USPHC M1 vs Havant 3

Game 1 of the new season kicked off with a grudge match against Havant 3s. Spirits were high as US trialled a new system with some new positions.

US won the toss and opted to swap ends. Havant started the game and US pressed through with intent.

During the first half the new system proved effective, and US had loads of opportunities. A spell of link up play and possession led to a dangerous attack, which resulted in the first penalty corner of the season. A quick huddle to decide the routine. Straight from the training ground Callum Stoyles took charge of the strike from the top, hit low and hard, which struck the post and fell kindly to Tom Singleton for a simple tap in. 1-0 US.

Havant responded quickly with a break on the left hand side which left US short in defence. Havant managed to beat Gumpey back post with a pass to the free man. 1-1

Soon after, another US break resulted in the second short corner for US. “If it’s not broken don’t fix it” was the suggestion from the captain, so once again Callum stepped up and hit from the top. A fortunate bounce caught the keeper off guard, and bounced over the line below the backboard. 2-1 half time.

Lots of positives in the first half, and a Havant side needing to change their tactics to overcome a threatening US team. The second half started in the same fashion as the first half ended, fast paced and physical.

The main difference in the second half was fitness. US began to tire, and Havant took advantage with additional substitutions on the bench and younger wingers, who used their pace difference to their advantage.

Despite some threatening attacking hockey from US we couldn’t convert any chances in the second half, and were beaten on the counter attack on multiple occasions.

The final score was 7-2 Havant. US gave it their all, but it wasn’t to be.

Mom - Lewis Cartmell - debut as a centre back.

Player comments:

Tim - double fitness on Thursday for anyone holding a hockey stick.
Callum - I did 12km today lads, wanna see my heat map?
Angus - did you know I’m sponsored this year?
Gus - I wonder how much longer I can blag this injury for?