EAST-BOURNE AGAIN
7.9.04


A new look Harpenden first XI squad headed to Eastbourne for their first pre-season outings, with great success.

They welcomed debutants David "DJ" Jeffreys and Mark "Wako" Wakeling (who thinks of these nicknames? GENIUS. Ed) and welcomed back Todd Baines after a three year stint at University.

The opening day saw Harpenden line up against a strong Eastbourne side, league champions last season. Harps started brightly, winning a comedy short corner when their centre back decided to pick up the ball, nobody was quite sure why. In the following minutes a rapid move up the pitch with great build up play from Russell Timms and Paul Nash enabled Tom Vickerton to neatly put away Harpenden’s first goal of the season. After that Harpenden found the going a lot tougher, with Eastbourne winding up as comfortable winners. They played some very impressive hockey, letting the ball do the work and creating space in the D. Their superior fitness and organisation showed through and it was too much for Harpenden to deal with.

Sunday was a day of mixed performances. With the ever rising temperature being an issue it was decided that the day would be in the format of four 25 minute games for each team. Harpenden started well against South Saxons with a 1-0 win, Tom Vickerton putting in Todd Baines for a very well taken goal, which ended up in the top corner. The Blues’ next game was against Eastbourne. Harpenden battled well for a 0-0 draw and through Todd Baines, had a good opportunity to pinch the win. After that the Harpenden legs began to tire and Harpenden ended up losing to both these teams in the following two games.

All in all it was a very positive weekend for Harpenden, the team improved in all areas of the pitch and with another two weekends before the league starts there is surely plenty more to come.

Many thanks to go to Mike Emes for his excellent organisation, we were all having our doubts after the 2 hours of Saturday we spent on the M25!

Thanks to South Saxons and especially the boys at Eastbourne for their excellent hospitality.

Allez les bleu

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