Saturday 10th February 2024 was a monumental day for Cambridge South.  Our seventh men's team was born and to honour this we'll have seven facts about this match...

1. This was the first ever outing of a seventh men's team for Cambridge South Hockey Club!  The club has steadily grown over the last 20 or so years.  At the turn of the Millenium there was just one men's team, one men's vets team and one ladies team (running as a separate club).

2. This match saw debuts for three of our junior graduates who still train with the U14s: Jesse, Etienne and Nuwan.  All three played well and looked a total fit in the team.  They should not hesitate to believe in themselves at this level of senior hockey.  In fact, it's no accident that all three were voted MoM.  Well done, Gents.  Keep this up and in won't be long before you attract the eye of higher teams.

3. Our chairman Mr Greaves notched up his 200th goal for the club!  An outstanding achievement!  Well don, John!  Despite joining Cambridge South even before history books were invented - come on, does anyone even know who the previous chairman was?! - John is in his prime with his best days ahead of him.  Here's to the next 200 strikes!

4. Newmarket, captained by former Southerner and hockey legend Mr John "JDB" Benedikz, were a mostly young side boosted with a couple of calm old heads.  Thanks to Andy, Keiran, George, Baz and Howard for each taking a role to balance the numbers.   

5. The match finished 3-3, which was a fair reflection on the balance of play.  Goals were split between the old guard (South) and young guard (Newmarket) although both sides forged plenty of chances from an array of players.  There was some high-quality hockey played at both ends for attack and defence alike.

6. Special mention to the umpires - Sandy and Daniel - who looked the part and controlled the match well.  Both are new to umpiring this season but learning at an exceptional rate.  Developing umpires is critical as South grows.  You are a credit to the club!

7. The next match is on 24-Feb at 3:30pm (St Mary's at 3:30pm) against Bishops Stortford.  Please declare availability here and Sandy will be in touch on Spond.  Hope to see many of you then for more of the same!

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