South were looking forward to their home game against BSE. A quick look at the league early morning saw the Kiwis beat GB convincingly and take the series two-nil. There was a bit of confusion over the points system but Dr Google was on the spot to state four points for a try, two points for a conversion or a penalty kick and one point for a drop goal.

Knowing the points system, South knew what they had to do. BSE started strongly with their key playmakers in the middle and high press keeping South in their own half and weathering countless short corners. However, South also strung passes together and moved nicely up the field, even having shots on goal although not on target. It was nil-all at half time and the score line represented the evenness of the game.

BSE started the second half as they had wanted to play in the first half, by playing in South’s territory, and went for a forty-twenty from the push back. Unfortunately for BSE the new rule had not been introduced into hockey. Both sides were playing well with continuous end to end hockey and several shots on goal but to no avail. A special mention to both keepers, keeping the ball out and managing to stay warm on a cold afternoon. Unfortunately, South conceded two goals in a short period of time which changed the game plan. BSE were content for a half court press and kept numbers behind and South had to score to get back into the game. South managed to claw a goal back and kept up the intensity to try for more. However, with time running out South were struggling to get the ball past the keeper and couldn’t convert the after buzzer short corner to hold BSE to a draw.

BSE played well and although it was an entertaining game, South unfortunately came away with no points. But a lot of positives and hockey was the winner. Match teas were pizzas. Also, well done to our twelfth man, Graham, who proposed to his lucky lady in Thailand last weekend. Give a big kiss to Leo, Singha and Chang from all of us!