Oxfordshire League Round 4&5- Match Report Boys U12’s v Bicester/Banbury

BU12 made great progress in the Oxfordshire league today winning one and drawing one.

We made Bicester suffer for 40’ and came away winners at 4-2. Barney opened the scoring sliding the ball under a clumsy keeper. We then let Bicester back into the game and they scored. However, after a strong set of runs, Christian volleyed the Ball into the roof of the net following a swift move - debut goal. Then Bicester got a lucky break and equalised despite Ned making a series of saves. After some great work from Ben, Lucas and James, Charlie took a run at the goal, passed to Christian who selflessly passed back to Charlie who tomahawked the ball past Bicester. Special team goal. We went into half time 3-2. We then spent the second 20’ minutes attacking an increasingly annoyed and rough Bicester team but managed a further goal from James who struck the ball well from the side of the D after a pass from Leo. 4-2 pride restored with points. Great effort from the team.

We then played Banbury who had a 60’ rest but we made them work hard. We were 1-0 up after 10 minutes from Barney. We then let Banbury back into the game which was a shame as they really didn’t offer too much to deal with. After half time and some stern words Charlie and Christian ran at Banbury and we were 2-1 up in 30 seconds. All was going well, Zack clearing the ball well with Ben and Lucas, despite having to deal with some odd decisions. Sadly thru a couple of errors, missed feet, Banbury scrambled in a goal and we ended up 2-2.

The boys fought to the end but could not find that decisive winner despite a number of near misses. A shame but sometimes it works out like that.

We took 4 points from 6. Great day at the hockey office. We know where we need to improve (passing and calling) but when we do this, we take other teams apart - it’s great progression for the boys.

Thanks to the parents for supporting us, thanks to Melissa Lancashire Nanette Dart for additional photos.