Mens 4s End of Season Report 2008

London League Division Five - 7th place

http://www.londonhockeyleague.org.uk/

The fours had their toughest season in a while, not because last year we were promoted to Division 5, but as we had a lack of players in our pool we never had the same squad each week. We also often played with less than 11 players, which isn’t fair on anyone.

I reluctantly took over the captaincy following Timbo’s unexpected departure knowing it was going to be a challenge, and it certainly was! Somehow we all got through it and despite forfeiting two games and therefore 20 goals against us, we ended up 7th out of 9. We could have done a lot better had we not “lost” both these games to the same side (Teddington 4s) who finished 5th with two more points than us.

Despite the club losing more players than it gained, the 4s welcomed the joining of several new players to the club, particularly Andy Grimmer (aka “Pony” as he often paid his match fees with £50 notes) and Dave Hawkins. Both these players put in sterling performances throughout the season. The 4s also had their fair share of injuries. Andrew MacDonald (aka Macca) played once at the start of the season and upset his groin again, Chris Wade was brutally challenged snapping his collar bone and Craig Parrett finally wore his hip out entertaining the ladies.

Special thanks must go to the Rover’s captain, Jon Maguire (aka “Mags” as he was caught pleasuring himself over a glossy) for giving me players last minute, which often left him short.

I think a valuable lesson has been learned by all this season. I sincerely hope recruitment over the summer is fruitful, otherwise there’s not much to look forward to.

Duncan Westbury

Men’s 4s Captain