Where did all the M6 goals go?

For the captain, this week was an important one. Having been away for the previous two fixtures, and with the local derby postponed due to a frozen pitch, this was the last scheduled game for the first half of the season, and a chance to put a few of thfocus areas from the last few weeks training to the test.

With a youthful side, and two brand new faces to the club, the main aim was to settle in, and to not concede early on. Having conceded three the first fifteen minutes for the last five games, this was seen as critical in establishing a foothold on the game and being able to deliver. The defensive tranches were led by Theo in goal, given the opportunity to be promoted from the 7's, and clearly demonstrating his tanacity and skill in goal - frequently making cat like saves, including a period of four rebounds in quick succession. A performance that rightfully gave him Man of the match title. However, this was closely fought with Matty H, who added the third dimension into the field of play, making a number of useful arial clearances and capable of turning defensive encounters into clear atracking chances.

Play started well, with the first half goalless - strike one om the chalkboard complete, and a first for the season. Now to build upon this and make the advantage of second half performances. - not so complete. The second half continued in the same vein as the first, with twenty minutes of tough and contested play. However, an unfortunate pass to an unmarked Amersham player took play off guard, and the one goal saw Hawks heads drop. In the following ten minutes, the Hawks defence was subjected to a constant attrition, and saw two further goals as the side stretched to return the status quo. Final result was 0-3 to Hawks. Thanks to Clive for the excellent photos, and to Drew and Thom for umpiring. Next up is the local derby, away at Brookes for anyone wishing to support, before the long christmas break, returning on the 18th January with Staines away.