8/3/08
Bridgnorth 1 Coventry & N Warks 4
bridgnorth put in a much improved display in defeat to Coventry & N Warks in their penultimate Bodykraft Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth began well, keeping possession and moving the ball around with purpose. Coventry created the early chances but couldn't find a way past the Bridgnorth defence and keeper Lez Evans, who pulled off some fine saves. Bridgnorth's work rate was superb with every player behind the ball at the earliest opportunity
Bridgnorth played some good attacking hockey which resulted in some near misses, but eventually their persistence paid off when they took the lead through Paul Merrick, when he beat the keeper after a mazy dribble. Bridgnorth had a couple of opportunities to make it 2-0, but the chances were spurned. The score stayed 1-0 til half-time.
Coventry started the second half better putting Bridgnorth under pressure. Bridgnorth held firm, but fortune was against them when a hit from outside the 'D' was deflected by a Bridgnorth player onto the post. the ball came out to a Coventry player who then equalized. Bridgnorth then switched off for ten minutes which resulted in Coventry dictating the tempo and flow of the game. Coventry pushed forward in greater numbers as Bridgnorth's work rate dipped and in this period they scored another three goals to make it 4-1. Bridgnorth then took hold of the game and in the last ten minutes put Coventry on the defensive and could have made the score more respectable, but efforts were missed.
1/3/08
HARBORNE 8 V BRIDGNORTH 0
Bridgnorth suffered a heavy defeat to promotion chasing Harborne in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth began well, soaking up some early Harborne pressure before starting to play some good possession hockey. Harborne came forward in greater numbers, playing some quick and decisive hockey, but Bridgnorth resisted them well. The match was finely balanced when Harborne were awarded a free hit outside the "D", a dissenting voice made it a short corner and Harborne scored. Within five minutes Bridgnorth conceded two more gifted goals to give Harborne an undeserved 3-0 lead, when Bridgnorth had played some good hockey for little reward.
The second half was alot different with Harborne in the ascendancy, playing some fluent attacking hockey which Bridgnorth had little answer for. To their credit, Bridgnorth kept working hard and plugging away with Alix Cottam, Matt Martin and Ross Quaite working tirelessly for the cause. Unfortunately Bridgnorth couldn't score to get themselves back into the game with Matt Ealey sending a reverse stick shot narrowly wide and Paul Merrick missing a very difficult chance. Harborne, meanwhile, scored a further five goals at the other end to make the final score 8-0.
Saturday 23rd February 2008
BRIDGNORTH 2 V LICHFIELD 1
Scorers: M.Ealey
N.Gray
Bridgnorth put on an excellent display in beating Lichfield in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Lichfield started the better by playing a full press and putting Bridgnorth under early pressure. Bridgnorth struggled to find any fluency and found themselves a goal down when a short corner strike deflected off Ali Raza's foot over goalkeeper Lez Evans into the goal. This sparked Bridgnorth into action and they then started to dominate posession and play some good attacking hockey. It wasn't long before Bridgnorth equalized when after some good work down the right, the ball fell to Matt Ealey who coolly slotted the ball home. Bridgnorth made more chances but couldn't increase their lead before half time.
Bridgnorth knew the next goal was crucial and with Lichfield tiring, Bridgnorth went all out for victory. They continued to play a patient game, keeping possession well and moving the ball around with intent. This was rewarded when Nick Gray gave Bridgnorth the lead with a fierce short corner strike. Bridgnorth continued to push forward and the work rate from the whole team was magnificent. Bridgnorth should have had the game wrapped up, but spurned some guilt-edged chances which would have made things easier. Luckily keeper Lez Evans and the Bridgnorth defense were in fine form to earn them three valuable points.
Sunday 24th February 2008
WEST BRIDGFORD 4 V BRIDGNORTH 0
Bridgnorth produced a heroic display, but couldn't avoid defeat to West Bridgford in their re-arranged BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Sunday.
Bridgnorth's injury jinx struck again as three players from Saturday's win missed Sunday's game. Bridgnorth started well, playing a more controlled game and creating some early chances with Paul Merrick and Matt Ealey going close. West Bridgford came more into the game as the half progressed and had chances themselves but keeper Lez Evans was in fine form and kept them at bay. Bridgford increased the pressure as the game went on, which meant Bridgnorth struggled to get the ball out of defense. This resulted in West Bridgford taking the lead, when a Bridgnorth pass went astray, and easy opportunity was taken giving Evans no chance. Bridgnorth kept battling and working hard with Kevin Thomas, Matt Martin and Ross Quaite running relentlessly to the end. As Bridgnorth tried to push for the equalizer, gaps appeared at the back which towards the end of the game West Bridgford exploited very well and they scored three quick goals in this period giving the Bridgnorth defense no chance. Bridgnorth kept going to the end and never gave up in what was a very difficult day.
MANSFIELD 2 V BRIDGNORTH 0
Bridgnorth produced a spirited display in defeat to Mansfield in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Due to unavailability and illness, Bridgnorth were down to the bare bones and things didn't improve when Dan Roberts caught a ball flush on the knee and took no further part in the game after 10 minutes. This left Bridgnorth with only eleven and players having to play out of position, but they showed lots of character and fight. Bridgnorth created a few early opportunities but couldn't quite find the finishing touch. Mansfield pushed forward with purpose and took the lead midway through the half when a shot found the corner of the goal. Bridgnorth started to play some incisive hockey afterwards and were unlucky not to equalize with Matt Ealey, Peter Dayborn and Nick Gray all going close. Mansfield could have increased their lead byt were denied by some last ditch defending and a clearance off the line, the score remained 1-0 until half-time.
Bridgnorth found it tough going in the second half as legs began to tire, but they kept going until the end for little reward. Mansfield had much of the posession but struggled to break through the dogged Bridgnorth defence, this kept Bridgnorth in the game and the few chances they created went begging. Mansfield wrapped the game up towards the end after a good move. Bridgnorth's work rate was superb and on another day they could have got something out of this game, but, not for the first time this season, came away empty handed.
Bridgnoth face a make or break weekend with games against fellow strugglers Lichfield at home on Saturday and West Bridgford away on Sunday, when the need to pick up maximum points to avoid any chance of relegation.
BRIDGNORTH 0 V WORCESTER 2
In a tight game, Bridgnorth showed great fight in defeat to Worcester in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth got stuck in from the off and played some good, controlled hockey in front of a buoyant crowd. Worcester created the first chance but the shot went just wide. Bridgnorth moved the ball around well and created chances themselves but were just unable to convert them. Worcester had a little more possession in the middle of the pitch, but Bridgnorth's work rate was superb, which resulted in plenty of the players being behind the ball and this made life more difficult for Worcester, who in turn struggled to penetrate the Bridgnorth's defence and when they did, found Bridgnorth's keeper Lez Evans in fine form. The score remained 0-0 until half-time.
With the game on a knife edge, Bridgnorth knew the first goal would be crucial, unfortunately it fell to Worcester minutes into the half when Evans saved well from a short corner, only for the ball to rebound to a Worcester player who couldn't miss. Bridgnorth stayed positive and continued to play some excellent hockey and put the visitors under pressure. But after giving the ball away, Worcester punished Bridgnorth with a well worked goal which gave them little chance. Bridgnorth weren't finished and they pushed forward in numbers and on another day could have got something from this game with the chances they created, with Matt Ealey, Peter Dayborn, Paul Merrick, Bruno Mustone and Nick Gray all going close. But unfortunately it wasn't to be and the score stayed at 0-2 until the end.
This was one of Bridgnorth's best performance of the season and they can take many positives from this. The work rate, discipline and play were all superb and they need to use this for the remainder of the season, starting on Saturday away at Mansfield.
BRIDGNORTH 1 V SUTTON COLDFIELD 7
Scorer: Matthew Ealey
Bridgnorth suffered a crushing defeat against bottom of the table Sutton Coldfield in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth were slow out of the blocks and let Sutton dictate the flow of the game early on. Sutton didn't need a second invitation to stamp their authority, and took the lead after 10 minutes. The goal spurred Bridgnorth into action and they began to play some better hockey, and deservedly drew level after some good work by Danny Wright set up Matt Ealey, who tapped in. Sutton came back but found Bridgnorth keeper Andy Lowdon in fine form. The whole game changed when Sutton were awarded two debatable strokes close to each other which they converted to make it 1-3. This knocked the stuffing out of Bridgnorth, who failed to recover for the rest of the game.
The second half was mainly one-way traffic in Sutton's favour, with Bridgnorth only showing glimpses of how they can play. Sutton attacked at will and put the Bridgnorth defence under immense pressure. It was only a matter of time until Sutton scored and they wrapped up the game midway through the half with two quick goals. Bridgnorth struggled with their first touch, and seldom put four or five passes together and they were severely punished for his when Sutton scored two more goals towards the end. It could have been many more but for some last ditch defending and more excellent saves from Lowdon.
This was a real kick in the teeth for Bridgnorth in what was a huge game for them. They need to regroup fast and remain committed and focused with a crucial game against fellow strugglers West Bridgford on Saturday.
OLTON & W.WARWICK 6 V BRIDGNORTH 0
Bridgnorth came back down to earth with a heavy defeat against high flying Olton in their BodyKraft Midland Premier league match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started well, but were put under pressure early on which they withstood stoically, and just as they were getting themselves into the game, Olton were awarded a debatable penalty stroke which they scored from. Minutes later, Olton make it 2-0 when a mundane strike managed to find the corner of the goal. This knocked the stuffing out of Bridgnorth who failed to recover for the rest of the game, they worked hard as a team but found Olton in superb form. Olton could have increased their lead before half-time but some gutsy last ditch defending denied them.
The second half was much the same with Olton putting Bridgnorth increasingly on the back foot. Bridgnorth had a couple of half chances to get back into the game but they couldn't take them. The game was put beyond doubt when Olton scored twice in close proximity to make it 4-0. To their credit, Bridgnorth never gave in and kept battling. Olton were awarded another stroke when the ball inadvertantly hit Skipper James Childs' foot on the line, to compound the misery he was shown a yellow card for his troubles. While off the pitch, Olton scored their flick and then made it 6-0 soon after. Bridgnorth's day was summed up when they were awarded a stroke themselves when Paul Merrick was sent into orbit by a horrendous two footed tackle (no yellow card shown!), but Danny Wright's flick was saved by the Olton keeper!
NOTTINGHAM 1 V BRIDGNORTH 3 (Sunday 13/01/08)
Scorers: Nick Gray
Peter Dayborn
Danny Wright
Bridgnorth put Saturday's defeat behind them to record a superb win in their re-arranged Bodykraft Midland Premier league match against Nottingham on Sunday.
Bridgnorth knew this was a make or break match and they responded brilliantly producing by far their best performance of the season. They immediately put Nottingham on the back foot playing some crisp, quick hockey and could have taken an early lead but Danny Wright's rasping shot collided with the post to safety. Nottingham showed glimpses of their former glories but with Ali Raza in majestic form at the back. they found things very difficult. Bridgnorth deservedly took the lead when a Nick Gray drag flick from a short corner trickled over the line. Bridgnorth had one minor blip just before half time when they let Nottingham equalize, against the run of play, with a scrappy goal.
Bridgnorth came out fighting in the second half and again played some terrific and committed hockey, as the half wore on chances were made, but not taken. The game was on a knife edge, but to Bridgnorth's credit they plugged away and never gave up. This effort was rewarded when Peter Dayborn made it 2-1 midway through the half. Minutes later Danny Wright made it 3-1 with a thunderbolt shot into the corner after a short corner had broken down. Bridgnorth held on comfortably until the end to earn themselves a valuable three points in their survival quest.
BRIDGNORTH 3 V NORTH STAFFORD 5 (Saturday 12/01/08)
Scorers:Danny Wright
Matthew Ealey
Bridgnorth suffered defeat to North Stafford in their first Bodykraft Midland Premier league match after the Christmas break on Saturday.
Bridgnorth conceded two early goals which immediately put them on the back foot, but after this initial blow they picked themselves up and started to play some good hockey. This resulted in Danny Wright reducing the arrears from close range after some excellent work down the right by Matt Ealey. Having got themselves back into the game, Bridgnorth switched off and conceded a sloppy third and while they were recovering from that they let North Stafford go 4-1 up just before half time.
Bridgnorth produced a much better display in the second half with North Stafford hardly having a squeak up front. Bridgnorth played a much more disciplined and controlled game in which chances were created. Unfortunately on a rare foray forward, North Stafford won a penalty stroke which was converted to make it 5-1. Heads could have gone down but Bridgnorth showed great character to dominate the rest of the game and deservedly pulled two goals back through Ealey after good work by Kevin Thomas.
BRIDGNORTH 2 V BLOSSOMFIELD 5
In their first game back after the Christmas break, Bridgnorth produced an average performance against Solihull Blossomfield, a side one league below them.
Bridgnorth started well, controlling the game and moving the ball around with purpose. They quickly took the lead when a miss-hit short corner strike fell to Paul Hockenhull who coolly slotted the ball home. Moments later it was 2-0 when Peter Dayborn broke away and easily beat the advancing goalkeeper. Bridgnorth should have had the game wrapped up there and then, but alas, they let Blossomfield back into the game with a combination of poor marking, too much individualism and a lack of basic hockey play. Bridgnorth were punished when a Blossomfield player was left free in the "D" and had time to place the ball in the goal, minutes later the same again happened and it was 2-2. Blossomfield now had the momentum and went 3-2 up after a short corner.
Bridgnorth struggled for any coherency in the second half, but did create some chances but couldn't quite find the equalizer. As they pushed further forward, gaps appeared at the back which Blossomfield exploited and they soon went 4-2 up. Not long after it was 5-2 with Bridgnorth struggling to get into the game.
It was not an ideal preparation for Bridgnorth with a league double header coming up this weekend against North Stafford and Nottingham which are must win games, but the players need to stay focused and positive in their quest for survival.
BRIDGNORTH (3) V CHESTERFIELD (5)
Scorers: B.Mustone
D.Wright
N.Gray
Bridgnorth put in one of their best perfomances in defeat to Chesterfield in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth got off to a bad start when their injury jinx struck again when Chris Coulson had to go off after only two minutes. Bridgnorth were not deterred though and immediately took the lead through Bruno Mustone, after some good work by Dan Wright. Bridgnorth moved the ball around at pace and kept possession well, but it was the visitors who equalised with a scrappy goal.
Bridgnorth were then awarded a penalty stroke which was downgraded to a short corner after Chesterfield appealed. Bridgnorth kept going and deservedly re-took the lead with a fine goal by Wright, but Bridgnorth let Chesterfield equalise again shortly after from a short corner. The score stayed 2-2 until half-time.
Bridgnorth let Chesterfield take the lead at the start of the second half after some slack marking, but they never gave in and continued to play some excellent hockey. Bridgnorth thought they'd drawn level when Peter Dayborn's deflection found the roof of the net, but the ball was deemed to have been lifted and the goal was disallowed! With Bridgnorth pushing forward, more gaps appeared and this was exploited by Chesterfield who went 4-2 up. Almost immediately, Bridgnorth responded when a rasping short corner strike by Nick Gray found the back of the net. Chesterfield then had two players sin-binned, but Bridgnorth couldn't find the equaliser and were punished late on when Chesterfield made their score 5-3.
James Childs
Bridgnorth 1st XI Captain
COVENTRY & N.WARWICKS (3) V BRIDGNORTH 1st XI (1)
Scorer: Danny Wright
Bridgnorth put in a brave performance in defeat to highflyers Coventry & North Warwicks in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth began well, keeping possession and playing short, sharp passes which made their hosts work hard for the ball. As the half went on, Coventry came more into the game, gradually increasing the pressure on the Bridgnorth defence which again stood firm. Bridgnorth worked tirelessly and created some opportunities themselves with Ali Raza finding Alix Cottam in plenty of space on numerous occasions, and in turn Cottam worked well with Matt Martin down the right flank with both firing in excellent crosses. Unfornately nobody was in a position to put the ball in. It was the hosts though who took the lead towards the end of the half, when Andy Lowdon made a fine save from a short corner but the rebound was smashed home.
Bridgnorth continued in the same vein in the second half playing some good hockey but finding themselves on the back foot against a well organised Coventry unit. Coventry could have increased their lead but for some wasteful misses and good saves by Lowdon. Bridgnorth kept battling hard showing lots of character but couldn't find the equaliser. All the hard work was spoilt when Coventry went 2-0 up after a short corner was deflected in and shortly after it was 3-0 when a cross was deflected luckily to the Coventry forward who slapped the ball into the top corner. To their credit, Bridgnorth never gave in and after a fine passing move, Danny Wright flicked the ball into the roof of the net to make the final score 3-1.
James Childs
Bridgnorth 1st XI Captain
BRIDGNORTH (1) V HARBORNE (4)
Scorer: Danny Wright
Bridgnorth put in a spirited performance in defeat to tabletoppers Harborne in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started well playing the ball around with purpose and conviction, and putting the visitors on the back foot. This resulted in some half chances being created, but nothing came from them. The game became very tight as both sides settled into their strides, with Bridgnorth playing much more positively than they had done the previous week. After all the possession Bridgnorth had, it was Harborne who took the lead. When a looping shot wasn't cleared, it fell to a Harborne forward who smashed the ball home. Bridgnorth continued to push forward for the equalizer with numerous balls flashing past the back post, but nobody was there to deflect the ball in.
The second half was more open than the first with Bridgnorth playing some excellent hockey at times. Bridgnorth were unlucky not to equalize when after a short corner broke down the ball fell to Ali Raza, whose reverse stick shot cannoned off the post to safety. Harborne had chances themselves, but good defending and goalkeeping kept them at bay. Then, just when the game was evenly poised, Bridgnorth made two errors which cost them two goals and within a few minutes they were 3-0 down. To their credit, Bridgnorth didn't give up, they pushed forward and were rewarded when Raza's cross was deflected in by Danny Wright to make it 3-1. Harborne added a fourth late on which flattened them.
Bridgnorth played well on the whole and can take many positives away from this game, but they know they need to cut out the mistakes to get the benefits from this.
James Childs
Bridgnorth 1st XI Captain
LICHFIELD 3 V BRIDGNORTH 1
Scorer: Peter Dayborn
Bridgnorth lost a tight game to Lichfield on Saturday in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match.
Bridgnorth began where they left off in the previous week, playing some excellent attacking hockey and putting their hosts under immediate pressure. They were rewarded instantly when after a fine move through the middle, Peter Dayborn found the top corner with a rasping strike on the half volley. Bridgnorth were in control and looking for a second when their achilles heel struck again, errors crept into their play and this gifted Lichfield an opportunity to equalize which they duly did. Soon after Lichfield went 2-1 up when after hesistancy in the Bridgnorth defence, a shot to nothing somehow found it's way into the goal. This knocked the stuffing out of Bridgnorth who failed to recover for the rest of the game.
The second half was end to end, but neither side had the cutting edge to take control of the game, and chances were few and far between. Bridgnorth's performance was flat and littered with too many mistakes which permeated through the team. Bridgnorth nearly equalized when a Nick Gray reverse stick shot went narrowly wide, but late on in the game Lichfield wrapped up the match when they made it 3-1 through a scrappy goal, which summed up Bridgnorth's afternoon.
Bridgnorth know they need to improve quickly and start to play like they did in the first twenty minutes of the game on a more regular basis. They need to put this, on the whole, insipid display behind them with a visit from high flying Harbourne to come on Saturday.
James Childs
Bridgnorth 1st XI Captain
BRIDGNORTH 3 MANSFIELD 1
10/11/07
Bridgnorth produced their best performance of the season to defeat a useful Mansfield side in their BodyKraft Midlands Premier Division League Game on Saturday.
Mansfield started the stronger of the two sides and could have scored on two or three occasions but were thwarted by some good saves by ‘keeper Andy Lowdon in the Bridgnorth goal. The home side weathered the storm, got their heads up and started to play some fast incisive hockey with short sharp passes interspersed with long accurate balls from Ali Raza, and as the game opened up both sides created chances but the score surprisingly was 0-0 at half time.
Bridgnorth came out strongly at the beginning of the second half playing with a confidence which has been lacking in recent weeks and quickly opened the scoring when Chris Coulson scored following a fine cross from Matt Martin. Bridgnorth doubled their lead in minutes when Dan Wright deflected home an Ali Raza short corner strike and 10 minutes later made it 3-0 when Peter Daborn fired home at the end of a good flowing move. Bridgnorth created more openings and should have made it 4-0 when a Coulson shot ricocheted off the foot of the post. Mansfield never let their heads go down and continued to press forward and pulled a goal back from a short corner in the dying minutes. This spurred the visitors but good defending ensured no further scares as Bridgnorth ran out deserved winners of the three points.
This was a much-improved display by the Bridgnorth team who worked hard for the 70 minutes and they will look to carry this form in to their next game away to Lichfield
WORCESTER (4) V BRIDGNORTH (1)
Scorer: Danny Wright
Bridgnorth put in an error strewn performance in defeat to Worcester in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth began brightly for the first 10-15 minutes, moving the ball around with pace and purpose, and causing Worcester some problems. Then errors started to creep into Bridgnorth's play and that handed the impetus to Worcester who then began to play some expansive hockey. It wasn't long before Worcester took the lead through a well executed strike, soon after that it was 2-0 when the Bridgnorth defence was left stranded again. Bridgnorth struggled to find any rhythm and fluency and before they knew it, they were 3-0 after another well-orchestrated attack.
After some stern words at half-time, Bridgnorth put on an improved display in the second half. They were under pressure alot of the time, but showed some character and fight, especially when they went 4-0 down after a short corner strike. Bridgnorth then started to play some basic hockey, something they failed to do in the first half, with much more movement and short, sharp passing. This pushed Worcester further back and enabled Bridgnorth to create some chances of their own. Bridgnorth gained a consolation goal at the death through Danny Wright, but know they have to eradicate the mistakes made as a team and put in a much improved performance this Saturday against Mansfield.
James Childs
Bridgnorth 1st XI Captain.
BRIDGNORTH 1st XI (1) V WEST BRIDGFORD (1)
Scorer: Kevin Thomas
Bridgnorth gained a point against a spirited West Bridgford side in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
The visitors started the better putting Bridgnorth under pressure early on. Bridgnorth then came more into the game, passing the ball around with ease but struggling to penetrate the Bridgford defense. Bridgford took the lead midway through the half when after a succession of short corners, a rasping effort found the bottom corner. Bridgnorth continued to dominate possession but kept giving the ball away cheaply in vital areas. Just before half-time, Bridgnorth equalised when after a good pass by Birthday boy Alix Cottam, Kevin Thomas bundled the ball over the line.
In the second half, Bridgnorth continued to have plenty of the ball but with Bridgford employing a full press combined with some sloppy play, Bridgnorth struggled to break through. Bridgford, however, were on the front foot and with the Bridgnorth defense at full stretch, they started to create some half-time chances but found keeper Lez Evans in sparkling form. Bridgnorth weathered the storm which included eight short corners, and only in the last ten minutes did they push forward in numbers and start to play some good hockey. In the final seconds, Bridgnorth could have won the match but a fine save by the Bridford keeper kept the scores level.
Bridgnorth know they need to improve collectively with a tough trip to Worcester this weekend.
James Childs
SUTTON COLDFIELD 1st XI (3) V BRIDGNORTH 1st XI (4)
Scorers: Ali Raza (2)
Paul Merrick
Dave Tuckett-Goode
Bridgnorth earned their first three points of the season with a gutsy display against Sutton Coldfield in their BodyKraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started shakily on a very wet surface and after a defensive mistake, Sutton took the lead. Bridgnorth soon found themselves 2-0 down when an illegal back stick was used in the "D" and a penalty stroke was awarded and duly converted. The introduction of Dave Goode spurred Bridgnorth into action as they increased the tempo of their play. It was Goode who pulled a goal back with a rasping shot after a good move down the right. Almost immediately, Bridgnorth drew level when after a good ball by Paul Hockenhull, Paul Merrick caressed the ball into the goal. Neither side could add to their tallies before half time.
After the interval, Bridgnorth stepped up their game and started to play some quick, free-flowing hockey. This produced some good chances, but unfortunately they weren't taken. Bridgnorth kept their shape, and their patience was rewared when Ali Raza gave them the lead with an accurate shot from a short corner. Within a few minutes Bridgnorth went 4-2 up when after another good move, a short corner was awarded which Raza again despatched with venomous strike. Bridgnorth could and should have scored more goals to make the game safe, but the opportunities were missed. Sutton pulled a goal back late on, but it wasn't enough to deny Bridgnorth three points.
James Childs
Bridgnorth 1st XI Captain
BRIDGNORTH 1st XI (3) v OLTON & WARWICKS (4)
Scorers: Rob Foster
Danny Wright
Matt Martin
Bridgnorth gave a much improved performance, despite a third successive defeat, to Olton in their Bodykraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
The game started well, with both sides jostling for territorial advantage, but it was the visitors who took an early lead after a good move down the right. Bridgnorth equalized almost immediately when after a fine passing move, Rob Foster squeezed the ball home from close range. This opened the game up with chances created and missed at either end. Bridgnorth strung some good passing moves together, but weren't quite clinical enough in the "D". The home side then switched off momentarily and Olton went ahead. Bridgnorth soon went 3-1 down when Olton scored from a short corner.
Bridgnorth continued to play some bright hockey in the second half but were always playing catch up especially when Olton went 4-1 ahead with a scrappy goal. Bridgnorth sprung into life and pushed forward in greater numbers and, as time was running out, Danny Wright scored to make it 4-2. Straight away debutante Matt Martin popped up at the back post to make the score 4-3, but Bridgnorth couldn't get the ball back and the score stayed the same.
This was a more encouraging display by Bridgnorth, but they need to cut out errors in play and concentration quickly, if they want to move up the league.
James Childs
NORTH STAFFORD 1st XI (3) V BRIDGNORTH 1st XI (1)
Scorer: Bruno Mustone
Bridgnorth put in a lacklustre performance in defeat to North Stafford in their Bodykraft Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started badly and were immediately put on the backfoot by a fit and lively North Staffs team, who deservedly took an early lead when a miss-hit short corner was deflected into the goal. Bridgnorth soon went 2 - 0 down when a mistake at the back was duly punished. Bridgnorth struggled to put any passes together and there was little coherency in their play. North Staffs could have had the game wrapped up by half-time but found 15 year old keeper Andy Lowdon in fine form. Bridgnorth were a little better in the second half giving the ball away at the earliest opportunity and therefore struggling to stem the tide of attacks against them. Bridgnorth were again indebted to Lowdon who pulled off a string of brilliant saves to keep Bridgnorth in a match they deserved nothing from. Eventually after a goalmouth scramble, North Staffs made it 3 - 0. Bridgnorth gained a consolation goal when an Ali Raza free hit from outside the "D" was deflected in well by Bruno Mustone to make the final score 3 - 1.
Bridgnorth need to stay positive and focused and get over this game quickly, and remember how they have played in the last couple of weeks preceding this, which has been encouraging.
James Childs
Bridgnorth 1st XI Captain
BRIDGNORTH 1st XI (1) v NOTTINGHAM 1st XI (3)
Scorer Peter Dayborn
Bridgnorth put in a good performance, but lost their first Bodykraft Midland Premier League match against Nottingham on Saturday.
Nottingham started the stronger and immediately put Bridgnorth under pressure with their quick movement and fast ball pace. Bridgnorth thought they'd weathered the storm, but a good move down the left resulted in Nottingham taking the lead after the ball was deflected in from close range. Bridgnorth then came more into the game and started to play some controlled hockey and were twice unlucky not to equalize when Nick Gray had two short corner strikes saved on the line. Other half chances were created but Bridgnorth couldn't find the net befrore half-time.
Bridgnorth came out determined in the second half and put Nottingham on the back foot. Bridgnorth played some excellent free-flowing hockey and deservedly drew level when after a superb through ball by Gray, Peter Dayborn reverse-sticked the ball over the advancing keeper into the net. Bridgnorth should have gone two if not three - one up as several chances went begging. Bridgnorth were made to pay for these misses, when a short corner brokedown Nottingham went straight up the other end and scored, and to rub salt in the wounds soon after they made it 3 - 1 when a short corner strike was bundled in from close range. To Bridgnorth's credit, they stuck to their task and worked hard for 70 minutes but couldn't quite get themselves back into the game.
James Childs
HARBORNE 1ST XI 6 BRIDGNORTH 1ST XI 3
Bridgnorth put up a spirited display, but couldn't avoid defeat against a strong Harborne side in their last warm up game before the league starts.
Bridgnorth began positively, playing with great fluency and could have been two or three up early on, but the chances went begging. Bridgnorth were duly punished as Harborne took the lead from a short corner. Soon it was 2 - 0 after a good Harborne move. Bridgnorth continued to push forward with purpose, with Danny Wright, Peter Dayborn and Matt Ealey working well together. Bridgnorth though were unfortunate to go 3 - 0 down after a dubious umpiring decision resulted in a short corner in which Harborne scored. Bridgnorth didn't give in and worked tirelessly to get back into the game and were rewarded just before half-time when Ealey pounced back at the back post to slot the ball home.
In the second half, Bridgnorth knew the next goal was crucial, and they got it immediately after a good move down the right saw Kevin Thomas pass to Dayborn who smashed the ball into the goal. Unfortunately, Harborne made it 4 - 2 straight away after another bizarre umpiring decision. Now the game really opened up with chances at both ends, but the Harborne keeper and Bridgnorth's Andy Lowdon made some superb saves to keep their sides in the game. Eventually though, Harborne scored two quick goals to make it 6 - 2. Bridgnorth kept going and Ealey scored his second late on with a delicate deflection past the keeper to make the score 6 - 3.
Bridgnorth were disappointed to lose even though they had put in a good performance, but know there are things to work on and improve before Saturday's league opener.
James Childs
Bridgnorth XI Captain
Match Report by Phil Herdson
Lichfield 1 Bridgnorth 0
Bridgnorth warmed up for their BodyKraft Midlands Premier League programme against fellow league side Lichfield and produced their best performance of the season so far and lost narrowly to a strong side that were relegated from the National League last season.
Bridgnorth started strongly and played some excellent hockey with fluent passing which put the home side under pressure forcing the ‘keeper to make a number of fine saves. As the game progressed Lichfield exerted their own pressure and Andy Loudon in the Bridgnorth goal was required to make a number of smart saves. At the other end Matt Ealey went close after an interchange of passes with Dan Wright. Lichfield took the lead against the run of play when Ali Raza was adjudged to have impeded a forward in the ‘D’ and Lichfield duly despatched the resulting penalty stroke. In the second half Bridgnorth again pressed forward with Dan Wright going close on several occasions. Several short corners went begging and Bridgnorth were unlucky not to be awarded a penalty stroke when Dan Wright was blocked in the circle.
This was a much-improved performance with a strong showing from Vijay Chumber, the evergreen Kev Thomas and youngster Matt Ealey.
Next Saturday Bridgnorth again have a friendly with a fixture away against Harborne a fellow BodyKraft Midlands Premier Division side.
NB
Former Bridgnorth star Pete Evans now playing for National League North side Telford & Wrekin scored in the clubs 2-0 defeat against Sheffield Hallam Civica on the Shropshire sides National League debut.
Saturday 8th September 2007
Match Report by Phil Herdson
Bridgnorth 1st’s 3 Shrewsbury 1st’s 5
Bridgnorth had the earliest of opportunities to avenge their ‘Shropshire Star’ County Cup defeat but in the final analysis it was the County Town side who came away victorious.
Bridgnorth started with great purpose and took the lead after 4 minutes when a fierce shot from Paul Merrick deflected off the ‘keeper and a post to find the back of the net. Playing with confidence they increased their lead when the best move of the game saw Chris Coulson steer the ball home past a flat footed defence. Bridgnorth were coasting but a quick break saw the visitors pull a goal back. Worse was to follow when debatable short corner award saw the visitors score with a looping deflection which span over the head of young Bridgnorth ‘keeper Alex Loudon. A 2-2 score line at half time was somewhat unjust for Bridgnorth but there was no doubt Shrewsbury had started to play more cohesively as the half wore on.
The second half saw Shrewsbury continue to exert their dominance and they increased their lead when another controversial short corner award resulted in a penalty stroke which was duly despatched to put the visitors 3-2 up. Bridgnorth continued to press forward but their attacks lacked penetration in the 25 and they went further behind when they lost possession in midfield and Shrewsbury made it 4-2. To compound Bridgnorth’s misery a fifth goal was added when unchallenged several Shrewsbury players interchanged passes at a short corner. Bridgnorth gave the score a slightly more respectable look when Paul Hockenhull capitalised on a short corner breakdown to slot the ball home.
Bridgnorth will need to up their fitness levels before the stat of the BodyKraft Midlands Hockey League programme on 29 September and a more direct approach to goal will be needed if they are to put their opponents under pressure.
Saturday 10th March 2007
Bridgnorth 1st XI 2-1 Chesterfield 1st XI
Bridgnorth earned a hard fought win against Chesterfield in their DTZ Midland Premier League Match on Saturday. Bridgnorth got off to the worst possible start when conceding a goal in the first few minutes from a short corner, but they soon got into their stride playing some good possession Hockey. Chances were few and far between in the first half with Bridgnorth dominating possession and moving the ball around patiently, but lacking that final bit of penetration into the opposing twenty five.
Bridgnorth upped the tempo in the second half and started to create some good chances early on, but couldn’t convert them. It looked like it was going to be on of those days for Bridgnorth, until they were awarded a short corner. Ali Raza’s resulting shot was deflected but the ball ballooned over the goalkeeper and defence and went in just under the crossbar, this spurred Bridgnorth on and with a few more chances narrowly missed, Bridgnorth then deservedly went in fron, when a Raza free hit from outside the D found Peter Evans who deflected the ball into the goal. Bridgnorth showed an abundance of character in the second half to win the match considering how results had gone recently.
Sunday 25th February 2007
Nottingham University 1st XI 3-3 Bridgnorth 1st XI
Bridgnorth threw away two points in their re-arranged DTZ Midland Premier League against Notts. University on Sunday.
Bridgnorth started well and took and early lead when a great ball from Ali Raza found Peter Evans free in the twenty five who went into the D and scored, minutes later it was 2-0 when Raza again found Evans, who then found Danny Wright all alone in the D and slotted the ball home. Bridgnorth looking comfortable pressed forward and created more chances with David Devey, Raza, Evans and Wright all going close, but they couldn’t increase their lead before half-time.
Early in the second half Bridgnorth went 3-0 up when Raza this time found Wright who passed to Evans,who was again unmarked to score. This should have been game over, but Bridgnorth construed to throw it away with an inept performance in the last 25 minutes, when the constantly gave possession away, forgot how to move the ball, looked for big hits up the field and lacked any basic hockey skills. Bridgnorth thoroughly got what they deserved when the students scored three goals and salvaged a point. The Bridgnorth players were all disappointed after the game and knew that they should have done better, which they will have to on Saturday with a tough trip to Mansfield.
Saturday 24th February 2007
Olton and West Warwicks 1st XI 1-1 Bridgnorth 1st XI
Bridgnorth drew with Olton on Saturday in their DTZ Midland Premier League Match in a game which they dominated and should have won.
The first half began with both sides playing some good free-flowing hockey with chances being created at either end, but it was Olton who took the lead through a fierce shot. Bridgnorth responded well with Nick Gray hitting the post and having a shot cleared off the line, and the front three of Paul Merrick, Danny Wright and Peter Evans all going close. It was only a matter of time before Bridgnorth equalised when Evans pounced on a good ball and fired home.
The Second half in the main was all one-way traffic with Bridgnorth virtually camped in the Olton half. They created numerous chances with which to take the lead but couldn’t find the net with shots being cleared off the line, deflected wide, and the goalkeeper making some good saves. Bridgnorth thought they’d taken the lead when they were awarded two penalty strokes in the space of five minutes, but both opportunities were missed, one wide, the other saved but Bridgnorth continued to “reign” in shots at goal but to no avail. Bridgnorth did everything in the game but win and in the end had to settle for a point.
Saturday 17th February 2007
Bridgnorth 1st XI 3-3 Harborne 1st XI
Bridgnorth drew a game that they should have won against Harborne in their DTZ Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started well and played some excellent free flowing Hockey, immediately putting their visitors under pressure. From this they took the lead after a fine ball from Ali Raza found Peter Evans unmarked who beat the keeper and put the ball in the net. Bridgnorth continued to put a squeeze on the Harborne struck back quickly scoring from a rebound, but Bridgnorth soon regained their two goal lead when another superb ball from Raza found Evans again who stroked the ball past the oncoming ‘keeper. Further chances were created bu they couldn’t increase their lead before half-time.
Bridgnorth kept up the pressure at the start of the second half and made several good chances, but they couldn’t capitalise on these to get the next vital goal. Bridgnorth then eased their foot off the gas, which allowed Harborne to get more into the game, they pulled one goal back through a good strike and then had a player sin-binned which increased the pressure on the Bridgnorth goal, then after a good move Harborne equalised to share the spoils.
Saturday 3rd February
Bridgnorth 3 West Bridgford 2
Bridgnorth Got back to winning ways with a hard fought victory over West Bridgford in their DTZ Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started brightly showing much effort and commitment and created early chances, with Nick Gray going the closest when hitting the post. Then after a sloppy five minute period Bridgnorth found themselves 2-0 down after some poor play and slack marking. But they kept their heads up and battled on and started to play some flowing hockey, they got themselves back into the game when Peter Evans pulled one back with a fine reverse stick shot and then Gray drew the sides level after a short corner flick found the net, Bridgnorth pressed on and deservedly took the lead when after a fine move down the right Evans swept the ball into the corner of the goal.
In the second half both teams created chances, but West Bridgford found youngsters Lewis Bevan and Alix Cottam in fine form to thwart them, Bridgnorth could and should have had the game wrapped up with three or four gilt-edged chances being missed. This made the last ten minutes very nervy. But Bridgnorth as a team held firm showing both character and determination to record an important victory in the context of the last few weeks
Saturday 27th January 2007
Telford 1st XI 9-3 Bridgnorth 1st XI
Bridgnorth suffered an embarrassing loss to local rivals Telford in their DTZ Midland Premier League match on Saturday. Telford started the better, immediately putting Bridgnorth on the back foot, Bridgnorth soaked up the pressure, but couldn’t find any fluency themselves. The pressure told in the end when Telford scored two quick goals. This gave Bridgnorth the impetus to start playing and they created chances themselves, with Nick Gray pulling a goal back from a short corner, other opportunities were made and missed with the Telford ‘keeper in fine form. Telford scored two more goals before half-time to make it 4-1.
Telford continued much the same in the second half with the Bridgnorth goal under siege, three more goals were scored before Bridgnorth started to push further up the pitch and put their hosts under pressure. This resulted in Danny Wright pulling a goal back, Telford added two more goals; one from a break away and one froma short corner, before Nick Gray scored his second and Bridgnorth’s third at the death to make the final score 9-3.
Saturday 20 January 2007
Bridgnorth 1 – 1 Sutton Coldfield.
Bridgnorth lost two points in a drawn game against Sutton Coldfield in their DTZ Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth began well putting Sutton on the back foot with some crisp and incisive play, resulting in early chances being made. Sutton were indebted to their ‘keeper who made a string of fine saves, especially one from Kevin Thomas, but Bridgnorth’s persistence paid off when Peter Evans gave them the lead midway through the half after rounding the ‘keeper in a one on one. Bridgnorth kept the pressure on and should have increased their lead by half time, but chances were squandered.
Bridgnorth were made to regret the missed opportunities, when in the second half they let Sutton back into the game by playing too deep and letting them dictate the flow of the game. Bridgnorth were put under severe pressure and only some resolute defending and good goalkeeping by Lewis Bevan kept Sutton out. In the end Sutton equalised from a short corner. This sprung Bridgnorth back into action and they started to play like they had in the first half, with yet again the Sutton ‘keeper saving well from Thomas. Late on Bridgnorth thought they’d won the match when Evans stole the ball and put it in the goal, but he was judged to have fouled the defender in doing so!
Saturday 13th January, 2007
Edgbaston 1st XI 2-1 Bridgnorth 1st XI
Bridgnorth lost a tight game against Edgbaston in their return to DTZ Midland Premier League action last Saturday.
Bridgnorth started well on the water based pitch, but it was their opponents who created the early chances. Bridgnorth came more into the game and had opportunities to score themselves, but some good goalkeeping kept them out. Edgbaston took the lead shortly after when a short corner strike found the bottom corner. Bridgnorth pressed forward playing some excellent attacking hockey with Peter Evans and Danny Wright both going close, but just before half time skipper James Childs equalised with a reverse stick shot which found the back of the net.
The second half was very tight with a lot of possession in the midfield area either side could have won the game but couldn’t capitalise their chances. The game looked like it was heading for a draw when some ill-discipline in the Bridgnorth ranks gave Edgbaston a short corner late on which they duly converted and took the three points. Bridgnorth were very disappointed afterwards but know there are ten league games left and all to play for.
Saturday 6th January, 2007
Solihull Blossomfield 1st XI 4-5 Bridgnorth 1st XI
Bridgnorth warmed up for league action this Saturday with a win against Blossomfield last week.
Bridgnorth started brightly, moving the ball around well and gradually got themselves up to speed after the Christmas break. They completely dominated the first half playing some excellent and decisive Hockey. Danny Wright made it 1-0 after a fine move down the left, then Peter Evans added a quick brace to make it 3-0. Bridgnorth had numerous other chances but the score stayed the same until half-time.
Birdgnorth took their foot off the gas in the second half allowing Blossomfield to come more into the game which they did by pulling two quick goals back, both from short corners. Bridgnorth responded immediately when Danny Wright scored his second. Blossomfield made it 4-3 before Ali Raza’s powerful drag flick mad it 5-3. Blossomfield socred a breakaway goal right at the end, but Bridgnorth deserved their win which sets them up well for tomorrow’s trip to Edgbaston.
Bridgnorth 1st XI 2 Finchfield 1st XI 2
BRIDGNORTH rounded off 2006 with a 2-2 draw in a friendly match against near neighbours Finchfield on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started well on a slow pitch, moving the ball around neatly and with purpose, and caused their opponents problems.
Early chances were created but not converted until Peter Evans gave Bridgnorth the lead midway through the half.
Bridgnorth could and should have increased their lead but chances were spurned and Finchfield were indebted to their ‘keeper who made some good saves.
They kept plugging away and drew level towards the end of the half when Simon Turner scored from a narrow angle.
The second half began the same as the first with Bridgnorth in the ascendancy but for all their pressure, they couldn’t find the back of the net.
It was Finchfield who took the lead when Tim Freeman scored after being found with a long pass from defence. Bridgnorth upped the tempo and after numerous short corners, Paul Hockenhall scored his first goal of the season.
The game ebbed and flowed, and in the dying seconds after a good move down the right, Nick Gray shot wide when in a good position and both sides had to settle for the draw.
Saturday 9th December
Shrewsbury 1st XI 1-6 Bridgnorth 1st XI
Bridgnorth regained top spot after a comfortable win against local rivals Shrewsbury in their DTZ Midland Premier League Match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started off nervously but soon gained momentum and began to play some good fluent hockey. They deservedly took the lead when Peter Evans fired the ball home and Evans soon made it 2-0 after another slick move. A rare lapse of concentration let Shrewsbury reduce the arrears, but it wasn’t long before Bridgnorth re-asserted their authority when Ali Raza’s drag flick found the top corner to make it 3-1. They weren’t finished there with Evans completing his hat-trick before half time with a deft reverse stick touch at the back post.
Bridgnorth continued in the same vein in the second half playing some superb free flowing hockey and creating chances at regular intervals. They went 5-1 in front when Nick Gray slid in at the back post to convert an Evans cross, Evans himself scored his fourth and the team’s sixth later on to wrap up a fine win and keep Bridgnorth firmly in the hunt for promotion.
Saturday 2nd December 2006
Bridgnorth 1st XI 2-2 Coventry and North Warwicks
Bridgnorth gained a well earned draw against Coventry and North Warwicks in their DTZ Midland Premier Match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started slowly allowing their opponents to dictate the tempo of the game this immediately put Bridgnorth under pressure and after some sloppy play, Coventry took the lead with a well struck shot. Bridgnorth struggled to find any fluency and were soon 2-0 down after a shot was deflected in at the back post. Bridgnorth survived until the end of the half with the score the same. After a positive team talk at half-time Bridgnorth increased the intensity of their play and pressurised the Coventry defence with the whol team showing character and commitment in abundance, midway through the half Bridgnorth reduced the arrears when a Nick Gray drag flick found the net, this spurred Bridgnorth on and after winning another short corner Ali Raza struck an exocet into the corner of the goal to draw level. Bridgnorth had a few half chances towards the end, but couldn’t convert them and the score stayed 2-2 until the end.
25th November 2006
Chesterfield 1st XI 1-3 Bridgnorth 1st XI
Bridgnorth made the long trip to chesterfield a profitable one when recording an dexcellent 3-1 win in their DTZ Midland Premier League Match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started well on a slowish pitch, playing patient, percentage hockey, but it was their hosts who took the lead when after a fortunate free hit was given outside the ‘D’. The resultant strike was deflected into the goal, Bridgnorth kept their heads up and continued to push forward and equalized minutes later after a Nick Gray drag flick. Bridgnorth continued to dominate and took the lead when after a broken down short corner, Dave Tuckett-Good’s shot was coolly slotted home by Paul Merrick.
Bridgnorth came out determined in the second half and could have easily increased their lead in the early stages. It took them fifteen minutes to do it after a fine move down the left hand side, David Devey stroked the ball home to make it 3-1. Chesterfield now pushed forward, but for all their possession never really threatened the Bridgnorth goal. With the whole team defending well and working hard to ensure the win, they moved to the top of the league.
Saturday 18th November 2006.
Bridgnorth 1st XI 1-1 Mansfield 1st XI
Bridgnorth gained a well earned point from leaders Mansfield in theier DTZ Midland Premier League Match on Saturday. Bridgnorth started slowly on a bouncy lileshall pitch with Mansfield putting them under early pressure, they created several opportunities, but good defending and goalkeeping kept them out. After fifteen minutes came more into the game and started to play with greater fluency, but it was Mansfield who took the lead after a short corner was deflected in off a Bridgnorth foot. Bridgnorth kept their heads up and pushed forward and deservedly equalised when after adetermined run Peter evans found the bottom right hand corner of the goal.
Bridgnorth started the second half well playing some good patient hockey and putting the visitors on the backfoot, when Mansfield came forward Bridgnorth soaked up the pressure and broke quickly which resulted in more chances being created with Danny Wright, David Devey and Evans all going close, even when down to ten men, when Daz Lewis was unluckily sent off, Bridgnorth looked the most likely to win the game and on another day they may well have.
Saturday 11th November 2006 1st XI
Harbourne 4-3 Bridgnorth
Bridgnorth suffered defeat in a close match against Harbourne in their DTZ Midland Premier League Match on Saturday. Bridgnorth began well, moving the ball around with purpose and created the early chances, but it was their hosts, slightly against the run of play, who took the lead from a short corner. Soon after they went 2-0 ahead after some sloppy Bridgnorth play.
Bridgnorth didn’t let their heads go down and they worked hard to get themselves back into the game, after some near misses, Nick Gray pulled one back after a short corner and a few minutes later Peter Evans levelled the scores.
Both teams came out determined in the second half with chances created at either end, it was Harbourne who regained the lead after another short corner and minutes later they increased their lead to 4-2, yet again Bridgnorth didn’t give up and pressed hard, they were rewarded when Evans made the score 4-3 after burrowing his way through the Harbourne defence and stroking the ball home. Bridgnorth then had numerous chances and opportunities to level the scores including four short corners at the end of the game, but unfortunately they couldn’t take them and Harbourne hung on for a valuable win.
Saturday 28th October 2006
Bridgnorth 1st XI 5-1 Nottingham University 1st XI
Bridgnorth continued their good form with a convincing win against Notts Uni in their DTZ Midland Premier League game on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started hesitantly and allowed the students to dictate the game for the first ten minutes, after then Bridgnorth dominated for long periods, midway through the half Ed Brown made it 1-0 when his shot was deflected in, minutes later after good work down the left Paul Merrick tapped in the second. Bridgnorth continued to play positive hockey but couldn’t add to their tally before half-time.
Bridgnorth started the second half in the same vein, putting the students under pressure and deservedly went 3-0 up when Peter Evans smashed a reverse stick shot into the roof of the net, the students never gave in and won a Penalty Stroke, which they converted to make it 3-1, but Bridgnorth soon upped the tempo and after a broken down opposition short corner, good work by Nick Gray and Evans, saw Gray add the fourth shortly after Brown scored his second and Bridgnorth’s fifth again after good work down the left hand side, the score stayed the same until the end with Bridgnorth producing another excellent display and boosting their goal difference at the same time.
Saturday 21st October 2006
West Bridgford 0 - 4 Bridgnorth
Bridgnorth bounced back with an emphatic win against West Bridgford (Nottingham) in their DTZ Midland Premier League Match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started well, on a pitch which was both wet and muddy; more suited to rugby than hockey, playing some fluent and patient hockey as they got used to the conditions. Midway through the first half Bridgnorth took the lead when Peter Evans unleashed a fierce shot into the bottom right hand corner of the goal. Bridgnorth pressed on and deservedly when 2-0 up and Evans beat the keeper in aone on one and coolly slotted the ball home, towards the end of the half Bridgford had a chance to reduce the arrears but debut keeper Lewis Bevan made a fine save to keep them out.
Bridgnorth began the second half much as they did the first nad wrappe d up the game in the first minute when Dave Tuckett-Good smashed the ball home to make it 3-0. Bridgford began to put some pressure on Bridgnorth, but with Bevan and the Bridgnorth defence in a determined mood little was created to worry them. Bridgnorth went 4-0 up when Ali Raza’s reverse stick shot found the bottom corner. Bridgnorth continued to push forward, and had several chances to further increase their lead, but couldn’t take them , they produced one of their best and most professional performances of the season.
Saturday 14 October 2006
Bridgnorth 1st XI 4-7 Telford 1st XI
Bridgnorth lost to local rivals Telford in a high scoring contest in their DTZ Midland Premier League Match on Saturday. Bridgnorth started well and put Telford under some early pressure and deservedly took the lead through Peter Evans after some good work by Daz Lewis and Paul Merrick. Bridgnorth were looking comfortable when a mistake let in Telford for the equaliser. Bridgnorth soon retook the lead when Evans scored his second , but Telford Levelled immediately after a short corner strike. With the game evenly poised, Bridgnorth had a horror ten minute spell, where Telford scored three goals to make it 2-5 at half time.
After a positive half time team talk, Bridgnorth hopes were shattered when again after errors, Telford scored twice more and went 7-2 ahead, but Bridgnorth didn’t give up and they kept on playing some enterprising attacking hockey, which resulted in Nick Gray converting a short corner and Danny Wright netting from close range to make the score 4-7. Bridgnorth pressurised Telford right up until the final whistle and could have scored more goals with the team’s commitment and effort in abundance.
Saturday 7th October 2006
Sutton Coldfield 3-4 Bridgnorth
Bridgnorth gained a hard fought win against Sutton Coldfield in their DTZ Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started well, playing some excellent counter-attacking hockey and could have gone ahead early on, but for a fine save from the goalkeeper after Paul Merrick thought he’d netted again. It wasn’t long before Bridgnorth scored though, Peter Evans with the decisive strike, shortly after it was 2-0 when Ali Raza scored from a short corner. Bridgnorth continued to push forward and created more chances. Sutton Coldfield pulled a goal back after some sloppy Bridgnorth play, but by half time Bridgnorth were 3-1 ahead thanks to a second goal from Evans.
Sutton Coldfield came out fighting for the second-half and put pressure on the Bridgnorth defence, which resulted in Sutton reducing the arrears to 3-2. Bridgnorth couldn’t get any fluency to their game, but battled hard and when Bruno Mustone popped up to make it 4-2 Bridgnorth thought they were safe, but Sutton scored again shortly after and Bridgnorth were then reduced to ten men with Edward Brown giving his marching orders, but some resilient team defending held Sutton at bay until the final whistle to record another win.
Saturday 30th September
Bridgnorth 1st XI 2-1 Edgbaston 1st XI
Bridgnorth got off to a winning start against Edgbaston in their first DTZ Midland Premier League match on Saturday. Bridgnorth started strongly putting Edgbaston under pressure, spraying the ball around the pitch with ease, this resulted in some early chances which were not converted. Bridgnorth thought they had taken the lead when Nick Gray found the net with a rasping drag flick, but he was deemed to have struck the ball and the goal was disallowed. Bridgnorth continued to press and deservedly took the lead when Paul Merrick pounced in the ‘D’ and pushed the ball home. Bridgnorth kept up the momentum and after some near misses, went 2-0 up through Danny Wright.
Bridgnorth started the second half slowly and let Edgbaston get back into the game and after some near misses for Bridgnorth, Edgbaston pulled a goal back when a short corner strike found the bottom corner of the goal. This gave Edgbaston some impetus but for all their effort they couldn’t break down the Bridgnorth defence, to find the equaliser.
Bridgnorth held on for the valuable three points in a game they should have won a lot more comfortably.
Saturday 16th September
Finchfield 1st XI 2-3 Bridgnorth
Bridgnorth earned a hard fought victory over local rivals Finchfield last Saturday in continued preparation for the DTZ league season. In the first twenty minutes Bridgnorth played some fine hockey; moving the ball around at pace with purpose and intent and after being virtually camped in Finchfield’s half deservedly took the lead when Paul Merrick deflected the ball in following a short corner, soon Ed Brown made it 2-0 slotting home from close range. Bridgnorth relaxed and let Finchfield back into the game and they could have scored before half time but for some good saves from ‘keeper Graham Ilic. Bridgnorth had plenty of chances themselves but couldn’t increase their lead. The second half started poorly for Bridgnorth who gave possession away far too easily and let their hosts back into the game. Finchfield pulled a goal back after some scrappy play down the right and then a few minutes later they equalised, again after some sloppy Bridgnorth defending, this was the catalyst for Bridgnorth to start playing and they were soon creating chances at will and eventually after several near misses re-took the lead when Peter Evans scored a penalty stroke after being brought down in the D. Bridgnorth held on until the final whistle to record another warm-up win.
Sunday 10th August
Men's 1st Vs Lichfield Won 5-3 Scorers Paul Merrick, Pete Evans (2), Nick Gray(2)
Bridgnorth produced a superb display to beat National League side Lichfield on Sunday in sweltering conditions. Bridgnorth started well, moving the ball around with purpose and energy, and created the best of the early chances, with the Bridgnorth forwards looking lively. It was only a matter of time before Bridgnorth scored, this they did when the Lichfield keeper kicked the ball straight to Danny Wright on the right and his pin-point cross was superbly reverse stick deflected into the goal by the evergreen Paul Merrick. Wright was unlucky not to make it 2-0 when his reverse stick shot cannoned against the post. Bridgnorth withstood some Lichfield pressure towards the end of the half but went in 1-0 up.
After a positive team talk from coach Ali Raza, Bridgnorth started the second half well putting continued pressure on the Lichfield defence, this paid off when Peter Evans made it 2-0. Soon after Evans made it 3-0 when rounding the keeper and coolly slotting the ball home. Bridgnorth then took their foot off the throttle and let Lichfield back into the game when they pulled two goals back in quick succession. Bridgnorth held their nerve and weathered the storm and deservedly increased their lead when Nick Gray smashed the ball home from the top of the D, after another fine passing move. Bridgnorth again let Lichfield score short afterwards, but Gray wrapped up a deserved victory when rifling home a drag flicked short-corner.
The firsts play away at Finchfield on Saturday before beginning their DTZ League campaign at the end of the month at home to Edgbaston
Men's 1st Vs Telford Lost 3-2 Scorers Ali Raza, Danny Wright
Men's 1st Vs Whitchurch Won 5-1 Scorers Ed Brown, Pete Evans, Ali Raza (2), Dave Devey
In their first competitive match of the season Bridgnorth lost 3-2 to Telford in a tight battle for a place in the county final.
Both teams started well playing some fluent hockey, with chances created at both ends. Telford took the lead midway through the first half after a good move down the right flank. Bridgnorth equalised just before hal-time, Danny Wright smashing the ball home from the top of the 'D'.
The second half started much the same with both sides pushing for the next goal, Telford scored it to do 2-1 up but Bridgnorth hit back when Ali Raza made it 2-2 after a short corner strike,. With the game heading towards penalty flicks, Telford scored the winner in the dying moments to progress to the final.
3rd/4th place play-off
Bridgnorth 5 Whitchurch 1
Bridgnorth secured 3rd place with a facile win against Whitchurch, Bridgnorth played some excellent attacking hockey and could have scored a dozen, but goals from Ed Brown, Peter Evans, Ali Raza (2) and debutant Dave Devey earned the win.
Bridgnorth start their DTZ league premier division campaign on Saturday 30th September at home to Edgbaston on the newly re-layed astroturf at 1.30pm at Bridgnorth Leisure Centre
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Match
Reports 2005/2006 Season
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04/03/06
Saturday 25th March 2006 Bridgnorth 1st XI 6 Players 1st XI 1
Bridgnorth recored and emphatic win against Players of Nottingham in their final Coaching Solutions Midland Premier League Match on Saturday. Bridgnorth started well putting the visitors under early pressure and they soon went 1-0 up when a Peter Evans missile found the back of the net. Bridgnorth continued to push forward causing Players all kinds of problems and deservedly went 2-0 ahead when after a fine passing move Callum Beaumont swept the ball into the roof of the goal with his first touch.
In the second half Bridgnorth continued in the same vein playing some good enterprising hockey, the score was soon 3-0 when Evans added his second and a quick brace from midfield maestro Nicholas Gray made the score 5-0. Bridgnorth even had time to let new boy Ali Raza score his first goal for the club after a fierce strike from the top of the D. Players scored a consolation goal at the end to make the final score 6-1.
Saturday 18 March 2006 Telford 3 Bridgnorth 2
Bridgnorth lost a game they should have won against local rivals Telford in their Coaching Solutions Midland Premier League Match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started the better, putting Telford under early pressure and dictated the tempo of the game, they played some good team hockey looking dangerous in attack and assured in defence, this culminated with Bridgnorth taking the lead when Dave Tuckett-Good scored from a well worked short corner routine. Soon after it was 2-0 when a Nick Gray drag flick found the corner of the net. Bridgnorth pressed on looking for a third goal, they had chances to increase their lead but could not take them, and the score remained the same until half time.
Bridgnorth started the second half poorly, letting a pumped up Telford Orchestrate the flow of the game, which resulted in Bridgnorth being put under immense pressure. They coped well until a mistake let in Telford to make it 2-1, shortly after it was 2-2 after a short corner drag flick found the roof of the net. Bridgnorth were now up against it, but could not find any fluency to their game. Telford created more chances and only goalkeeper Lez Evans stood in their way from adding to the tally. Bridgnorth kept battling and had a golden opportunity to retake the lead themselves after a scrappy affair in the D. A nervous last five minutes ensued, but Bridgnorth could not find an equaliser and Telford held on for the win.
Saturday 11 March 2006 Bridgnorth 3 Shrewsbury 4
Bridgnorth suffered defeat against local rivals Shrewsbury on Saturday in their Coaching Solutions Midland Premier League Match.
Bridgnorth welcomed new signing Ali Raza from Pakistan but started nevously and struggled to find any rhythm to their play. This enabled Shrewsbury, who needed the points to avoid relegation, to play the game at their tempo which resulted in Shrewsbury taking the lead after some sloppy play by Bridgnorth. The goal energised Bridgnorth to perform better and shortly after Peter Evans scored the equaliser after a good passing move. This should have been the platform for Bridgnorth to go on, but it was Shrewsbury who then palyed the better hockey and deservedly went 2-1 in front. The score could have been more for all the pressure Shrewsbury created but it remained 2-1 until half-time.
Bridgnorth cam out more determined in the second-half and started to play some fluent hockey, but Bridgnorth’s confidence was shattered when Shrewsbury were awarded a fortunate penalty stroke which they converted. Still shell-shocked Bridgnorth went 4-1 down and were starting down the barrel of a heavy defeat with Shrewsbury creating more chances to increas their lead. Bridgnorth never gave in and their persistance was rewarded when Callum Beaumont crept in at the back post to make it 4-2. Soon after Dave Tuckett-Good made it 4-3 and the game was “up for grabs”, with both sides pushing for the next goal. Bridgnorth had three gilt edged chances to secure a draw, if not victory, but could not take them. Eventually the final whistle went and Shrewsbury had gained a much needed win.
Bridgnorth will look to bounce back on Saturday with another local derby against Telford away at St. Georges (2:10pm push back).
Saturday 4th March 2006 2006 Sikh Union (Nottingham) 5 Bridgnorth 0
Bridgnorth suffered their first defeat since Christmas against leaders Sikh Union from Nottingham in their Coaching Solutions Midland Premier League Match on Saturday. Had Bridgnorth won they would have gone level on points with the leaders….
Bridgnorth started brightly and matched Sikh Union with what was thrown at them. Bridgnorth played some good, patient hockey and created chances themselves with the Skih Union keeper saving well from a Nick Gray drag flick, the score stayed 0-0 until half time with Bridgnorth well in the game.
The second half started disastrously for Bridgnorth, within a minute they found themselves 1-0 down after a short corner, soon after it was 2-0 after another short corner strike found the back of the net. This deflated Bridgnorth who then found it hard to get back into the game. Bridgnorth pushed more men forward in search of a goal, which left gaps at the back and Sikh Union exploited them three more times to wrap up the game 5-0.
To Bridgnorth’s credit they never gave in and kept working hard until the end. Bridgnorth aim to bounce back tomorrow, with a victory against local rivals Shrewsbury, at home on the astro at 12:30.
Saturday 25th February 2006 Bridgnorth 7 Olton and West Warwicks 2
Bridgnorth moved into second place in the league after thumping Olton and West Warwicks in their Coaching Solutions Midland Premier League Match on Saturday. Bridgnorth started positively taking the game to the opposition and caused early problems, after some sustained pressure Bridgnorth took the lead through Peter Evans from a short corner. Shortly after it was 2-0, Nick Gray converting a drag flick from another short corner. Olton hit back immediately scoring from a short corner of their own. Bridgnorth continued to press playing some good attacking hockey and went 3-1 up when Evans scored his second of the game. Bridgnorth created several more chances but couldn’t increase their lead. Olton never gave in and were awarded a fortunate looking penalty stroke which they converted to make the score 3-2 at a half time and set up a cracking second half.
Bridgnorth began the second half much as they did the first, playing some controlled and disciplined hockey which their visitors struggled to cope with. Bridgnorth scored the crucial next goal to go 4-2 up when Paul Hockenhull stroked in a short corner rebound. It was soon 5-2 when Danny Wright’s first time effort from the top of the D found the corner of the goal.
Olton’s plight was worsened when two of their players were sin binned for dissent, Bridgnorth took advantage of this with Evans completing his hat-trick from a penalty stroke after he was bundled over by the ‘keeper. Bridgnorth continued to push forward and played some of their best hockey of the season. Evans capped off the game by scoring his own 4th and the team’s seventh near the end to complete a good afternoon’s work in which the whole team worked hard and fully deserved the three points. A win against Sikh Union away at Nottingham on Saturday will put Bridgnorth within a whisker of the National League. This will be the most important game played by Bridgnorth in their 103 year history.
February 18th 2006
West Bridgford 2 Bridgnorth 3 Scorers Pete Evans, Dan Wright, Nick Gray
Bridgnorth moved up to third place in the league after a hard fought win against West Bridgford in their Coaching Solutions Midland Premier League match on Saturday.
Birdgnorth started positively, putting West Bridgford under early pressure and created several chances. Bridgnorth dictated the tempo of the game and played some good flowing hockey, to which their hosts had no reply. This eventually led to Bridgnorth taking the lead through Peter Evans who coolly deflected the ball over the keeper from a well worked short corner routine. Bridgnorth continually pushed forward and went 2-0 up thanks to a Nick Gray drag flick from the top of the D. Bridgnorth should have had the game wrapped up by half time, but couldn’t increase their lead.
Bridgnorth began the second half poorly, lacking any rhythm and fluency in their play, this gave West Bridgford a chance to get back into the game which they took by converting a penalty stroke. Soon after it was 2-2 after some sloppy defensive play, now the game was wide open with chances created at either end. Bridgnorth should have had a penalty stroke of their own after a goalbound shot was stopped by a defender’s body on the line, but were awarded a short corner instead. Bridgnorth pressed forward and scored the vital goal of the game when Danny Wright’s reverse stick shot found the corner of the net. Bridgnorth fought hard to protect their lead with the whole team working overtime and earning three valuable points.
Saturday 4th February 2006
Coventry and North Warwick 1st XI 2-2 Bridgnorth 1st XI
Bridgnorth kept up the push for promotion with a point, which could well have been three at second placed Coventry in their Coaching Solutions Midland Premier League Match on Saturday.
Bridgnorth started slowly and were put under increasing pressure by Coventry, who very quickly went 1-0 up; the opening twenty minutes was almost one-way traffic and Bridgnorth did well to keep the score as it was. Once Bridgnorth had weathered the storm, they began to play some good , patient Hockey, which resulted in a few chances being created.
In the second half Bridgnorth came more into the game and deservedly drew level when Peter Evans scored after being put through by Dave Tuckett-Good. Coventry began to panic and looked more ragged as Bridgnorth pushed forward for the second goal. It came again through Evans who deflected a Tuckett-Good pass into the net.
Coventry now charged forward looking for the equaliser but found no way through the stubborn Bridgnorth defence. Bridgnorth thought they had all three points when with five seconds to go a hit and hope ball was rifled in the D, it was touched by a Coventry player onto a Bridgnorth stick and looped agonisingly over ‘keeper Lez Evans into the corner of the goal. The points were shared but Bridgnorth can be pleased after a fantastic, hard working team effort.
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