Men's Hockey Rep Squad - Halton

CIVIL SERVICE 2 - BRITISH POLICE 2

Service introduced five new players into the squad for this game against a strong Police side who had heavily defeated the RAF the previous day. Led for the first time by Welsh international, Jon Gordon, the side were quickly into their stride despite the freezing conditions and a slippery playing surface.

It was somewhat against the run of play when the Police took the lead following some careless defending, leaving goalkeeper, Rob Turner exposed to a strong reverse stick shot, despite having already made a double save. Galvanised by this setback Service went on the attack, creating a number of chances as the half progressed. Reward came shortly before the interval when Adam Wells followed up a rebound to score.

The second half was a close, hard fought affair, punctuated by some controversial umpiring decisions and a very unfortunate temporary suspension for Damian Paterson which reduced Service to 10 men for a period. The Police restored their lead midway through the half with a lucky goal that just trickled over the line. Prompted from midfield by debutante, Craig Duffy making penetrating runs deep into the opposition half, Service gradually increased the pressure on a resolute Police defence.

With time running out, Service forced a late, somewhat fortuitous and hotly disputed penalty corner. The initial shot was saved but veteran striker, Ali Reilly was on hand to flick the rebound over the keeper for a well deserved equaliser. There was hardly time to restart the game before the final whistle signalled a hard fought draw between two equally matched sides.

Particular highlights included a strong debut by Ryan Brennan at left back and an excellent performance by goalkeeper Turner who made a string of saves throughout to keep Service in the match. Manager, Ernie Vickery and Coach, Mike Hannon had reason to be pleased with this start to the campaign but with improved ball retention and more clinical finishing aspects still to work on.

CIVIL SERVICE P - ROYAL AIR FORCE P

The weather jinx struck this game again for the third time in five years with a frozen pitch and a light covering of snow making play impossible.

The next games will be played at Portsmouth against the Navy and the Army on 3-4 March 2010.