Sunday the 21st March 2010 v Bristol and West
After so many long weeks since the last ABs game in the autumn - and with the game against Warlocks in January affected by the bad weather, it was a real pleasure to travel to Bristol for this new fixture.
On arrival, there were already a good proportion of the team already there - so greetings all round to Tony Perryman, Captain for the day, John Peirce, Richard Turner, Paramjit Hayre, Sat Nijjar, Tim Smaldon, Russell Gates, Colin Newman and Clive Kendall. It was also good to see Peter "Turbo" Day who had last been seen at Reading, and was due to Umpire, together with supporters - Margaret Perryman, Angela Castleton, Julia and Mike Greenhough, and Audrey and Alan Purnell, and Sonny Hayre.
The ABs were supported by Reg Sherratt in goal and Paul Sherratt (both of the Worcester Club) and his wife Karen, and Colin Pinks of the L X Club.
The game itself was one of two halves. In the first half the ABs were dominant - strong in defence, active (very active) in midfield, and with finishing which produced results. The Reading pairing of Tim and Russell, although on opposite sides of the midfield, with Russell on the left flank, saw the ball brought forward into the attack both regularly and to good effect. When within the 23 metre zone, and combining with Richard this brought two goals - firstly an accurate pass from Russell across the goal mouth direct to Richard in space, for a tap in, and the second a pass to the line which was sent on for Richard to compete and win possession from a number of defenders, and despite their efforts, work it into the goal. Two goals to the good, and despite the play being end to end, no goal for the opposition. Then, Russell capped it all when having worked the ball from midfield right into the goal area, he shot a rising ball himself up to chest height, which although covered by the goalkeeper and right back, was deflected by Dudley who happened to be in the way - fortunately wide of the two defenders and into the net - rather than outside the goal itself - much to his surprise.
So, despite further pressure on the part of both sets of forwards, the half time whistle arrived with no further score. As the first game for such a long time, a satisfactory position to be in 3 - 0. In his Team talk the Captain on the day called for three more in the second half.
The opposition, however, obviously had other thoughts, as during the interval they changed several players' positions and their approach, and were quite soon to claw back two of the deficit from good moves around the pitch, which left our defence with no chance of defending the final shot each time. Both their goals by the same player, namely Mike Wingent.
So, 3 - 2, but with some time still to go, and the opposition very active in carrying the ball from defence into attack, for those who were by then no longer on the pitch, but reduced to a role of spectator, the suspense level increased substantially, as each Bristol and West attack was repulsed at the last minute when another goal seemed inevitable. Only Mike Greenhough on the side line and in charge of the substitutions remained cool under the pressure. At last the final whistle came, and ABs had the victory, with the score still at 3 - 2. Bristol and West could, with some justification, claim a moral victory in the second half, as it had finished 2 - 0 to them.
We were then directed to a the White Horse Pub close by at Hambrook, and on the way back to the M4, with a very pleasant atmosphere and traditional interior, and where a very enjoyable sit down meal had been arranged for us.
This was followed by the usual address by Tony, during which several of the ABs were mentioned, particularly Richard's two goals, but the ABs "Man of the Match" was awarded to Russell for his midfield control and distribution. Then, after a pleasant time talking to the Bristol and West players, it was time to say our "good-byes".
A nice pitch and convenient location, a very enjoyable game, and a very comfortable Pub to retire to after the game. Several players on both sides agreed it was a fixture to look forward to again next year. Very many thanks to Tony Perryman for arranging it with Bristol and West, and to David Bain their Captain and his Team.

Sunday 11th April 2010 v Woking

A DRAW APPARENTLY, BUT MORALLY 11 - 1

Skipper arrives late after sitting on M25 most of the morning, but the rest of the ABs were all ready for action. The balance of the side looked good with the midfield trio of Russell Gates, Paramjit Hayre and Colin Newman featuring strongly from the word go and they were ably supported by John Butler (ABs version of Claude Makelele) !! As we pushed forward on the right, so we gained space on the left. Slowly but surely ABs turned the screw and chances were created and penalty corners won. From one of these corners, a switched move to Jon Beale saw his shot just pulled wide. A further chance also fell to Jon Beale when his first reverse stick attempt failed but his second attempt was well saved. At least he got an average of 5.7 from the Judges for his pirouette.
The ABs defence stood firm but to be honest, Woking didn't offer too much to begin with and it was midway through the half before they breached the ABs circle. On that occasion the back line of Sukhdev Dhesi, Sat Nijjar and Tony Perryman calmly cleared the danger. ABs won more penalty corners but none were converted. Half chances were created but none taken. In the end it took a calm piece of skill by Colin Newman, who skipped round a Woking defender, then the keeper to put the ABs ahead. For the rest of the half the ABs just kept upping the tempo, but still all chances were spurned. And then the worst happened. Even though Woking were being put under pressure, they managed to breach the ABs defence and win a penalty corner. A switch move and a shot on goal was then deflected home by John Peirce and through the skipper's legs.
At half-time the score was remarkably level, but the statistics (like in the Premier League) showed 73% possession and 75% territory. Switches to the midfield saw a slight disruption and imbalance but from the beginning of the half ABs lifted their game even more and still created chances but the Woking keeper was in sparkling form. Late in the game Russell and Dudley tried to re-enact their joint goal against Bristol & West but just failed. The game continued in the same vein as ABs pushed further forward and took risks, but we still failed to regain the lead. Several more penalty corners but skipper and Balbir Singh were thwarted by the Woking keeper.
In the end ABs had to reluctantly accept a draw, but the side deserved better. Afterwards there were 2 Man of the Match Awards; for the first half Colin Newman and the second half Tony Perryman.

John Chong, Phil Hall, Sat Nijjar, Tony Perryman, Sukhdev Dhesi, Peter Band, John Butler, Russell Gates, Paramjit Hayre,
Colin Newman, Jon Beale, Balbir Singh, Dudley Walker.

Umpire -John Polley

Saturday 22nd May 2010 v Dereham Veterans

GOALS FOR SEVEN, MADE IN HEAVEN

For the first 10 minutes the ABs looked the part and with the retiring skipper's team talk ringing in their ears, they were well and truly on the ball, with newcomer Paul Sharratt at left half and Gordon Boulter back between the sticks. And then it all went horribly wrong at the back. Firstly the skipper misread the break, got blocked off by the centre forward and this gave Gordon no chance. It just seemed like seconds later as the skipper again was involved and this time a cruel deflection left Gordon in no man's land and it was a tap-in to make it 2-0. What a way to finish for skipper's last game. It was not much longer after this that Gordon made way for Dave Shakespeare to take over - or perhaps the real reason was "I'm not playing behind him for another 60 minutes!" Credit now had to go to the team as they knuckled down and soon reduced the deficit. Lots of good hockey was played with John Henderson guesting in midfield, linking with Russell Gates and guest Tom Cowper-Johnson on the right side, and all looking dangerous whenever in possession. A slick move down the right saw Russ and Tom keep possession and as they approached the circle a clever weighted pass from Russ found John Peirce in space to calmly tap home. All to play for now as ABs took control and the ball was moved slickly and precisely throughout the team. ABs drew level though with a piece of individual skill as Paul Sharratt received the ball in space in his own half and attacked the Dereham defence at speed. It was like the Red Sea parting as colleagues helped draw defenders and Paul took advantage skipping past the final 2 defenders before crashing a shot just inside the near post. 2-2 and now all the momentum was with the ABs. More and more pressure was put on the Dereham defence and excellent work down the ABs right led to them taking the lead. Good work from Tom Cowper-Johnson led to the ball reaching John Henderson. He attacked the circle shot at goal and it was accurate, but didn't go in. For some reason one of the ABs decided to deflect the ball off the line but "poacher" Peirce was there to rectify the situation to push the ball home.
Can someone explain what happened because I am confused !!
Soon after the ABs increased their lead, when from a penalty corner a calm switch left saw Paul Sharratt guide the ball into the bottom left corner. At half-time the ABs were in complete control and the skipper just asked for 35 minutes more of their time and effort.
From the start of the half the ABs resumed where they left off and it wasn't long before they made it five. The surprise was that the goalscorer wasn't Paul Sharratt, who felt there was a "hat-trick in him". This time there was a new scorer, as Jon Beale injected a penalty corner, then patiently waited for the return pass before calmly steering the ball home. Dereham were not giving up and soon reduced the deficit, just to put the ABs back on their toes, but the ABs were not to be denied and they almost immediately score their 6th. Another break through the middle by John Henderson, saw him break into the circle and just before the goal line pull the ball back for "poacher" Pierce to net his hat-trick. Not to be outdone Jon Beale found space in the circle and a cleverly weighted pass from Tom from the right saw him drill the ball home "dambuster-style" to finish the ABs scoring for the day. Dereham still found time for one last effort and score their fourth and soon after won a penalty in the dying seconds of the game. Some players weren't convinced and Les from Dereham was one of them as he calmly missed - on purpose. A great sporting and fitting end to a thoroughly sporting occasion, which unfortunately was only shared by a few. The retiring skipper had to admit that the ABs had done him proud as this was one of their better performances of the whole year. Was it a blur, was it a dream - ABs 7, not against but for!! Lots of good triangular passing, support from midfield and the back three of Kendall, Perryman and Butler totally in control. Afterwards there were 2 Man of the Match Awards; for the first half Paul Sharratt and the second half Clive Kendall.
Gordon Boulter & Dave Shakespeare (GKs), Phil Hall, John Butler, Tony Perryman, Clive Kendall, Russell Gates, Paul Sharratt, Tom Darlington, John Henderson (Guest), Tom Cowper-Johnson (Guest), Jon Beale, John Peirce, Dudley Walker, Umpire - Chris Kitto

Sunday 23nd May 2010 v Norfolk President's XI

SAME SKIPPER AFTER ALL - BEALE'S RECORD GOES

For ABs this was back to the norm and in a strange game, probably the right result, but in the first half the ABs had several clear cur chances, but missed them all. Our first chance was soon after the start, when John Peirce crossed but Jon Beale failed to make contact, trying to guide the ball home, and the chance was lost. Soon after further clever play by Paul Sharrratt saw his cross deflected wide by John Peirce. Norfolk Presidents X1 took all this in their stride, and with John Henderson now playing against, having learnt all the ABs clever plays and nuances after yesterdays team talk, it was up to the defence to stand strong and resolute. Unfortunately today was not to be their day and Norfolk took the lead with a well drilled penalty corner. Soon after they increased their lead with a slick move, after a poor clearance from the skipper (still the same as yesterday), followed by a neat one two and a calm finish.
ABs did not give up and soon after created two more chances but again neither were taken. Unfortunately these misses proved costly as just before half-time Norfolk increased their lead to leave ABs with an uphill task.
At half-time ABs re-grouped and came out fighting, with Paul Sharratt and Tom Cowper-Johnson now the midfield dynamos in a midfield four and Russ and John Peirce either side. This assisted the defence immediately giving them much needed cover as Norfolk kept up the pressure. After 10 minutes the skipper dwelt on the ball just outside the 22, not practising what he preaches, and Norfolk duly punished to make it 4 nil. And then it was 5 nil, after skipper partially stopped a goal bound shot but the Norfolk attacker bundled in the rebound.
All credit to the ABs as they kept plugging away and from a penalty corner switch move Russ passed to Jon Beale, who converted. Could this be the great escape ? No. ABs did have a chance to further reduce the deficit after a penalty corner strike and rebound, but a defender's foot stopped the skipper from opening his Account after 7 whole years. A diving save from the Norfolk keeper denied Paul Sharratt's low strike. The skipper's day didn't get any better when with 4 minutes left he head butted an opponent's stick forcing him to leave the pitch after Les from Norfolk suggested "ice". ABs seemed to then rise to the occasion and stop Norfolk from increasing their lead.
A great attempt from the ABs but overall too many missed chances didn't help, along with an over imbibing the previous night of good food, good wine and good company. ABs though showed great tenacity, courage and commitment, but perhaps the "ups and downs" at dinner had taken its toll
Afterwards there was just the one Man of the Match and on this occasion it was back to the tried and trusted John Butler.
Dave Shakespeare (GK), Phil Hall, John Butler, Tony Perryman,
Clive Kendall, Russell Gates, Paul Sharratt, Tom Darlington,
Mike Greenhough, Tom Cowper-Johnson (Guest), Jon Beale,
John Peirce, Dudley Walker, Umpire - Chris Kitto

Sunday 20th June 2010 v Old Wulfrunians

AB's Granddads get revenge for "Red" as they "eight" Old Wulfs

This was yet again a splendid performance from the ABs and yes it is correct 8-3. With just the one substitute at the beginning and Bob Jameson feeling middle age approaching and concerned as to playing a full game, it was a major plus as Tim Smaldon gave ABs a quick 2 goal cushion. The first was a clever move down the right followed by a cross from Richard Turner and a tap-in for Tim. The second was thanks to a sweeping move all the way from the back, then left to right before the ball was pulled back by Balbir Singh, after dummying the opposition defence. It was clear that the midfield of Paul Sharratt, Paramjit Hayre and newcomer Keith Mulcock had gained immediate control and with Bob Jameson blocking out the right winger from Old Wulfs, this eased the ABs defence. But the game was far from over as Old Wulfs tried to counter attack, but this then only gave ABs more room and when Tim eased around the back of their defence on the left, a pull back to Paul Sharratt saw him calmly net the third goal. Soon after Balbir Singh made it four as he pounced in the circle, giving their keeper no chance. The game was now apparently under control, but nobody told Old Wulfs and almost straight away they reduced the deficit. Soon after they scored again as ABs relaxed and found themselves outnumbered. No blame to keeper Rod Harling for either goal, who had earlier made a couple of saves look very easy.
At half-time skipper was relatively pleased but also disappointed at the same time. Pleased for the quality of the teamwork and clinical finishing but disappointed that ABs had been guilty of individual play when passes to team mates were better options.
It was vital that ABs got back into the right vein from the restart, and so it happened. The late arrival of Clive "sat-nav" Kendall saw further added quality and this showed itself as ABs increased the lead. A slick move down the left saw several interchanging of passes before Richard Turner netted. This time the ABs kept up the pressure and further increased the lead when Balbir Singh managed to avoid the final defender to cleverly beat the keeper. All credit to the Old Wulfs as their keeper made some excellent saves, one a magnificent tip over the bar. These saves seemed to inspire his side and they reduced the lead as their centre forward spun and fired into the far left corner.

Rod Harling(GK), Phil Hall, Tony Perryman, Bob Jameson, German Singh, Clive Kendall, Paramjit Hayre, Paul Sharratt, Keith Mulcock,
Mike Heywood, Richard Turner, Balbir Singh, Tim Smaldon Umpire - Chris Kitto

Sunday 4th July 2010 v Reading Retros

Reading didn't read the Script

Two weeks later and the ABs are on the receiving end of a similar score line of 8-3 but to be honest, didn't deserve to lose by such a heavy score.
ABs settled fairly quickly, considering only 2 players from the last fixture, with Peter George-Jones and Colin Newman either side of Mukesh Phakey as a brand new midfield trio. ABs attacked well but Reading counter attacked a little better. From one of their attacks Reading took the lead from a crisp shot just inside the circle.
ABs were undaunted and pushed forward and soon equalised. From a long corner, the ball was transferred to Mukesh. He calmly passed the ball forward to Jon Beale, who slammed the ball into the far corner of the net. Back on terms and pushing forward but the ABs were also being put under pressure from strong Reading attacks and a cross into the circle was deflected home by Tim Smaldon. Soon after the ABs were opened up again when Reading's right winger also deflected a pass into the net. Just before the break Reading increased their lead with a similar deflected goal.
At half-time, 4-1 down, ABs were a little despondent but skipper tried to lift their spirits by concentrating on the good parts of the first half in order to fire up the troops.
Unfortunately Reading had their own agenda and they picked up from where they left of plus a little more and it was the ABs that were under pressure. It didn't take too long for Reading to increase their lead as the ABs defence ended up outnumbered. All credit to the ABs as they refused to give in and after a through ball from the skipper, Mukesh duly skipped past the last defender and clinically smashed the ball home. ABs still upped the tempo even more. They tried but an air shot from Jon Beale from a great cross, clearly and cleverly leaving it for Tony Handley, would have been more fruitful if it had been deliberate. Teamwork, such a fine line of quality.
Unfortunately it was at this point that ABs began to tire and the passes went slightly astray. Reading duly found the space and time to win a penalty corner which was smashed home. Could the ABs respond again. Yes they could and back they came and won their own penalty corner. A slip right to Colin Newman and he calmly flicked the ball home. Now after the game there was a debate as to who had the final touch and Mike Heywood staked a claim as he said he deflected it, but Colin still keeps the goal.
Further forays as ABs pushed forward but this only left gaps at the back and Reading duly capitalised. ABs stalwarts Russell Gates and Tim Smaldon, both playing for Reading, were pulling the strings and Reading increased their lead yet again.
All credit to the ABs and from the skipper, thanks for all your effort and commitment. Sometimes you meet a better side on the the day and today we came second.
As for Man of the Match it was a close call between Peter George-Jones and Colin Newman, but Peter takes my vote for the "tangling".

David Shakespeare, Phil Hall, Sukhdev Dhesi, Paul Bloomfield,
John Butler, Peter George-Jones, Mukesh Phakey, Colin Newman, Mike Heywood, John Peirce, Jon Beale, Tony Handley, Dudley Walker
Umpire - Chris Kitto

Sunday 18th July 2010

Chippenham 1 Ancient Britons 3

The AB's descended on Chippenham from many directions, with quite a few experiencing some worrying rain en-route. However, the weather turned out fine, and after the usual pre-match port which is part of Chippenham's pre-match welcoming ritual, both teams got down to the serious business.

Tony Perryman was captaining, and wanted his outer forwards to play nearer the centre than the usual 3 man forward layout, and this caused some confusion as the wing midfielders were also not on the wings! Some further work is needed to get this layout up & fully running. The AB's seemed to control the first 10 minutes or so, playing most of the match up in Chippenham's half, but it was apparent that the team was somewhat split apart with a defensive contingent and an attacking contingent with a large space in the middle, which finally allowed Chippenham to start controlling the mid field attacking. This period provided the moment of the first half, when Umpire Chris Kitto nonchalantly "got his leg over", lifting his left leg high in the air to avoid a driven ball! The AB's then went down 1-0 to an unfortunate goal when the opposition right winger centred from the bye line, just inside the 'D', and Clive, reaching forward on his reverse stick just deflected the ball goal wards and it crept in at the near post.

Paul Sharratt was playing a deep centre forward role, and as the AB's tried to redress the balance, a number of long passes found him lurking free behind the opposition defence. Half time and still 1-0 down.

Team talk at half time cleared up some of the positional problems, and the team settled down to playing some stylish short passing hockey which gave us control of the game, resulting in new signing Keith Mulcock driving the ball crisply in the net for 1-1. AB's tail was now up, and a further attack soon saw Mukesh in the 'D' being chopped down by 3 players, and a penalty flick was awarded - "Not a hard decision" said umpire Kitto. Colin Newman stepped forward to despatch the flick, but the Captain called "Colin, I know what you can do, let Clive take it", so Clive came forward and duly put the ball in low on the left, and let out a great howl of joy. AB's 2-1 up and looking good - could it last? One more good attack put the match more or less beyond doubt, with Keith Mulcock setting up Tim Smaldon for a shot which looped up off the goalkeeper's pad and dropped sweetly for John Peirce, as ever, waiting close to the post for a tap in, 3-1 up. However, our very active midfield was beginning to tire a bit as the younger Chippenham side tried to redress the balance. A fraught last 10 minutes followed, with much last ditch defending by the AB's, none more so than when Clive barged passed the skipper to fish out what looked like a certain goal, for which he was rewarded with Man of the Match. We clung on for the 3-1 win.

Chippenham were as good as ever after the match, and a very enjoyable Roast Beef & trimmings meal followed, and on this occasion Julia was awarded "Supporter of the Match" by the Chippenham skipper, for yelling loudly at their umpire at one point "Should have gone to Specsavers!"

A very enjoyable day out.

Dave Shakespeare & Richard Boutcher (GKs), Tony Perryman, Clive Kendall, Bob Jameson, John Butler, Keith Mulcock, Russell Gates, Sukhdev Dhesi, Paramjit Hayre, Mukesh Phakey, Colin Newman,
John Peirce, Tim Smaldon, Jan Ahmed, Mike Heywood, Dudley Walker.
Umpire - Chris Kitto

Sunday 8th August v LX Reds and England Over 65s

ABs LXed in the August sun

On a very warm and sunny afternoon at Oxford Hawks, the ABs took on the England GGM (Over 65s) and LX Red (Over 60s) squads who were preparing for the Grand Masters World Cup in Cape Town in September. ABs were also using these games in preparation for the tour to Hong Kong and Australia in November.

The first game, against LX Reds, started quietly with both sides giving games to players new to their squads. Tim Smaldon and Keith Mulcock were prominent in a couple of promising AB attacks but it was LX who settled the quickest and they took the lead after 10 minutes. A quick break from defence enabled them to get behind the AB defenders and into the circle. The initial shot was well saved by Richard Boutcher, the AB's keeper, but he was unable to prevent the LX centre forward, following up, from putting the ball into an empty net. LX increased their lead 10 minutes later when they found one of their forwards unmarked at the top of the circle and he shot accurately past Richard Boutcher. ABs had a couple of opportunities to get on the score sheet but a penalty corner strike and a first time shot from captain, Tony Perryman, were both well saved and a third goal for LX Reds followed before half time, their centre forward dribbling into the circle and passing to an unmarked player to score.
LX continued to dominate in the second half but were unable to increase their lead until, midway through the half, a pass into the top of the circle was deflected to their centre forward who took the opportunity to score his second goal. Tim Smaldon had a chance to open ABs account following a penalty corner but his miscued shot went harmlessly past the post. LX added a fifth goal shortly before the end of the game when again an unopposed forward was able to score from the top of the circle.
A couple of minutes before the end of the game, ABs scored a consolation goal when Keith Mulcock's centre from the right was picked up by Paul Sharratt who placed his shot just inside the right hand post.
In spite of the 5 - 1 score line, this was a good work out for the ABs who were able to look at several permutations of the tour squad. The midfield worked tirelessly against strong opposition, the forwards mounted several concerted attacks and, on more than one occasion, the LX keeper was called upon to make crucial saves. Richard Boutcher had little chance with the five goals we conceded and brought off several fine saves.

The England GGM squad had held a practice session during the morning and they looked like a well prepared team in the game against the ABs. They were confident on the ball and their passing and movement off the ball was soon opening up gaps in the AB's defence. With ABs still recovering from the exertions of the previous game, the GGM midfield was dominating play and ABs were only able to threaten in one or two breakaway attacks. Richard Boutcher made a couple of crucial saves but after 18 minutes the GGMs opened the scoring when an accurate cross field pass from the left led to their right midfield player taking the ball into the circle and striking a firm shot past Richard. The GGMs increased their lead before half time from a well worked penalty corner move.
Shortly after half time, GGMs added a third goal after some good approach work and, with the ABs beginning to feel the effects of consecutive games in the afternoon heat, it was no surprise when they scored again to make it 4 - 0. To their credit, the ABs continued to try to find ways past a solid GGM defence and they were rewarded with 5 minutes left in the game when good work from Tim Mobbs and Tony Perryman down the right created the opportunity for Tim Smaldon to score. There was still time for the GGMs to add a fifth goal and a rather weary group of ABs were quite happy to hear the final whistle.
As in the earlier game, a 5 - 1 defeat was a somewhat unfair reflection of ABs performance. Given that this was the first occasion that members of the tour party had played together as a team, captain, Tony Perryman, and team manager, Mike Greenhough, were reasonably happy with the way the squad was shaping up. With German Singh, Balbir Singh and John Peirce to add to those who had played in these games, the prospects for some good results in Hong Kong and Australia were encouraging.

Any despondency at losing both games was soon dispelled after an excellent meal laid on by Oxford Hawks and a beer or two in the evening sunshine.

Those who played at Oxford were:
Richard Boutcher, Clive Kendall, John Butler, Tim Mobbs, Bob Jameson, Tony Perryman, Paul Sharratt, Russell Gates, Colin Newman, Bob Grenside, Peter Terleski, Keith Mulcock, Tim Smaldon, Jon Beale and Dudley Walker.
Team Manager: Mike Greenhough
Umpire: Chris Kitto
Supporters were:
Diane Boutcher, Chris Kendall (Clive's son), Sheila Butler, Avril Mobbs, Sandra Jameson, Margaret Perryman, Karen Daly, Angela Castleton, Margaret Terleski, Lorraine Wyatt, Jane Kitto and Tony Hall (who was over from Australia and had travelled down from the North West where he was taking part in a croquet tournament).

Sunday 12th September 2010

Ancient Britons 4 Sheriff of Lichfield's X1 2

The ABs descended on Lichfield, thanks to the organisation of John Haggett. With all this Gordon Boulter was still called up at the last minute to assist Chris Kitto. Apparently their Umpire was given a different time!!

The game started well for the ABs but it was also obvious that they were up against a quality side. Lichfield controlled the initial period and the ABs were put to the Sheriff's sword. But after 10 minutes Lichfield lost their right winger to injury and the ABs duly capitalised. With Keith Mulcock and Paul Sharratt utilising space on either side of midfield, ABs pressed forward and slowly took control. Midway through the half ABs took the lead from a penalty corner. A slip back to the injector saw Jan Ahmed fire home with Mike Heywood adding the final touch. (Now ask Jan Ahmed and the ball was already over the line; ask Mike Heywood and the ball was going wide). And we want Umpires to make correct decisions !!

This also seemed to spur ABs on even more and they duly had further chances to score with both Jan Ahmed and Balbir Singh being unlucky with the final pass. A couple of penalty corners also led to chances with Paul Sharratt bringing a good save from the keeper and Balbir Singh firing just wide.

At half time ABs could feel reasonably pleased with the score line but the skipper was not totally satisfied as he realised that Lichfield were still dangerous. It was now vital that passing became slicker and quicker and more accurate and preferably in any direction. The team duly responded and within a few minutes the ABs had increased their lead. Good work down the right from Keith Mulcock found Jan Ahmed in space in the circle. He calmly nutmegged the defender and crashed the ball home. ABs should have now taken control but positional changes seemed to upset the balance allowing Lichfield the chance to pressure the ABs defence. Fortunately John Butler, Tony Perryman and German Singh were up to the task and when they were breached John Chong was outstanding in goal. ABs managed to weather the storm and slowly regained the initiative. With Keith Mulcock creating more and more space down the right, ABs started to put the triangular moves together with Jan Ahmed and Balbir Singh. This turned to fruition as the ball was cleverly transferred between them and the final shot at goal was subtly deflected home by Mike Heywood. Not long afterwards Team Manager replaced Mike Heywood to save him the cost of a "Hat-Trick Jug". ABs soon scored their fourth from another penalty corner. This time the switch went right and Balbir Singh shot but the keeper saved, but Balbir Singh reacted quickly (yes I said quickly) and collected the rebound. Ignoring the skipper's pleas to pass left, pass left to Jan Ahmed, Balbir Singh calmly flicked the ball into the roof of the net. ABs now seemed to sit back as Lichfield fought back and reduced the deficit, albeit questionably.

Having won a penalty corner the first shot at goal was a tad too high but skipper Phil Hall managed to save it, then turned and cleared the ball of the line. All seemed well but the ball never quite left the circle and Paul Campbell then smashed the ball home despite a great effort from John Chong who could only parry the ball into the top corner. Not long after Lichfield reduced the deficit even further, when another clever turn in the circle saw the same player fire into the bottom corner.

ABs still could have increased their lead as they pressed forward with Paul Sharratt drawing another fine save from the keeper and then Balbir and Jan also going close.

In the end a great result and credit to all ABs for this victory. This could have been even easier with a little more patience and guile. It is also time for players to have belief in themselves and their own ability; and to realise there are two sides to a hockey pitch.

Afterwards we adjourned to usual hostelry "Chez Haggetts". What a wonderful spread, the usual high standard. A massive THANK YOU to Val & John and also to Chris Moorhouse.

A thoroughly enjoyable day out.

John Chong, Phil Hall , John Butler, Tony Perryman, German Singh
Paul Sharratt, Keith Mulcock, Paramjit Hayre, Balbir Singh, Jan Ahmed, Sat Nijjar, Mike Heywood, Dudley Walker.
Umpire - Chris Kitto & Gordon Boulter

Editors Footnote - Apologies that skipper Phil Hall was mentioned. Unfortunately we had no control and have had to allow this mention in this report, due to Legal representation. But it has been made clear that it will not be tolerated in future and will never happen again.

Sunday 3rd October 2010 v Bridgnorth

SO WET, EVEN THE DUCKS HAD GONE HOME !!

After the rain over the previous few days, ABs turned up at Bridgnorth to find even the ducks had gone home. With an overcast sky, several players stayed in the Clubhouse prior to the start of the game. But start we did, even though it was still raining. The pitch remarkably held up, credit to Bridgnorth for that, and as the game progressed the weather improved. Skipper decided on a few positional changes with Clive Kendall at centre half and Paul Sharratt at centre forward, which initially didn't quite work. ABs were put under pressure from the start and poor marking nearly resulted in Bridgnorth taking the lead but Rod Harling in goal was up to the task. After about 10 minutes ABs began to settle, but with Clive Kendall having to leave the pitch, the re-organisation took a further step backwards. Soon after ABs got back to full strength, Bridgnorth took the lead. From a penalty corner a rising shot was nearly deflected wide by Rod Harling but the ball clipped the far post and fell into the goal. ABs immediately went on the offensive and soon after equalised. A swift inter-passing move starting with Patrick Brewster, via Nathanael Garfield led to the final pass from Keith Mulcock reaching Paul Sharratt, who calmly fired home. For the rest of the half ABs kept up the pressure and with Keith Mulcock pulling the strings and guest Nathanael Garfield on the right wing finding lots of space, further goals always looked likely.
Even the defence worked hard to get in on the act and Tony Perryman went off on a run only for the grass to be the winner as he slipped. Fortunately he was OK but he did get marks of 5.7 for Technical Merit and 5.9 for Presentation. ABs also had a gilt edge chance to increase their lead after both Paul Sharratt and skipper had shots well saved by the Bridgnorth keeper, they were awarded a penalty stroke. Skipper had several options; take it himself (but not scored for 8 years). He was persuaded to let Clive Kendall take it - what a mistake - apparently the first time he has missed - and now sacked. Perhaps if we get another it may be Colin Newman's turn.
Not long after ABs further increased their lead. A move started at the back via Colin Newman and Keith Mulcock. Paul Sharratt then passed to Nathanael who played a 1-2 and Paul Sharratt taking the return pass, committed the keeper and then clinically finished. Bridgnorth refused to concede and duly reduced the deficit with a near post deflection giving Rod Harling no chance. ABs were not content to defend and still kept up the pressure with Mike Heywood and Colin Newman finding space down the left. Not long afterwards the pressure was rewarded as the ball was cleverly transferred into the circle. Paul Sharratt conned the keeper and calmly flicked the ball over him into the net - not bad for a midfielder !!
ABs weathered the final push by Bridgnorth to run out 4 - 2 winners.
Well done team, because when we pass the ball we look a useful unit.
After the game it is up to the skipper to pick the Man of the Match. Special mention to Patrick Brewster for his first game and looking silky, Colin Newman for always finding space at will, Bob Jameson for playing for ABs only - Bridgnorth had the choice - and Nathanael Garfield a youthful debutant, but it has to be Paul Sharratt.
Rod Harling, Phil Hall, Patrick Brewster, Bob Jameson, Clive Kendall, Tony Perryman, Colin Newman, Keith Mulcock, Paul Sharratt, Mike Heywood, Dudley Walker and Nathanael Garfield (youthful Guest).
Umpire - Chris Kitto