Despite a terrible week for availability, we had a strong looking side on paper. The 3rds had been one of the better squads in turning players out, with thirteen in total available. Unfortunately this was cut to nine with the loss of four players to the 2nds, with Jack (doubling-up from the 1sts) and Tom P (called up from the 4ths) bringing us back to a bare XI. Thanks guys.

So there was hope at the start, but then it turned out that Peterborough were also here to play. The opening goal came inside the first five minutes and as a result of some high-class 3D skills. First an aerial pass was lifted over the South defence, picking out a forward free in the circle. Cheekily the forward didn't miss it, giving the nearest defender two options, both bad; either close down before it reached the deck and give away a short, or play by the rules and stand-off which probably meant an unchallenged shot. The option selected was to close down, but it brought only a temporary reprieve as the short was well finished with a drag flick into the roof of the net.

The timing and manner of this goal appeared to unsettle us and Peterborough went on to dominate the opening half, looking like a very slick team at times. Further goals were added at regular intervals, with the score at half-time standing at 0-4 and a complete rout in the offing. However, skipper Ali, doing his armchair general bit having been one of the players guesting for the 2nds earlier, obviously gave an inspiring team talk as it was a different game after the break. Our work rate and marking was substantially better than the first half, and maybe Peterborough eased off a bit with the game essentially won.

Whatever the reasons the only addition to the scoreline came from us, and it was a nicely worked goal. Stu went on a short dribble from the right channel to the top of the circle, which drew the defence to him to prevent a shot. With the way forward blocked, Stu slid the ball back out to Jack on the 25, who had the time to fire towards Rob, lurking wide of the near post; Rob deflected home (front stick).

A really good piece of hockey, which clearly demonstrated the value of the backwards pass as an attacking weapon, and not simply a grudging option to be taken only when all forward options have been eliminated, re-considered and eliminated again. Make an upfield move which commits the defence; outlet back to the support player who has the panoramic view and space to switch the direction of attack; play through the area vacated of defenders as the ball can be moved quicker than people can run. Simple.

We came close to bringing the match back to 4-2 when Rupert caught the Peterborough defenders waiting on a ball in, getting across the front post and deflecting but being unlucky to find it heading off target. At the other end, Peterborough had their chances, including another drag-flicked shortie that Lino somehow plucked out of the air with his stick. Excellent spatial awareness and reflexes. But no more scoring.

So, we won a half, at least. Unfortunately you don’t get points for that. However the attitude shown by the second half performance was a distinct positive, as at times this season heads have gone down and we have capitulated and that was far from happening in this game. Now to find the same work rate and desire, cut down on avoidable mistakes, and take our chances when they come and we might finally get off the mark for the campaign.