Controlled Win

The Relics had a frustrating 50 minute wait before their match at OCs; because the floodlights have to be switched off at 6pm we ended up agreeing to play 25 minute halves. The wait was lightened by the fact that we were able to watch an entertaining national league game as the OCs 1st XI put on a good performance (although lacked the quality finishing of the Relics!) it was a good warm up act for the crowd who benefited from the excellent covered stand at OCs and then enjoyed some vintage vets hockey from the Reading Relics.

The rain ensured the new OC astro carpet was at its best and Reading played very well against a spirited OC team led by Andrew Eve. Despite the shortened game we moved the ball well and created good chances and scored four excellent team goals (two set-up by our cack-handed magician Bob), first half goals were well taken tap-ins from the lean mean Green goal machine and always on the far post Cooke.

Second half goals from top gun Wright and the returning Hudson ensured we turned out comfortable winners even when OCs brought on the ever feisty Howie to try and unsuccessfully break down the strangle hold that Pelly and Rage had on midfield.

Everyone played well and we moved the ball around the pitch with control to dominate possession and the Mark the Wok Boothroyd ensured we kept a clean sheet. The result, combined with Indian Gym’s loss, puts us tied at the top of the table with Epsom Old School both with four wins out of four.

My personal highlight of the game was hearing the ever eager Green, whilst taking a spell on the bench, shouting out “Come on OCs” when they won a short corner, Tim was clearly rolling back the years and thought he was still a member of the home club (a jugable offence alleviated by the fact he drove six of the team to the game in the Green team bus).

Thanks to everyone for not only travelling and waiting patiently in the rain but more importantly for staying on for the match tea and the usual Relics’ numerous jugs despite the late hour – the attached selfie was taken just before 7pm and is testament to the social nature of the side – Lowe is out of shot as he was buying more beer!

Next week the Rustics play Southgate Magnums away at 1.30pm in the Grand Masters A league and we will need everyone to make themselves available to honour all the Vets fixtures.

Well done Relics – a great opening to the season.

Micky