convert.

 

 

Saturday 22nd October 2005

MEN
1st XI won 2-1 vs Ashford (A)
(Ashby [FG], Perfitt [FG])
2nd XI won 5-2 vs New Beccehamian (H) - Friendly
(Chaggar 2 [2FG], Corker [FG], Adrian Webster [FG], Alex Webster [PC])
3rd XI lost 3-1 vs Sevenoaks (A)
4th XI lost 1-0 vs UMDS (H)
5th XI lost 1-0 vs Cliftonville (A)
6th XI lost 5-0 vs Folkestone (A) - game conceded.
Veterans' XI won 6-2 vs Kenley (A)
(Davies, McLaren 2, Richmond 3)

 

1st XI
This week saw BBHC Men's 1st team travel away to last week's Kent Cup opponents Ashford. The away team started the game brightly, dictating play for much of the opening period and causing the Ashford defence numerous problems. Mid-way through the first half, BBHC took the lead following one of several surging runs by Peter Stanley. The veteran midfielder beating Ashford's left back on the outside before pulling the ball back to an unmarked Jamie Perfitt, who finished with ease.

BBHC continued to press forward and dominate the game, controlling the midfield through Joey Civico and Daniel Lucas. And it came as no surprise when BBHC doubled their lead early in the second half. Decorated senior pro, Chris Deeks, picked the ball up just inside the Ashford half and waltzed past two Ashford defenders before finding Mark Ashby in the Ashford D. His thunderbolt of a shot from a tight angle leaving the keeper with no chance.

Ashford did manage to score a consolation goal late in the game when they converted a controversial penalty flick. This seemed to spark the home team into life and a period of Ashford pressure ensued. However, despite losing Civico to a yellow card and Ashford winning a succession of short corners, the BBHC defence stood firm. Ben Bradley and Ravi Chana having particularly dominant games at the back. A well-fought result for the Men's 1st team who remain unbeaten this season.

 

2nd XI
BBHCs 2nd XI, with no league fixture this week, played host to a social New Beccehamians. BBHC were slow to get started but soaked up everything thrown their way. As the first half progressed BBHC soon found their stride and camped out for long spells of the game. However, New Beccs caught the BBHC defence out with a quick counter attack and won themselves a short corner. 1 - 0 from a well worked short corner left BBHC undeservedly behind. BBHCs offensive continued and were soon level after an almost comical shot by Adrian Webster dribbled past the keeper. Two minutes later they were almost in front after Vince Moore hit the bar when it looked easier to score. Just as the half time whistle was about to blow New Beccs sneaked ahead after a thunderbolt of a shot blasted through Jim Jackson in goal leaving him no chance to give the visitors a half time lead.

After some strong words at half time a new inspired BBHC came out onto the pitch and continued with their dominance of the play but were unable to convert the many chances. New Beccs continued to counter but rarely looked like they would extend their league. BBHC levelled the game after a broken down short corner fell to Alex Webster on the top of D who fired home with style. This opened the flood gates for BBHC as soon after they took took the league through a deceptive deflection by David Corker. As the game entered the last ten minutes young Tej Chagger ran the experienced New Beccs defence ragged and managed to poach 2 goals form consistent hassling.

BBHC 5 New Beccehamians 2. After a strong performance BBHC 2nd XI return to league duty next week with an away fixture to Tunbridge Wells.

 

Veterans
The veteran's relentless persuit of world domination continued this week with an emphatic 2 - 6 win at Kenley. Pleasingly two of our goals came from short corners, which was surprising since before the game we chose to practice short corners and it took no fewer than 17 attempts against two defenders and a goalkeeper before a successful strike was obtained.

You wait four matches for a centre forward who can score, and then two come at once. Alex McLaren is our new goal-poaching machine, with two glancing nicks into the goal. He played up front as if he had been there all his life. Peter Richmond scored another three, and Arthur Davies, who spent the entire game sensitively encouraging the rest of us, scored the other.

It was good to welcome back Bobby Brookfield who marked his return to active service with a first half performance of poise and aplomb. Indeed when he was substituted the shape of the team folded completely and the unfortunate substitute (who had a shocker - he knows this because he was told so often) was forced to endure unecessary criticism in the bar afterwards. It is the captain's opinion that if you win 2 - 6 the apportionment of blame is inappropriate, but not everyone in the team shares this view.

It was a sadness that this game marked the end of Shaun's latest stint with us. He will be greatly missed for his presence on and off the pitch, and his willingness to drive. He is a valued club man. Sadly, for all his bonhomie, he managed to hit the post when it was easier to score, and having so nearly tasted success, went on to spend a great deal of time in the opposition's goal area, in spite of playing at Left Back. No wonder our substiute had such a bad time of it (although the apportionment of blame is distastful and serves no purpose).

The Morris went to Alex McLaren for a masterful up-front performance.
The Doris went to Ken Maxton for being late getting to the club by more than a minute, and for falling over during a tackle in an amusing and gravity-defying fashion.

Thanks are due to Barry for umpiring, Alex, Shaun and Jagi for driving, and to Peter for doing the honourable thing in buying a jug of beer after his hattrick. This is a tradition that has been forlornly neglected in recent seasons, and one which we were all pleased to see reinstated.

So the season so far. Played 5. Won 4, drawn 1. Goals for 18. Goals against 8.

Next week we are away to Croydon. We are leaving (that's leaving, Ken) at 1 o'clock. Offers to drive will be gratefully received.

 

LADIES
No matches.

 

 

Saturday 15th October 2005

MEN
1st XI won 5-1 vs Mid Sussex (H)
(Ashby [FG], Civico [FG], Lucas [FG], Rudduck 2 [2FG])
2nd XI lost 1-0 vs Folkestone (A)
3rd XI lost 3-1 vs Gillingham Anchorians (H)
(A Humber [FG])
4th XI lost 3-1 vs Holcombe (A)
(Gibbard [PC])
5th XI won 4-2 vs Burnt Ash (H)
6th XI lost 5-0 vs Cliftonville (A)
Veterans XI drew 3-3 vs Blackheath (A)

 

Sunday 16th October (Kent Cup):
1st XI won 8-2 vs Ashford (H)
(Ashby 3 [3FG], K King [FG], Lucas [FG], Perfitt [PC], Rudduck 2 [2FG])

 

1st XI
BBHC entertained Mid Sussex on a sunny Erith School following last week’s win over local rivals Burnt Ash.

Starting brightly, BB put early pressure on the visitor’s defence with Peter Stanley causing havoc down the right wing. BBHC were rewarded with the 1st goal scored by Dan Lucas following a goal mouth mêlée. The Lead was doubled shortly thereafter with new boy Joey Chivico slotting coolly following a neat link up with Steve Rudduck. Rudduck was on hand just before half time to score the first of his two goals beating the Midsussex Gk with an instinctive finish.

BB had to deal with some renewed spark from the guests as GK Tom Golding had to stand strong to make some smart saves. Although the visitors pulled one goal back, a wonder strike from Mark Ashby dampened their spirits. Even a missed penalty flick from Kevin “Dwarf” King (his second in consecutive weeks!!) could not derail the BBHC juggernaut with Rudduck scoring his second goal following a good work from David Cole and Peter Stanley.

All in all, a solid team performance.

 

1st XI vs Ashford : Kent Cup (Sunday 16th October)
Following on from Saturday’s league victory, BBHC wanted to make sure they carried their current form into Sunday’s Cup game. So, with a strong squad selected, BBHC started the game in a positive fashion. Forcing errors in the Ashford defence, BBHC soon gained their first corner of the game, which was duly converted by BBHC’s current top marksman Mark Ashby. BBHC continued to pepper the Ashford defence and were soon two nil up when Steve Rudduck drove the ball into the net from close range. Two soon became three with another well worked corner, this time Jamie Perfitt finishing the move with a deceiving strike.

After this barrage of goals Ashford started to try and play their way back into the game, and soon scored with a short corner flick high into the top left corner of the net. Ashford continued to press forward and, with BBHC on the back foot for the last 5 minutes of the first half, BBHC’s defence gave away a cheap penalty flick. However, cometh the hour, cometh the man. And that man was Tom Golding, BBHC’s new number one keeper, who made a fine save diving to his left to deflect the well taken penalty high and wide. BBHC replied immediately by going up to the other end of the pitch and scoring through Mark Ashby’s flick into the top left corner.

The second half saw continued domination by BBHC’s attack. With the midfield creating more and more chances, the Ashford defence soon cracked again when BBHC scored with a well worked field goal with Steve Rudducks converting after a quick break. This was shortly followed by former captain Dan Lucas scoring with a close range shot . Ashford replied quickly though, scoring a break away goal to make the score 6-2.

Ashford continued to try and play good hockey, but could find no way to counter BBHC’s forward movement and BBHC soon found themselves 7-2 up after a reverse stick strike by player coach Kevin King. Surely this would be the end of a very entertaining game for the Club’s home crowd? But no! Ashford, who had gained a late winner against Burnt Ash in the final seconds of their league match the previous day, had the tables turned on them as BBHC scored an eighth goal with just seconds to go through hat-trick hero Mark Ashby. All in all a very good weekend for BBHC men’s 1st team.

 

2nd XI
With an under strength side, BBHC 2nd XI looked to con