Wereys O55s wrap up their season in style
4 May 2024: Wereys hosted the Wales O60s team for a friendly training match in preparation for their upcoming international season. We played five quarters – now there’s a mathematical conundrum to start with!
Wereys started brightly applying immediate pressure on the Welsh defence, and early into the game an accidental Welsh foot on the goal line gifted Wereys with a penalty stroke, calmly dispatched bottom left by captain Cath. The quarter ebbed and flowed until a lapse in marking presented the perfect opportunity for Wales to level the score.
The next quarter was, let’s say, a bit of a disaster. We won’t dwell on it but Wereys seemed to be enjoying the sunshine and the idea of free potatoes, rather than focusing on the hockey. Two more goals from Wales saw the score 3-1 at half time – although not technically half time when playing ‘5 quarters’!
But my word what a difference in the third quarter, possibly down to a ticking off from manager Anji. Wereys found their stride, stepped up on their players, and worked together as a team demonstrating some lovely linking play, solid defending, and pacey attacks. Ultimately they were rewarded with several short corners and two more goals through Mandy and Carol.
The fourth quarter again saw improved performances from both sides, end to end play but no further goals added to the tally.
Into the final quarter, goalkeepers removed, 11 out field players, and everything to play for. To quote words from Mitch, Wereys “matured as the game went on” and they certainly battled hard for Bristol/English pride. Fi eventually sneaking the ball across the line for a 4-3 victory to the home side.
A fantastic end to the O55s season, polished off with lovely Mexican food and plenty of cocktails afterwards. Well done and thank you to everyone that has contributed to the squad this season – players, umpires, managers and supporters. That’s a wrap!
pic credit: JB
more pics here pic credit Alex Rotas Photography
