Men's 2s - 23/24 Season Review

Men's 2nd XI – CAPTAIN – JON MORRIS

Record after 21 games: W12 D3 L6 – F 65 A 35 Points 39 Position: 4th

First of all, I would like to extend thanks to everyone who has played in the Men 2’s side and who has supported me throughout my first season as captain. I’d like to extend special thanks to Kelton who has guided me as captain and been a big help and so forever grateful. 

Also, to Ad who has also given me advice and support in my role and backed me all the way. I also want to thank Kate who has also helped during the season, and to the other captains Mallows and for all those who have umpired, who have been on hand to help any way they can. I would finally like to thank my wife Susie who has been my rock (as always!) and has been (very) understanding in helping me in this role whether it’s looking after our plethora of children or when I have been out the house longer than anticipated! I won’t lie – it’s had its major stresses but also moments of joy and I am proud to say that we have had a fantastic season both on and off the field!

Our season started off meekly against Sutton 3’s with a 2-1 loss. This was not how our season was to be defined however as we followed that with a 7-1 win at Bridgnorth. The main aim of this season was to look at developing our squad, and despite a turnover of players, we have maintained a high level of hockey. We have had notable performances, a dramatic draw against Newport from a Jason drag flick (captured on video for further effect, and Nath’s stick still in orbit round the Earth!), a last-minute winner against North Staff’s to win 2-1 (Ad’s “windmill” celebration showed he was somewhat pleased!), a 3-2 win vs Bridgnorth away and a 7-0 thunderous win against Leek whilst I was away “on business” and included a 5,000,000 yard run from Harry and a wondergoal was the result!

We have also had some setbacks, including a loss against Finchfield at home, Cannock on both occasions and Telford away. Despite the losses, these were games that were very closely contested, and everyone gave 110% in these games. They have also given everyone the belief that our team next season have nothing to fear and with continuing development, we should surely be looking at the very least promotion and 100% looking at winning the league.

Through the early weeks of my captaincy, some players moved on and others were selected for the 1’s who have gone on to do very well. Others have been selected for the 3’s who have settled well and been a big help for Lunny, whilst others stepped up from the 3’s and boy, have they stepped up! I have been immensely proud of those that have come into the team and done a fantastic job.

This includes the “youngsters” of Liam, Harry and Finlay (Known as NIF) who have really gone on to establish themselves in the Men 2’s side and really given a great account and showcasing their skills and brilliant work ethic – long may this continue! I would have included Mase who has also stepped up (but not as young!!!) but has been a mainstay in midfield since giving some top performances to boot!

Further shout outs to the defence of Kelt “Pirlo” Scott, Jason and Azza (And occasionally Liam!) who have been a wall for us literally, and always kept our heads – well mostly (Don’t smile Kelt!!)!! Shout out to the other midfielders of Nath “swing and a miss” Langley, Rich “Mr Consistent” Duckhouse and Franklin who also has played a few games for the Men 1’s showcasing his onwards development and further proof of our young developing squad and club. A shout out to our forwards of Ad who looks to have regained his title of top goal scorer of the club (renamed the Baldwin cup?), Elliot who hopefully will have a few more games next season as he’s been a great hand to us when he’s played! 

I also want to thank our goalkeeper Ryan who has been a rock as ever, producing some superb performances, in addition to being a food critic on my teas (Watery chilli Ryan!?!). Also to Minch who played 1 game and did what Mincher Mincher does – top stuff! I also want to extend a shout out to Jack Short who has stepped into some of our games this season when Ryan has been away and has been exemplary – including our away game vs Newport where we beat them 4-1, inflicting their only home defeat of the season from an inspirational team performance as well as a goal-keeping stopper so well done!

Thanks to everyone – I love Bloxwich Hockey club, the team and the supporters and volunteers. I only ever wish to help in any way I can whether that’s driving players to games, hosting fundraisers or being ridiculed! But I genuinely know a club is only what it is due to the people in it, so I am ever grateful for you all and thanks to all of you for the effort and time you all do however big or small. 

Here’s to a great dinner dance (Thanks to Hayley and Wyrley Hall for your hard work and efforts for what will be as ever a fantastic evening), a cracking summer and Men 2’s - let’s do this in 2024/25 to win the league!!