The final game before lockdown saw Repton host Bridgnorth.
Straight from the push back Repton played forward and attacked Bridgnorth. Bridgnorth’s first touch of the ball was actually a foot in their D which saw them having to defend the game’s first penalty corner. Si Claris drilled a flick low past the opposition keeper. 1-0.
Bridgnorth set into the trend of defending deep in their 25 and inviting Repton possession and pressure. One such occasion saw Nacho Morando play a long corner to the top of the D where Martin Jones had made a sharp lead. Jonesy picked up the ball, weaved into the D, found space and played a reverse shot on the angle through the Bridgnorth keeper high into the net. Something we’ve seen Jonesy do a thousand times.
James Shires, who is usually busy working as a junior doctor on A and E had a rare free weekend to join the match day squad. Both him, David Exley and Joe Sookias occupied the half back positions. All three were expert in balancing attack on the opposition circle with steadfast defence in the hope of not being left short on a Bridgnorth counterattack.
Three more goals were scored before half time. One for Matti Thomas, another for Jonesy and the goal of the day coming from Dom Bennett- a reverse deflection wide of the goal from a trademark Nacho Morando delivery.
Half time sweets, provided by Ben Clague, were a popular choice of squashies and wine gums. Sweet delivery though was just one of many things Clague did well throughout the game. He took up his usual role of controlling play in midfield and subsequently was also able to grab two second half goals from a combined 10 ft out from the Bridgnorth goal ‘tap in specialist’ comes to mind, despite missing the easiest of chances near the end of the game which would have sealed his first ever hat-trick. Two other goals came from Viking corners. Archie Vaughan calmly finished a rebound and Martin Jones added to his tally through a deflection.
The game ended 8-0.
It was a rarity and somewhat refreshing to see James Sookias not on the score sheet. His form for the Vikings and run of goals has been awesome so far this season. Sookias, James Johnson and Harry Stone in particular were all relentless in their work rate throughout the game- an ethos Repton promote in all areas of the team.
Big thanks to Bridgnorth who battled well which made for an enjoyable game for all.
Despite a strong performance from Repton, the mood at full time was somewhat subdued due to the upcoming lockdown. A sign of how much the team have enjoyed playing together for this first part of the season. The team and club will hopefully be back playing hockey under EH guidelines very soon.