LX ‘A’ team v Chichester

Sunday 27^th January 2008

 This was the first get together of the squad following selection for Barcelona at Easter. It was therefore appropriate that the match had been arranged by our coach, Andy Barnes, who ensured that the opposition was both younger than LX ( with the exception of the evergreen Peter Ross), skilful and keen to win. All but two of the squad were available.
The day started with a briefing on the approach that would be taken in the build up to Barcelona. This was followed by a specially tailored training session run by a Chichester 1st team player and physio. This concentrated on improving the team’s SAQs ( speed, agility and quickness ).
The game itself was made up of 3 periods of 25 minutes which ensured pitch time for everyone. The first period started with Chichester in control and putting heavy pressure on the LX midfield and defence. However LX held out with in particular good saves from Colin Kimber and intelligent covering by Terry Howlett. Gradually LX found their rhythm with the short passing game beginning to open up the Chichester defence. LX were rewarded with a goal from a well struck short corner by Barry Mills.
The second period saw good hockey from both sides but LX were now creating more chances with the midfield providing good support for the forwards. LX’s second goal came after a well constructed attack led to a pass from Greg Hutchings giving Imtiaz an easy chance which he took with confidence. Chichester then scored after a save from Colin Kimber was picked up by a Chichester forward who scored at the second attempt.
In the third period there were tired legs on both sides and the quality dropped a bit although not the team effort and LX were rewarded with a third goal scored by Mike Harris from an unselfish pass from the captain, Stephen Stowell. In the last few minutes Chichester scored a second goal from a deflection off a left wing cross when the defenders and keeper were unsighted.
Overall it was a good start to the campaign as players were getting used to playing with each other.
After the game LX were treated to a superb lunch by Chichester and it is to be hoped that it can become a regular fixture.
Many thanks must go the Chichester club for its hospitality.

Team: Colin Kimber, Barry Mills, Peter Crayford, German Singh, Terry Howlett, Neil Major, Mike Harris. Norman Ballard, Brian Perryman, John Maylam, Greg Hutchings, Mike Surridge, Stephen Stowell, Imtiaz Mahmood-Sheikh.

Coach: Andy Barnes

Manager: Peter Sharpe

Match Report: Brian Perryman