Men's 4s vs Stafford 3

Telford 4ths travelled to Cannock Hockey Club to play Stafford 3rds this week.

Chris had a good feeling about the game hoping the team could build on last week’s win. Another important game with Stafford one place above Telford in the league. This was another must win game to help Telford stay in this league. The pitch was fast, and Chris wanted Telford to use that pace. Passing needed to be fast, flat, and accurate.

Telford started well with good possession and good attacking moves. Telford scored after 7 minutes. John passed the ball to Matt in Stafford’s half. Matt dribbled into the centre of the D and scored for his 4th goal of the season.

Unfortunately, some inaccurate passing allowed Stafford back into the game. They equalised after 15 minutes from a short. They looked to have messed it up, but recovered to score from the right.

Stafford missed 3 good opportunities to score. They employed many aerials, particularly from the 16s avoiding Telford’s press. However, Telford’s defence coped well. Stafford’s chances came from Telford poor play, either giving the ball away through inaccurate passing or not moving the ball on early enough.

Telford still had the greater possession though and retook the lead in the 27th minute. Conor hit the ball across the D where it was met at the back post by Archie coming in from the left to score his 2nd goal of the season.

2-1 to Telford at half-time. Chris was pleased with the way the team were playing. They were in a good place but needed to keep focussed.

Telford took control of the 2nd half. Stafford weren’t given any opportunities. Telford’s forwards and midfield dropped deeper for Stafford’s 16s, nullifying the aerials as Telford’s defence got more support.

Telford thought they’d scored their 3rd goal when James put the ball into the net from close range. However, the umpire furthest from play overruled the other umpire’s decision to give a goal based on an earlier Stafford offence. The advantage of Telford carrying on and scoring was wiped out and Telford were awarded a short instead!

Telford did get their 3rd from a subsequent short 15 minutes into the 2nd half. Scotty passed the ball to Conor who drilled the ball home for his 2nd goal of the season.

Telford were denied a 4th when John received a hit from Tom, beat a defender and reversed the ball into the net. The hit was taken from the wrong place, about a metre from the infringement, and had to be retaken. However, the umpire had allowed play to continue until John was about to shoot!

Telford continued to be on top and the match finished 3-1.

Chris was very happy with the win and the way the team played. Probably the best performance by the whole team this season. Passing was good overall, lots of chances created, and shots taken.

Aaron was awarded MOTM.

Telford move above Stafford, and Bloxwich on goal difference, into 7th.