Redsox Comfortable Win

An early start in the local derby away at Maidenhead saw the Redsox win comfortably in what is often a tough battle.

This Redsox squad has now had its best start in the seven years since the team was formed back in 2011/12 with five comprehensive wins in their first five matches (four of which have been away fixtures).

We had a strong team of 11 players (supplemented by Mace for the first half before heading off to Indian Gym duties in Banbury) and for periods we played some excellent “total hockey” with a fluidity that saw both Mike Pell and Steve S moving forward from defence to assist in three of our goals. Whilst we did not quite reach the excellence of last week it was still a very impressive demolition of Maidenhead.

With Bartie urging us on from the touchline in the first half we went 3-0 up (and we were within inches of three more) thanks to powerful strikes from Ben Major, Steve Brady (awarded despite of a goal line “snickometer” claim from Steve S which was not upheld) and a reverse tap in for Terry. We played some fast fluid hockey but let ourselves down with a few over optimistic through balls when easier square passes were available.

In the second half we retained even more possession and perhaps could have created even more chances if we had taken a few more risks! But two excellent finishes From Ben Major to complete an outstanding hatrick and a nice deflection from Hunty from a rasping Mike Pell shot saw us end in style. It was good to have Hunty back with us for the first time this season and to see Matt slip effortlessly into the team.

The willingness of the squad to work off the ball and to play in a variety of different positions make the Redsox and a very strong unit and a pleasure to play in. As always the beers tasted better for the win – see attached Redsox drinking selfie.

Thanks to Mike Gray for again umpiring well especially after heading straight over to Maidenhead from a late US flight; his slight delay had the skipper searching for a rule book as he thought he may have to umpire - thanks Mike!!

Next week we are home at 4pm to London Wayfarers so please let Bartie know your availability and please note that once again we will need some of the squad to support the SuperVets / GrandMasters, so we will continue to rotate SuperVets duties among the older Redsox players.

Onwards and upwards

Micky