Men's 2s vs Edgbaston 2

In what turned out to be a thrilling match, Telford and Wrekin Men's 2nd secured a resounding 9-0 victory against a recently relegated Edgbaston 2nd Team. The stakes were high for Telford 2’s, eager to prove themselves after the absolute mess up of the previous week. The atmosphere before the match had a blend of nervousness, trepidation, and excitement coursing through the team, all fully aware of their collective mission - to play with intensity and demonstrate their capabilities on the field. The return of Sahib to the team was met with warm applause and added to the pre-game buzz. With the pre game tactics and PowerPoint completed as-well as an intense workout done, we move to the start of the game.

The action began with a flourish as Matt Hadley-Moore unleashed a remarkable strike to open the scoring, setting the tone for what would be a memorable match. Luca showed his was truly up for the game when getting into a small tussle with a player who felt that the hockey ball was not the only thing he wanted hit with his stick. The second goal came quickly, a testament to Telford's teamwork, as Captain Tom Jones orchestrated a precision pass that found Owen, who calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net.

Matt Hadley-Moore continued to shine, bagging his second goal after a display of relentless off-the-ball effort. Telford's superiority was evident, and Edgbaston's struggles were compounded by their meager roster, bringing just 12 players and frequently playing with only ten due to their disciplinary issues.

The defensive lineup, comprised of Will L, Kebble, Bully, Luca, and Harrison, displayed unwavering strength, with the opposition hardly breaching Telford's 25-yard area during the first half. Despite a 3-0 lead at halftime, the captain and the team were hungry for more. They collectively agreed that the exceptional interplay and passing exhibited in the first half needed to be sustained and communication between the team would be key. 

The second half commenced with a bang, as Luke unleashed a thunderous pass that set up John Perry for a pinpoint deflection into the net a moment of sheer brilliance and certainly the Champagne moment of the game. Josh S impressed with his silky skills and determination, providing Owen with his second goal of the match. Tom Jones, not to be left out, added his name to the scoresheet with a goal that trickled over the line following a substantial deflection.

Edgbaston's players struggled to keep their emotions in check, resulting in their number 8 being shown another yellow card, followed by a green card. Bully also shown a green and had 2 minutes sat on the bench. Matt HM, serving as vice-captain, completed a remarkable hat-trick, leaving the opposition befuddled. Sammy, holding down the fort on the right had the left-back in his back pocket, continuously charging down the baseline to great effect.

Sahib left an indelible mark by netting his first goal for the second team. Capitalising on a wonderful pass from Jon C yet another hat-trick from Owen, sealing the deal for Telford and prompting another round of jubilant celebrations.

With a final scoreline of 9-0, it was abundantly clear that Telford and Wrekin Men's 2nd Hockey Team had rallied together after the challenges of the previous week. A big thank you to our two umpires who handled what could have become a heated game very well. The 2nd’s performance had not only proven their mettle but had also provided an exhilarating and memorable game for both the players and the enthusiastic supporters.

MoM - KEEBLE 

DoD - Owen 

Champagne moment - John P deflection goal