M1: Cannock 2 Reading 3

We played Cannock last week in arguably the toughest away fixture of the season.  We were strengthened by the return of Jonty, Tom and Si but had to make do without Chris Pryce and Nick Catlin who were busy trying to get into the GB U20 team.

Our start to the game was fantastic.  After a brief Cannock attack Matt Armitage scored from (very) close range after a good cross from JB and a deflection from Andy Todd.  Less than a minute later, a turnover in midfield fell to Andy Todd who ran into the D and sounded the backboard - unleashing a reverse stick shot passed England goalkeeper James Fair.

Following this, Cannock started to increase the pressure on our defence and this resulted in a number of penalty corners.  Nick Brothers organised his defence well and made some strong saves. However, we were also creating some good open play and penalty corner chances at the other end, as they gave us space to counter attack into.  Just before half time Cannock were rewarded for their efforts, finally beating Nick Brothers from a PC.  So we went into half time 2-1 ahead.

For most of the second half the pattern followed the first.  Cannock, chasing the game, moved forward quickly and purposefully with some slick passing in midfield – notably from England internationals Michael Johnson, Matt Taylor and Andy West whilst we continued to create chances on the break.  Our team defence stood firm until the last 5 minutes when Andy Humphreys scored a rebound at a penalty corner.

Whilst many thought this would be last event of the match, Jonty made good ground down the left and pushed the ball across the D.  Cannock defender Paul Edwards intercepted, but could only guide the ball into his own goal…and the 3 points we ours!!

It was a good performance but a great result.  Cannock had not lost at home for the best part of 18 months and the result showed the strength of character of our team as well as the talent we have across our group.

We know that this week will be a tough game too, as E.G. have strengthened their squad since last year.  If we continue to improve our performances and build on our first two league results then hopefully we can overcome E.G and take the points.