With a cancellation due to frozen pitches on weekend 1, this was the squad's first opportunity to play together, and play on a full size pitch at that! Very few of the boys had any experience at all of playing hockey on this size of pitch and at times this was very evident, especially when fatigue crept into the boy's bodies. With little time to organise systems, shapes and practice skills, we were always likely to look a little rusty, especially when you consider that Tonbridge usually always present a tough opposition on the hockey field.

Tonbridge presented with a strong midfield 3, all very capable of turning Radley attack quickly in turn overs in possession, with Radley too often taking on players strong side in defence. The art of pre scanning and playing to width at easy and early opportunities will be much worked on in training this week. Too often players relied on beating players with their skills and hands rather than letting the ball do the work.

Tonbridge took the lead just before half time. Radley equalised halfway through the second half after missing a couple of very good opportunities. Possession remained very evenly balanced. Unfortunately a lapse in concentration, which so often happens after a goal has just been scored cost us dear, with a poor turnover in our D, followed by a weak shot finding its way through our defenders and into the goal. Magnus Evans Bevan was superbly composed throughout as was Meakin in defence. They shared the player of the match award.

Well done to the boys for their early season endeavour. It really has been a pleasure to help get them up and running. We are not a big, physical side but we do have the potential to be a fantastic passing side, once we develop more skill and tactical awareness. Thank you to the parents for their early season enthusiasm and support. Onto Rugby on Thursday, our first away game.