Hornets edge tight game

An entertaining game saw South Berkshire Hornets score early and hold on well to win. Havant had the early running and their better passing was let down by a series of inaccurate shots. Their shots that did hit the target found Lyndall in good form with a series of sharp saves and cool clearances. With some slight readjustment Hornets worked to close down Havant's playmakers. An impressive start from new signing Roy who returned to hockey after 30 years playing rugby, proved invaluable in breaking up Havant's attacks. Gradually Hornets started to take control and some well worked passing and interplay down the right between Dave, Mary and Fiona kept Havant pinned into their own half. A great steal and run down the backline by Fiona saw the ball fall to Dave who thumped in the only goal. More opportunities were created by Roland who was frustrated by the rather close attention of the Havant centre backs. Hornets ended the first half strongly attacking down both wings with Nigel linking well on the left to put pressure on the Havant circle and realise the only short corner of the half. A well worked move on this set play saw Graham free to smash in a shot that was well saved on the line.
Second half was more of the same with both sides passing well and Havant having the greater number of opportunities to score but once again their shooting let them down at the critical time. Good tackling by Dob, selfless running and marking by Alan and Roy kept Havant in check. the right side trio of Mary, Fiona and Dave again caused Havant trouble and with Graham and Nigel setting up the passing moves Hornets looked good until reaching the circle by which point some solid Havant defending restricted Hornets shooting to a lone shot by Rob and a couple of short corners. Havant ended the half with their own series of short corners following Hornets defensive errors and a great breakaway which Lyndall smothered well at the top of the circle. Hornets were relieved to hear the final whistle and a well deserved win with a rarer clean sheet.