Mens 3s v Old Wills 4s

Old Williamsonian’s 4's ventured south on Saturday to play against a Maidstone 3's side sitting directly above them in the table, with 4 points more recorded on the board. The icy field set the stage for an intense battle in field hockey, the biting cold seemed to fuel the aggression between the two teams, well known for their confrontational style of play when going head to head and right from the onset, it was evident that this match was poised to be anything but ordinary.

Amidst the frigid weather, both sides locked horns, displaying a tenacity that mirrored their previous encounters (where an average of three cards per game was the norm) and within minutes things were very quickly beginning to heat up. Solid tackles, poor language and moments of brilliance from Maidstone...the game was unfolding with moments that encapsulated the competitive spirit expected from both teams prior to push-back, battling for a crucial 3 points.

Some slick link up play from midfield to attack lead to a few chances for all of the home teams attackers. Poor decisions in the final third and solid saves from the Old Wills keeper (who without him would have been 5-0 down before half time) meant the first half came to a close at 0-0. Umpires warned both captains and their respective teams to tone down the language, refrain from challenging their decisions and all in all just relax a little to avoid the cards.

The second half resumed, and so too did the heated exchanges. A foul on the Maidstone Captain entering the D was blown late, a green card presented to him for hastily throwing the ball away in frustration before the umpire had a chance to call the foul. Two green cards also shown to the same OW player for double chat. Maidstone’s LB Dave F clearly felt left out and was sent to the bench to join the other two players on a time out.

However, amongst the clashes, conflict and chaos, it was Logan Black who seized the moment, delivering a spectacular goal that electrified the crowd and tilted the scales in Maidstone's favour with around 15 minutes to go. A huge goal, in a huge game.

Old Wills, though facing an uphill battle, didn't relent. Their persistence nearly paid off with a gripping short corner opportunity 5 minutes before the end, only to be thwarted by an outstanding save from Al Coffey, showcasing remarkable reflexes...especially considering he had little to do for a large portion of the game.

The battle between these teams kept spectators on the edge of their feets until the final whistle. Maidstone emerged victorious, but both sides showcased the grit and determination that defines the essence of competitive field hockey. As the players trudged off the icy pitch, their breath visible in the chilly air, it was evident that this match would be etched in the records of their encounters, another chapter in their fiercely contested rivalry. A couple of players even refused to shake hands post game.

Maidstone now sit 5th, 3 points below Burnt Ash who they are due to play after the Christmas break. Another big game coming up.

MOTM – Al C & Logan B
Cracking Debuts – Blake W & Greg L