LX CLUB v ASHFORD ‘ANTIQUES’

13^th November 2011

LX  0  -  4  Ashford

On an uncharacteristic lovely sunny November’s day, ideal for hockey, the two teams met for the annual encounter at the Ball Lane pitch.  This game was part of the always enjoyable double fixture arranged by Keith Hedley. 
Despite several late changes, the LX team v Ashford, under the encouragement of captain Norman Ballard, started the game with skill and determination, resulting in Parmjit (Pami) Bolina bringing the best out of Ashford’s goalkeeper.
However, the younger Ashford side started to make more frequent attackes, despite the restraint of the LX mid-field of Robin Mayes, Norman Ballard and Mike Sprange, and the rearguard of Rainer Vogt, David Read, Gurney White, plus Barry Rham and Jamie Allan (goalkeeper), the latter two from Ashford, but playing extremely well for LX, were soon under considerable pressure.
Eventually a cross from the right found the opposition’s centre forward, Paul Wade, who scored with considerable aplomb.  With the LX back four on the defensive, Danny Schawtz slotted home from close range to make the score 2-0 to Ashford.  LX Club raised their game, and had many opportunities to equal the score, with near shots, rebounds of posts, and saves by the ‘Antiques’ goalkeeper.
In the second half this LX revival continued, but goal-scoring opportunities did not materialise, and in a breakaway with Jamie Allan, LX’s loan goalkeeper isolated, Danny Schawtz scored another excellent goal.  LX’s wingers Keith Hunt and David Wilkinson stretched the ‘Antiques’ defence, but another counter-attach left Alan Bell for Ashford, scoring an individual goal, ensuring a 4-0 win for Ashford.
The Canterbury Friars game v LX Club followed, which resulted in a 1-0 win for Canterbury.  All the teams adjourned for the traditional excellent three course meal in the Clubhouse.  Norman Ballard was awarded ‘Man of the Match’, and was presented with a crafted wooden bowl made and presented by Gurney White.
Thanks were given by Austyn Leaverland, particularly to Keith Hedley for his tremendous efforts in organising this double fixture, and to Ashford HC for their hospitality, especially Tony Post and his team, all the umpires, and the supporters of both teams who attended.
LX Club Team v Ashford – Jamie Allan (Ashford), Rainer Vogt. David Read, Gurney White, Barry Rham (Ashford), Robin Mayes, Norman Ballard, Mike Sprange, Keith Hunt, Pami Bolina, David Wilkinson

Umpires: John Widgery, Bill Butcher/Ian Thomas,

Match Report:  David G Read