Match reports from Saturday 14th November

Men’s 3rd XI 2-3 Rugby & EW 3rd XI

Goals: Dan Rose, Jon Noble

Saints thirds hosted Rugby looking to turn around a disappointing start to the season. Having now played all the top contenders for the league a strong performance against Rugby was important.  All started well, having weathered the early pressure Saints went ahead through a well worked team goal,  converted by Dan Rose.  Confidence returned and the team started to play some well controlled hockey, with Ian McIllwaine and Chris Reid in the centre of the pitch dictating play.  However a soft goal just before half time let Rugby hit the break on even terms

Second half started off well with youngsters Matt Jenson and Findlay Chacksfield playing some good hockey.  However Saints failed to convert their period of dominance and Rugby edged ahead.  2-1 down Saints won a short corner and up stepped veteran defender Jon Noble to coolly slot in the equaliser.  Despite a strong performance in goal by Bash, sloppy defending eventually let Rugby get their nose ahead again.  Despite a last minute rally, and a disallowed equaliser, the first point of the season remained elusive. A far better performance from the team and unlucky not to get at least a point.  Saints head north next week with renewed confidence for another must win game.

Man of the match went to Dan Rose for a well taken goal and all round contribution – he was even spotted defending in his own D at one stage