O55s super Wereys gain EH title with emphatic win
3 May 2025: After clinching the title in 2022, earning silver in 2023, and reaching the semi-finals in 2024, the O55s Wereys were super keen to add more silverware to the Redland trophy cabinet. On Sunday, the squad made the long trip to Nottingham Hockey Centre and whilst waiting for a 5pm pushback, they had time to soak up the buzzing atmosphere of finals day and draw inspiration from several top-tier masters matches before stepping onto the pitch themselves in the Shield final.
After a motivational team talk and dynamic warm up, the Wereys were fully focused and ready to execute Manager Anji’s clear game plan: to win. Facing an unfamiliar side in Hendon & Mill Hill, Wereys had no idea what to expect but the team wasted no time asserting control and continued to flourish throughout the first half. They attacked with force and pace, hunted down every ball, and piled on relentless pressure in the attacking D. The opposition struggled to gain possession and conceded several penalty corners, one of which resulted in Mainie tapping in the first goal at the left post after just eight minutes. Just four minutes later Fi carried a loose ball into the circle and dispatched a clinical shot from the right-hand side making it 2-0. Wereys continued to threaten the goal with Elaine, Petra, Carol, and Mitch all coming close on occasions. Their high press forced errors, one of which allowed Mandy to intercept a poor ball out and calmly slot home a third goal, giving the team a commanding 3-0 lead at half time.
More of the same was needed after the break, and to remain focused with no room for complacency. Tireless work from the midfield engine room of Jo, Sally, Heidi, and Captain Cath ensured Hendon & Mill Hill didn’t gain any momentum up the pitch. Mainie, Terri and Tracy held firm across the defensive line and transferred the ball with precision and composure. Another penalty corner saw a cracking strike from Cath find Mainie again on that left post to take the tally to four. Not yet done, a fifth goal ensued from a goalmouth melee, Fi getting the final touch and an emphatic 5-0 victory was sealed. Wereys were dominant from start to finish, I’d like to say the game ebbed and flowed but it didn’t … so much so that goalkeeper Jo didn’t touch the ball all match!
After a season marked by inconsistent availability and hampered by injuries, this gold medal triumph was a well-earned and fantastic way to end the campaign. A special mention also goes to Claire and Viv, who despite playing in previous rounds, were unable to make the final but were still very much part of the squad. Finally, a huge thank you to the wider Green Army for all the support, love, and encouragement throughout our journey. Over and out from Manager Anji!
