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Derby Delight: Havering's Development Side Sees Off Upminster
HHC’s Development side kicked off the season with none other than a local derby against rivals, Upminster hockey club. Welcoming new players Jacob G, Adam S, Luca B and Jack H to the side, and looking to build on the success of the past two seasons.
The game started with many battles within the midfield, with most of the players dusting off the summer cobwebs. UHC committed to a strong press and after 12 minutes were fortunate enough to secure an early goal, after keeper Tommy made an excellent first save, but saw a deflection flipped over his body into the back of the net.
Havering took the moment to settle. The defence of James W, Luke C and Rob C worked diligently to recycle the ball round, and the midfield of Joslin, Mitch and Gabe making probing runs. Havering took the game by its horns, seeing progress runs from Adam on the left and Jacob on the right, releasing George and TG in attack.
In the 28th minute, Havering saw their efforts rewarded. Some excellent play across the defence and down the left to Joslin, who pinged the ball across to George. George made a commanding run forward into the D, before sweeping the ball into the bottom left corner, with the cheers of the spectators echoing throughout Emerson Park’s school grounds!
The second half saw the loss of Joslin as he departed to umpire another match. TG moved into central midfield alongside Gabe and Mitch.
Havering commanded the second half, with very few Upminster attacks reaching our D. Some excellent runs and link up between Adam and Jack on the left, playing 1-2 balls around the Upminster defence, whilst Jacob and Luca drove into the D feeding the ball across. The chances were coming thick and fast, with the side testing the keepers pads and an almost tantalising deflection by little G!
It was in the 43rd minute that Havering took the lead with a strike from TG landing to the left of the Upminster keeper. Upminster’s heads then dropped and Havering maintained a strong press and pressure and were unlucky to not secure any further goals.
The game finished Upminster 1 - Havering 2, putting the side towards the top of the table. A fantastic result from all involved, and a reminder to the dads out there, there is still time for you!
Our next fixture as a side is Maldon away - 3:45 PB on Saturday 26th September! ??