Finally, against all the odds CSHC Men’s 6s stumbled into life against an equally new City M7s team, consisting of the anticipated potent mix of wise old heads and energetic youthfulness.

The home team made a lively start, keen to press home their obvious advantage in the skills department, but the defensive quartet of James P, Garth, Tendayi and Nick G kept them at bay until midway through the half when the City ‘new kids on the block’ struck. It felt like it was only going to go one way, but fortunately the home team couldn’t stretch their lead in the run-up to half-time.

As has now become the norm, the half-time talk seemed to once again bring out the best in us and we came out fighting, securing an early short corner which Rupert E buried in the back of the net. Despite some protestations from the City team that the ball was above the back board when it crossed the line, the umpires awarded the goal…and thankfully our umpire, Big Sean, showed great composure and restraint in not giving out any cards… Something to remember when next on the receiving end perhaps, Sean?

Both teams fought hard throughout the second half to grab the win and it was the home team who clinched it.

A closely contested and good spirited fixture enjoyed by both teams, however. We look forward the next one of our four scheduled clashes this season. A great example of how men’s hockey is alive and thriving in our great city!

MoM was our Namibian international keeper (I like saying that!) for some amazing saves that undoubtedly kept us in the game.

LoM goes to Wilco for a very late arrival, even by his own standards, and an early nomination for next week for not writing the match report!