The Repton U18 boys played at home against Oxford Hawks in the continuation of the England Hockey Tier 1 Championship. Despite an even first 10 minutes, in which both sides had shots and each respective keeper were brought into play, Repton struck first and continued to comfortably control the match with a six goal win.
Two goals in the first half came from James Smith and Xavier Teyletche; both skillful individual passages of play, and a further four in the second half from Matt Squance, Billy Collins, Zack Brough and another for James. The highlight of which was a slick v-drag around the Oxford keeper followed by a calm finish into an open goal by Billy Collins. Oxford had some talented forwards who were fast but often isolated by Repton defence and as a result just lacking the final finishes needed to even the match.
Special mentions are to Mackie and Harry Scutt who pressed the Oxford defense expertly causing turnovers in Repton’s favour high up the pitch. Furthermore, Repton’s defence were steadfast with Will Tomalin making crucial saves off Oxford corners, whilst full backs: Charlie Tarrant and Sam Clarke showed much composure on and off the ball in low tackles and perfectly selected passes; all of this lead to the deserved clean sheet and overall Repton win. They march on in the cup taking out a strong Oxford Hawks side who were unlucky to draw Repton so early in the competition.