Mens 7s vs IES M4

The weather greeting the team in Ipswich was surprisingly wintry for the first time this season. But, having enjoyed a good win last week, the team was warmed by their enthusiasm and determination to put on a good show.

And indeed they battled hard throughout the match putting together some excellent passes, solid defending and clever stick skills. Because of this, IES had only scored one goal at the half-time whistle.

Not long into the start of the second half IES struck again to bring the score to 2-0. However, heads did not go down and Ollie’s goal was a very well taken far post slot in from a well struck cross from Noah to bring the score to 2-1.

At the other end, goalkeeper Noah made some stunning saves to keep Magpies in contention. On one occasion it was a last minute scoop behind the post from a prone position and, perhaps the best of the day, was a one on one which left the IES forward with no option but to hit straight at the keeper.

The heavy defeat that followed can be summed up as unfortunate in a number of ways:

1.It was unfortunate that IES was the first opponent made up entirely of adults.

2.It was unfortunate that David was injured about 10 minutes into the game and took no further part. We were very sorry to lose him as he structures play and keeps the team well focussed and in position. Get well soon!

3.It was unfortunate that the team lost two valuable players promoted to the 6th team on a day when they were most needed by the 7ths.

However, congratulations go to all the boys who never gave up and tried their very best right to the bitter end. Our thanks to Myles and Richard who worked tirelessly throughout the match supporting and encouraging and covering every “blade of grass”.

Thank you also to Rae and David who failed to notice the green card issued to a certain Magpie player. They thought he was injured and just subbed on another player. Luckily the Umpire, who had noticed, was in a generous mood and did nothing because he didn't think the mistake would affect the outcome of the game! Thank you to all the supporters who braved a wet and wintry afternoon to give loud and clearly audible sideline approval to the team as they came off.