4/10/14: Although this match remained goal less it was anything but a dull 0 – 0 draw with both sides putting on a fine display of attractive attacking hockey.
Mendip had much the better of the early exchanges and settled into their passing game right from the off.
The defensive four of Andy Flint, Rich Penn, Paul Floyd and James Lovell began knocking the ball about with supreme confidence, switching the play across their back line, keeping possession well and launching attacks down both wings. However, despite some good spells of pressure, scoring opportunities were limited to a number of short corners, all of which Mendip spurned as the misfiring forwards failed to capitalise from their set piece routines.
The students certainly played their part and were a constant menace when going forward themselves but the Mendip rear guard was always on hand to snuff out the danger and throughout the 1st half Leigh Taylor’s goal was rarely threatened.
The trend of the 2nd half followed in a similar vein to the 1st with both sides swarming forward in numbers looking for that all important breakthrough. However both defensive units were well in command and the forwards were largely toothless as each wave of attack was nullified.
In such a tight game, one goal was probably going to be enough to seal victory and late on in the half Mendip held its breath when a golden opportunity presented itself to Oli Beechener, only for the youngster to flash his reverse stick shot inches wide of the mark.
This was an intriguing contest and both sides played with flair and fluency. However, the defence ultimately won out in the end and it finished with honours even.
Mendip man-of-the-match was centre back Rich Penn who put in a totally assured performance and was always in the right position to intervene with a majestic display of well-timed tackling.
The Team was: Leigh Taylor, Andy Flint, Rich Penn, Paul Floyd, James Lovell, Oli Beechener, Andy Wood, Josh Sutton, Will Lawton, Liam Young, Steve Smith and John Lippiatt.
Andy Flint.
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