Newsworthy

25/09/08 – Men's EH knockout First game Wokingham Mens 1's get a walkover and are set to play their next game on 26/10/09. More info on EH website
25/09/08 – NEXT SOCIAL 18th Oct from 1930hrs, at the club, theme is COWBOYS AND INDIANS!! Just 2 a ticket – BARGAIN! Please see your captian for your ticket. DJ, Food, Late License and Games.

Match Reports

All Captains...

...have been asked to either write a match report or nominate someone to do so. All match reports should be written using the only template and also sent to our External Relations officer - Natalie, (ext_relations [ at ] wokingham-hc.co.uk) so they can then be sent onto the local paper.

Click here to enter your report.

Reports

06/03/2010 - Mens 2s (5) - (1) Ashford 3's

Scorers: Cameron Dunlop x 2, John Barlow, Huw Baveystock, Mike Amor
Man of the match: Cameron Dunlop
Donkey of the day: John Barlow

This week Wokingham 2's entertained second bottom Ashford 3's at Fortress Cantley. Wokingham's defence was breached inside the first 30 seconds of the game as Ashford started much the sharper side and they had chances to extend their lead but Scott Rogers in goal managed to deny them with some excellent saves. As time went on Wokingham hit their straps and both the Baveystocks Huw and Jack were able to exploit the space out wide. As Wokingham pressure grew the goals began to come. Cameron Dunlup netted his first 2 goals for the seconds and John Barlow rounded off a good team move to score Wokingham's 3rd.

After the restart Ashford came back strongly and played much better than a team in their league position would suggest. As Ashford's frustration grew Wokingham secured the points when Cameron slipped the ball to Huw to tap home for his first goal for the team. Wokingham added a fifth when Mike Amor was allowed to strike a short corner and he finished with aplomb. However, his calls to strike more in the future fell on deaf ears.

The match finished 5-1, the scoreline may have been somewhat flattering, but it was good to see the youngsters put in such a good performance, a promising sign for the future.

06/03/2010 - Mens 1s (4) - (3) Bracknell

Scorers: Dom Tallent, Justin Brown, Gladys 2
Man of the match: Mossy
Donkey of the day: Ali Dance

Wokingham made no mistakes in beating there local rivals Bracknell on Saturday in a seven goal thriller which ended 4 � 3 to Wokingham. The first goal come early in the first half with a great finish from Wokingham�s own top goal scorer Dom Talent but Bracknell were quick to reply with a equaliser. Next to add to the score sheet was a player who is no stranger to match winning goals Mike Baylis with a powerful yet accurate strike beating the keeper to make it 2 � 1. The game was really heating up now with neither team willing to back down but Bracknell were now going to suffer another blow by the hand of one of the long standing veteran players at the core of Wokingham HC, Justin Brown. His wonderful bottom corner strike was just what Wokingham needed to stop Bracknell in the tracks.

Unfortunately this is where the Bracknell�s strikers came into their own answering back with one quick goal just before half time and one more just after to make it a nail biting 3 -3! It looked to be a draw from then on with both Bracknell and Wokingham�s defence digging in but in the dyeing moments Wokingham won a well deserved short corner. This was soon put away by again my Mike Baylis getting his second of the day and sealing the victory for Wokingham! The last seconds of the game were played out by some skilful stick work near Bracknell�s base line by Dom talent.

�The last minutes of that game seemed like the longest of my life!� said one of Wokingham�s defenders and man of the match James Moss which sums this game right up, Thrilling to the end and a great result for Wokingham.�

27/02/2010 - Mens 1s (6) - (3) Ashford 2s

Scorers: Dom Tallent (2), Barry Thomas, Mike 'Betty' Bowyer, Ali Dance (2)
Man of the match: Ali Dance
Donkey of the day: Mike 'Gladis' Baylis

Wokingham mens 1st XI were looking to improve on a very average performance of last week against Sunbury as they hosted Ashford 2s at Cantley Park.

Before the game had even started Wokingham were at a serve disadvantage; Mike 'Betty' Bowyer had pulled out the day before with a reoccurring injury. Captain Si Vive was confident in his team and felt that a last minute call up from the 2nd XI was not needed, however this was little shortsighted as 10 minutes before the actual game the captain received a call from his centre midfield, Mike 'Gladis' Baylis informing him that his delayed flight had only just touched down at Gatwick. With only 10 men to start the game Wokingham were going to be seriously hampered even if they were playing a team that were rooted at the bottom of the table. Vive had no other choice but to turn to spectator and Men's 3rd team defender Craig Johnson to assist.

The game started very slowly for Wokingham, only 4 minutes in they were a goal down from a well worked Ashford move upfront. Shortly afterwards Wokingham were awarded a penalty corner for a stick tackle in the "D". In Bowyer's absence, Barry Thomas stepped up to the mark and scored with a clinical "bouncing bomb" that was topped and into the corner of the goal: 1-1. Ashford then got ahead again through Dom Tallant. But again the Wokingham defence did not clear their lines and Ashford took the lead for the 3rd time in the half. By now Wokingham were confident in their ability to play flowing hockey and a well worked move from the left defense through midfeld, Barry Thomas and Dave 'Sarah' Badger up to Neil Bennett, who drew the Ashford defence, passed to a static Tallent who calmly slipped the ball to Ali Dance on the right to finish what proved to be the best move of the half. 3-3

At half time Wokingham knew what the had to do. Stand in striker Johnson was by no means a handicap to the team and made some excellant runs up front, but Mike 'Betty' Bowyer, who came down to watch, bravely donned his kit and stepped into defense which now looked far more solid. The second half was much more open affair with both teams looking to take the initiative. It was Ashford that struck first with a great shot from a penalty corner which clipped the top of the back board, but to their dismay the goal was disallowed; not for the lifted shot but because the ball was not stopped outside of the D. Wokingham knew they had got away lightly and started to press. Si Vive was enjoying the freedom of his new position of centre midfield and got himself into a number of goal scoring opportunities, but it was another penalty corner that put wokingham ahead: the injured bowyer powered in a shot to the bottom left of the goal. Wokingham had their tails up, and with Mike 'Gladis' Baylis now on the pitch, scored another goal from Tallent making it 5-3.

Finally, the ever active, and man of the match, Ali Dance put home Barry Thomas rebound from a tight angle sealing the game at 6-3.

Wokingham are going to have to play alot better and be more clinical next Saturday as they visit Bracknell for the local derby.

27/02/2010 - Mens 2s (1) - (3) Leighton Buzzard 1s

Scorers: Jack Baveystock
Man of the match: Dave Morgan
Donkey of the day: Terry Pollard

Wokingham took the nice long trip up to Leighton Buzzard and every single car managed to get lost and we started 20 minutes late with only 9 players. It was not long before we were up to our full compliment of players and when the game got going it was clear it would be a close game between two mid table sides. Wokingham struck first when Cameron Dunlop slipped it through for Jack Baveystock who lifted his effort over the keeper. Leighton Buzzard's formation was causing Wokingham problems, with them constantly have a man extra in the middle of the park and it was not too long before they were level, when slack marking let them in for the equaliser. Scott Rogers then made a good save at his near post to keep the scores level up to the break.

In the second half Wokingham were unable to make the final pass to the strikers, which invited more pressure on their defence. Dave Morgan and James Moss played particularly well to limit the opposition's chances. With 15 minutes remaining Leighton Buzzard went ahead, Mike Amor failed to clear the ball and Leighton Buzzard took full advantage to score past Scott. Wokingham pushed for an equaliser, maybe a little too hard as Cameron and Mark Peel both picked up green cards. With time running out and Wokingham players pushing high up the pitch, Leighton Buzzard struck on the break to seal the game. At least next week we are at home so we should be on time.

20/02/2010 - Mens 3s (4) - (0) Bicester 4th XI

Scorers: Brad Read, Chris Richman (3)
Man of the match: Chris Richman
Donkey of the day: Matt Turner

There are great mysteries in the world today such as why do people read The Daily Mail, who buys the stuff from JML and why did the Death Star orbit the planet in Star Wars instead of blowing it up as well as the rebel base.

The real mystery at the moment is how the hell did we lose our only game of the season to Bicester? They came to Cantley with the same group of players, they tried to play the same type of hockey and were even wearing the same colours but instead of the 4 � 3 defeat they inflicted upon us in Oxfordshire they were thumped far worse than the score line suggests.

In truth this was one of the best team performances of the season with no one having a bad game and the whole team contributing to a dominant performance which left Bicester relying on long balls to a front two who were more isolated and on their own than Ashley Cole in his marital home.

20/02/2010 - Mens 2s (4) - (3) South Bucks 2s

Scorers: James Gibbs, Matt Taylor, Jack Baveystock, Mark Peel
Man of the match: Ciaran Ryan
Donkey of the day: Matt Taylor

Wokingham 2's had to deal with poor availability this weekend but still managed to register a victory over South Bucks.

Wokingham started terribly, playing down to the oppositions standard, with too many long balls and giving possession away too easily. South Bucks took advantage of this and took an early lead. Wokingham improved after the first 10 minutes and were soon level. James Gibbs scored with a good strike from the edge of the area. Anthony Dean was then fouled with an open goal in front of him and a penalty flick was awarded. Matt Taylor stepped forward and put away the flick to give Wokingham the lead. 2-1 soon became 3-1 when Ciaran Ryan's good cross was turned in by Jack Baveystock.

The second half remained an open affair and South Bucks were gifted a way back into the encounter when Taylor played a poor cross pitch ball which was intercepted and scored by South Buck's forward. As South Bucks pushed for an equaliser Wokingham scored on the break. Ciaran again provided an excellent cross which left Mark Peel with an easy finish. Instead of settling for this Wokingham decided to push on and South Bucks struck again to make for a tense final 5 minutes. Wokingham comfortably saw out the remainder of time. However, it was a less than convincing performance.

With only 6 league games to go, Wokingham remain in 5th, next up are 6th placed Leighton Buzzard.

20/02/2010 - Mens 1s (2) - (2) Subury

Scorers: Simon Vive, Barry Thomas
Man of the match: Bainsey
Donkey of the day: Mike Amor

After turning in some improved performances in recent weeks, Wokingham travelled to Sunbury confident of repeating their last victory over this opposition.

The away team started well, pinning Sunbury back to their own half with a performance seething with purpose and intensity. Wokingham�s short pass and move game was dominating the opposition and cutting holes in their defence; several moves seeing the likes of Barry Thomas and Neil Bennett either denied a goal by the �keeper or by inaccurate finishing.

Wokingham finally made their dominance count; a short corner was converted when Thomas sent an inch-perfect shot towards Captain Si Vive, who deflected the ball in. The away side finished the half 1-0 up, but frustrated they should have scored many more.

Sunbury came out hard in the second half, and rattled Wokingham�s composure; they began winning the midfield battle and putting pressure on the Wokingham goal. Short corners and chances tested Wokingham�s defence, with Justin Brown and a man of the match performance from�keeper David Baines doing well to repel them.

Sunbury finally made the breakthrough when Harry Weald lost his man, who was allowed to run into the D unopposed to finish past the onrushing Baines. The home team didn�t take long to take the lead; Weald losing the ball in his own half and this time Mike Amor losing his man who was able to convert from close range.

In danger of losing a game they had mostly dominated, Wokingham went at Sunbury with renewed vigour, winning a series of short corners. They eventually levelled the game from one of these when Thomas, perhaps tired of Mike Baylis�s elaborate but ineffective efforts to walk the ball into the net, simply blasted a shot at the goal that had the �keeper well beaten.

Both sides pressed for the winner, but a hard fought match eventually ended with points shared. Wokingham need to get back to winning ways for the last quarter of the season.

13/02/2010 - Mens 2s (1) - (2) Sonning 3s

Scorers: Matt Taylor
Man of the match: Mossy
Donkey of the day: Gordon

Wokingham 2's knew Sonning would be tough opposition after losing to them twice this season and both times by 1 goal. Wokingham's reshuffled back line struggled early on with Justin Brown at sweeper making a number of last ditch tackles. However, it was not long before Sonning broke through and took the lead. After this set back Wokingham began to move the ball around well especially James Moss and Huw Baveystock (making his 2's debut)and they created some good chances with Mark Peel most notably hitting the post. Matt Taylor and Anthony Dean were both denied by good saves from the Sonning goalkeeper. These saves proved pivotal as Sonning struck again to extend their lead, to take a 2-0 advantage at half time.

As Wokingham pushed to get back into the game tempers began to flare and Sonning were especially fortunate to keep all 11 players on the pitch. Chances came and went for both sides and as time was disappearing Wokingham scored through a powerful short corner strike from Taylor. This proved only to be a consolation as time ran out. A disappointing result for Wokingham given the chances they had. They will be hoping for better next week against South Bucks.

13/02/2010 - Mens 3s (3) - (1) Witney Badgers (5th XI)

Scorers: Chris Richman (2) Mark Higginson
Man of the match: Ian Hopkinson
Donkey of the day: Chris Richman

Now I know that some of the other sides in the club have similar problems but a 130 mile round trip for an away game is a pain in the ass no matter what way you look at it.

It becomes an even bigger pain when you get there and it�s freezing cold, when the games starts 20 minutes late because the oppo who probably only have to travel a few miles are late, when they play a first team player as a ringer and then are allowed a goal by their umpire which was smashed in by a stick above shoulder height. Grr it�s enough to make you hate the countryside.

This actually probably became our toughest game of the season. We went one down for only the second time this season and things were definitely not clicking in front of goal, balls being kicked into the net and chance upon chance going begging.

However it is the mark of a side when they get a result even though they have played badly and that is what happened in this case. Ok we should have scored a whole load more and thrashed Witney like they deserved for having the temerity to take the lead against us but the win was the most important thing here and that was what we got.

13/02/2010 - Mens 1s (1) - (3) Wycombe 2

Scorers: Betty
Man of the match: Betty
Donkey of the day: Amor

06/02/2010 - Mens 2s (6) - (1) Eastcote 4's

Scorers: Dom Tallent x2 ,Anthony Dean x2, Pete Tailby, James Moss
Man of the match: Anthony Dean
Donkey of the day: James Gibbs

After last weeks narrow loss Wokingham were looking to bounce back against Eastcote. The match started in an open fashion with Eastcote hitting the post and Wokingham going close on a number of occasions. It was Wokingham who took the lead when Dom Tallent finished well with a shot on the turn. Wokingham continued to miss chances and James Gibbs was guilty of the worst of them, missing an open goal! Wokingham extended their lead when Anthony Dean got on the scoresheet and the half ended 2-0, although it could have been much more or both sides.

The second half started badly for Wokingham and Eastcote struck following some poor defending. The team were determined not to let another 2 goal lead disappear after last week and Wokingham soon had a perfect opportunity to extend the lead again with a penalty flick. However, Dom missed with a disapointing effort. Minutes later Wokingham grabbed their third goal when Dom deflected Mark Peel's effort over the line. The final 10 minutes saw Wokingham add 3 more goals, Anthony his second of the match and Pete Tailby and James Moss also getting on the scoresheet.

A good win and it was nice to see the goals go in that our play deserved. Next up is Sonning who currently sit in 2nd place.

06/02/2010 - Mens 3s (7) - (0) Newbury & Thatcham 4th XI

Scorers: Hugh Baveystock (2) Brad Read (2) Chris Richman (2) Cameron Dunlop

06/02/2010 - Mens 1s (2) - (1) Tring

Scorers: Neil Bennett, Barry Thomas
Man of the match: Neil Bennett
Donkey of the day: Gladys

30/01/2010 - Mens 2s (2) - (3) High Wycombe 3's

Scorers: Mark Peel, James Gibbs
Man of the match: Mike Rogers
Donkey of the day: Scott Rogers

Wokingham 2's began this week's encounter against High Wycombe knowing that they were more than capable of defeating the current league leaders. The early play suggested it would be a game of few goals as both defences played well to limit the number of opportunities. Wycombe did have the best chance of the first half when their striker narrowly put a reverse stick effort wide. So both teams went in goalless at half time.

The second half began in a similar fashion and the returning Scott Rogers in goal was forced into action making a good double save. However, it was Wokingham who struck first when a mazy run and cross from John Barlow was slotted in by Mark Peel with a reverse stick effort. Wokingham soon doubled their advantage when a long 'through ball' from Matt Taylor was collected by James Gibbs, who beat the last defender and whacked it in. With only 15 minutes remaining Wokingham just had to keep their composure to seal a good win. It was not to be as Wycombe struck back rapidly. Jack Baveystock was disposed in his own half and Wycombe's striker made no mistake with another reverse stick effort. The scores were then soon level as Wycombe played the ball around nicely and the move was finished well. With Wokingham now on the ropes, Wycombe went for the killer blow. Instead of putting up much of a fight Wokingham gifted a decisive goal away. Wycombe played a long ball into the area, with Wokingham shouting to Scott to leave it, he kicked it straight back to the Wycombe player who could not believe his luck and he duly smacked it straight back past Scott. With barely anytime remaining Wokingham were unable to muster an equliser and were left deflated at the final whistle after throwing away a victory. Wokingham remain 5th in the league.

30/01/2010 - Mens 3s (5) - (1) Henley 5rd XI

Scorers: Brad Read (4)

30/01/2010 - Mens 1s (1) - (4) Amersham & Chalfont

Scorers: Neil Bennett
Man of the match: Bainsey
Donkey of the day: Mossy

After last week�s disappointing result against Aylesbury, Wokingham were looking to get back to winning ways with the visit of Amersham & Chalfont. The home team started well, controlling possession and limiting Amersham to a few counter-attacks. Strong distribution from Si Vive, Mike Baylis and Harry Weald helped the forwards to make life uncomfortable for the Amersham defence, and decent chances to score were being created. Unfortunately the chances weren�t taken, and it was Amersham who took the lead when a drag flick from a short corner deflected in off the �keeper�s arm.

A tight half ended 1-0 to the visitors, and Wokingham knew they would have to step up their game in the second half. Sadly this failed to materialise, and it was the visitors who began to dominate the game. Wokingham were losing the 50:50 balls too frequently, and Amersham began to break through the defence with alarming frequency, finally scoring a second with a controversial above-height volley into the net.

Finally, Wokingham shook off their malaise and took the game to Amersham, utilising strong running from Ali Dance down the wing to fire some balls into the Amersham �D�, one of which was eventually turned in by Neil Bennett. It was game on with Wokingham back in the fight, until a scandalously poor umpiring decision awarded Amersham a penalty flick for a legitimate reverse stick tackle at the top of the �D�. The flick was duly converted, and Wokingham heads dropped, allowing Amersham to eventually score a fourth, despite a man of the match performance from the returning �keeper David Baines.

Big improvements will be needed before next week�s match against high-flying Tring.

23/01/2010 - Mens 2s (4) - (0) Aylesbury 2's

Scorers: James Gibbs x2, John Barlow x2
Man of the match: John Barlow
Donkey of the day: Terry Pollard

After a nice long break of over a month Wokingham 2's travelled up to Aylesbury expecting a very tough match against the side sitting in 2nd place. Wokingham played some attractive flowing hockey in the first 10 minutes and took the lead from James Gibbs when he scored with a shot from inbetween his legs. Aylesbury came back strongly and dominated the rest of the first half as Wokingham's shape deserted them. However, the returning Dave Baines made some impressive saves along with solid defending from Dave Morgan and Gordon Farquharson help to keep Aylsebury at bay up to the break.

Wokingham had a slight reshuffle at half time and John Barlow moved up front and he was soon on the scoresheet not once but twice! Both goals coming after good runs into the area and two good finishes from acute angles. With Wokingham now having a 3 goal cushion more space was available for Wokinghams young wingers Ciaran Ryan and Jack Baveystock to exploit. Wokinghams 4th came from a cross come shot from Ciaron that was smartly deflected in by James for his second of the match. Aylesbury went in hunt of a consolation goal but Wokingham were not to be denied their first clean sheet and biggest win of the season.

The 2's impressive away form will be put to the test next week when they take on table toppers High Wycombe.

23/01/2010 - Mens 1s (1) - (2) Aylesbury

Scorers: Simon Vive

12/12/2009 - Mens 2s (2) - (1) Harrow 1s

Scorers: Matt Taylor, Anthony Dean
Man of the match: Dave Bennett
Donkey of the day: Neil Bennett

Wokingham 2's were keen to put on a good show at home before the Christmas break. As has been the way throughout the season Wokingham dominated possession but lacked cutting edge in front of goal. Early opportunities came and went for the home team but it was Harrow who scored first. Neil Bennett mis-placed a pass backwards and the Harrow striker went through on goal and smashed it home. Wokingham were far from their best with far too many poor passes. However, Wokingham were then awarded a penalty flick after Harrows goalkeeper was deemed to have committed an offence. Matt Taylor scored the flick to bring the scores level. 1-1 at half time.

Wokingham started very badly in the second half and were lucky to not go behind again when Harrow missed a penalty flick after Dave Bennett fouled the Harrow striker with the goal at his mercy. After this let off Wokingham went back to creating chances and they continued to miss them. Anthony Dean was especially guilty of a shocking miss (open goal - 1 yard out!). With Wokingham now playing the better hockey Anthony soon redeemed himself to give Wokingham the lead. The Harrow keeper had gone walkabouts and Anthony made no mistake this time, pushing the ball in. John Barlow came close with a good effort rebounding off the post. With time disappearing Wokingham were able to see out the final minutes and record their 6th victory of the campaign and in the process they moved up to 5th in the table. Maybe 2010 will be better for scoring more goals.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to all from the Men's 2s.

05/12/2009 - Mens 2s (3) - (4) Newbury & Thatcham 2s

Scorers: Peely x2, Mossy
Man of the match: Matt Turner
Donkey of the day: Matt Taylor

The 2's travelled to 3rd in the table Newbury & Thatcham for their penultimate game before the Christmas break. Wokingham started desperatly conceding two early goals following poor defensive work which made it very easy for the opposition's midfield and attack. Following these early setbacks Wokingham finally got going and started to create some opportunities, the best of which fell to John Barlow only for him to blaze wide with only the keeper to beat. Meanwhile at the other end Matt Turner was being kept busy and made a number of good saves. However, it was Wokingham who struck next when Pete Tailby's cross was neatly turned in by Mark Peel at the near post. With half time looming Wokingham switched off and Newbury & Thatcham made it 3-1 when their striker slotted one past Matt.

Wokingham knew they were still in this game and after a few tatical adjustments Wokingham were soon back level. The first coming courtesy of James Moss following in from an initial short corner strike from Matt Taylor. Peel then brought Wokingham back level following another short corner when he turned in from close range. With Wokingham now playing good hockey and with Newbury rattled their only seemed one winner. Instead Wokingham were hit on the break and again found themselves behind. With Wokingham chasing the game again Newbury were able to control the tempo and had a number of chances to make it 5 with numerous short corners. Matt Turner continued to keep them out and he deservedly won the man of the match award. With time running out Wokingham were unable to create many more clear cut chances and Newbury & Thatcham held on for the victory.

28/11/2009 - Mens 2s (0) - (2) City of Oxford 2s

Man of the match: Mike Bowyer (just about filled the captains shoes)
Donkey of the day: Jack Baveystock (close run thing with Peely though)

Wokingham went in to this weekends game against City of Oxford in a confident mood after 3 straight wins. Wokingham dominated possession throughout the match and created numerous chances but the finishing let the team down with Anthony Dean, Mark Peel and James Gibbs all missing opportunities. Only after a goal line save from Mike Bowyer from a powerful short corner strike kept the scores level at half time. Although that was Oxfords only chance of the first half. Wokingham knew they would have to start converting their dominance into goals. The second half continued in a frustrating pattern and Oxford struck with a short corner after a foot was missed by the umpire. Wokingham came back strong and had a golden opportunity to equalise when Peel only had to pull a ball back for Jack Baveystock to score, instead he flicked it at Jack and he blasted over from a yard taking the ball on the volley. It was not to be Wokingham's day and in the last few seconds Oxford grabbed a second with good finish from their striker leaving Matt in goal with no chance. The match ended 2-0 to Oxford, with them scoring 2 of their 3 opportunities and Wokingham missing far too many. Wokingham will have to finish alot better if they are to get anything out of next weeks opponents Newbury and Thatcham who are 3rd whilst Wokingham have slipped to 6th.

21/11/2009 - Mens 2s (3) - (1) Ashford 3s

Scorers: Neil Bennett, Anthony Dean, Mark Peel
Man of the match: Dave Bennett
Donkey of the day: James Gibbs

The 2's recorded their third win on the spin away to bottom of the table Ashford. Wokingham made a sluggish start and found themselves behind early, conceding from a short corner. Wokingham then woke up and started to play some half decent hockey. Neil Bennett drilled the ball in from the top of the area and Anthony Dean made it 2-1 with another fierce strike from a well worked short corner. Wokingham continued to dominate possession and as half time approached Wokingham made it 3. James Gibbs unselfishly passed to Mark Peel who finished well from close range.

Wokingham came out slowly in the second half and invited some pressure onto them. However, they weathered the Ashford attacks without Matt Turner in goal having to touch the ball. Wokingham went back on the front foot and continued to create more chances but the goals were not going in. The match finished 3-1 to Wokingham. Dave Bennett picked up the man of the match award for some good attacking play from right back.

14/11/2009 - Mens 2s (2) - (1) Leighton Buzzard 1s

Scorers: Jack Baveystock x2
Man of the match: Jack Baveystock
Donkey of the day: Matt Taylor

Wokingham 2s took on Leighton Buzzard looking for their first home win of the season. In gale force conditions Wokingham started very well and created plenty of chances but the striking trio of Gibbs, Peel and Sansome were unable to convert Wokinghams early dominance into goals. Leighton Buzzards' keeper was called upon to make a number decent saves to maintain the equilibrium between the two sides. Wokingham were provided a golden chance to take the lead when Dave Sansome was taken down with an empty goal in front of him. Captain Taylor stepped up to take the penalty flick. However, it was well saved low down to the keepers right. Just as it looked like both sides would be going in level at half time Jack Baveystock came up with a goal, lifting the ball over the keeper from close range after good build up play from James Gibbs.

Leighton Buzzard came out of the blocks a lot sharper in the second half and the scores were soon level after a short corner strike. Play then became very scrappy and the next goal would be crucial. It was Wokingham who got it as Neil Bennetts ball into the 'D' was deflected into the top corner by Jack for his second goal. Wokingham then lost centre midfielder Dave Bennett through injury when he was struck by a Taylor clearance on the hand - resulting in 3 stiches. As the half progressed Wokingham had the better chances but could not extend the lead. Wokingham had to hold on for the last few minutes, which they just about managed. The 2's are now 5th in the table and travel to Ashford next week.

07/11/2009 - Mens 2s (4) - (1) South Bucks 2s

Scorers: James Gibbs x3, Mark Peel
Man of the match: James Gibbs
Donkey of the day: Terry Pollard

Wokingham 2's maintained their 100% record on their travels by recording their 3rd win out of 3 on the road. Despite starting with only 10 men after Terry received a mysterious text telling him the game was off, Wokingham started brightly and closed down the play well and limited South Bucks to only a couple of chances with their extra man advantage. I would like to say it was Terry's arrival after 10 minutes that sparked Wokingham into life - but that would be a lie! Neil B and Jack Baveystock were enjoying lots of space down the flanks and the 2's started to cause a few problems for the South Bucks defence. Unlike previous weeks Wokingham were extremly clinical in front of goal with James Gibbs scoring two belters, one from an extremly acute angle. Peely added the 3rd with a tidy flick over the keeper. At the other end of the pitch Matt Turner made some outstanding saves, most notably an excellent double save with the ball ballooning onto the cross bar. However, South Bucks did get goal following a powerful short corner strike that went straight through Matt. 3-1 at half time to Wokingham.

The second half was very open as the game went from end to end. The quality of play was not great with many sloppy passes by both sides. It was Wokingham who grabbed the next goal with another powerful effort from James to seal his hat-trick and man of the match award (he was somewhat happy about both). There was still time in the game for South Bucks to hit a post and for Matt taylor to clear off the line. The match ended 4-1, there could have been more goals but a win is a win.

Next week the 2's take on Leighton Buzzard who are one place ahead of them in the table looking to register their first points at home this season.

31/10/2009 - Mens 2s (0) - (1) Sonning 3s

Man of the match: Tim Lavers
Donkey of the day: Brett Powis

For the Men's 2's it is not so much of a case of 'Fortress Cantley' it is 'come and get 3 points Cantley' for the oppo. Wokingham knew that this would be a close game as they lost to Sonning 3-2 in a pre-season encounter. Wokingham again started well but as in recent weeks could not get the goal that their play deserved. The first half contained very few chances. However, Brett Powis (playing his last game for Wokingham) somehow managed to play a backwards aerial, much to amusement of both sides and supporters. 0-0 at half time.

A few dubious umpiring decisions wound Wokingham up and Sonnings match winning goal came from one. A lifted ball into a Wokingham defender was not blown and Sonning went onto score from the resulting play. Dave Morgan was shown a yellow card after being deemed to have fouled on purpose! Wokingham had chances to equalise with Sammo having the best of them. In the dying seconds Anthony Dean intercepted play, put through Sammo who's short was well saved by Sonning's keepers head and the ball bounced back to Matt Taylor to slot home, only for a defender to somehow block the effort. A draw would have been a fair result. However, some inspiring goalkeeping and wasteful finishing are costing the men's 2s at present.

25/10/2009 - Mens 1s (2) - (3) University of London

Scorers: Betty, Tina

we were all hung over and it showed. very slow out of the blocks and University of London scored early on reacting quickest to a rebound off the post and having several penalty corners. Bainsey got injured and Gladys had to go in goal.
second half we came out stronger and Betty scored with a short corner strike. Then a great team goal starting from defence found tina and harry who linked up for Tina to strike and put as ahead. Gladys made some great saves but as the game wore on our attackers gave the ball away cheapy and some sloppy defending gifted the oppo a penalty corner which was expertly converted - unsavable. Within 2 minutes they took the lead breaking down the left and shooting into the corner past our inexperienced keeper.
final score 2-3 loss.

24/10/2009 - Mens 2s (2) - (1) Eastcote 4's

Scorers: Brett Powis, James Gibbs
Man of the match: Pete Tailby
Donkey of the day: Matt Taylor

Wokingham 2's travelled to Eastcote in search of 3 points after two successive defeats. Wokingham started the brighter side and caused the home side problems with their slick play especially down the flanks with Neil Bennett and Pete Tailby. Chances came and went for both sides in the first half with James Gibbs missing a sitter and debutant Jack Bavestock seeing his flicked attempt well saved.
After the restart Wokingham broke the deadlock with Brett Powis slotting home after a well worked short corner. James then added a second after a quick break caught the Eastcote defence out. Wokingham then invited pressure onto themselves and their standard of play dropped. Cards then came into play with Wokingham collecting 3 greens and a harsh yellow to Jack as the frustration of how Wokingham were playing grew. With 10 minutes remaining Matt Taylor made a poor pass and Eastcote struck to deny Scott Rogers a clean sheet. Wokingham held on to record their second win of the season and moved up to 7th in the table. Next up is Sonning 3's who narrowly beat the 2's in a pre season friendly only a few weeks ago.

24/10/2009 - Mens 1s (4) - (1) Tring

Scorers: Sarah x2, Ali, Dom
Man of the match: Sarah
Donkey of the day: Dom

we played very well, retaining possession for long periods and pressurising them to win it back when necessary. sarah was man of the match and had a blinder showing great commitment to get his 2 goals. dom squandered several chances.
Bainsey had a top game, making several good savs to deny them and betty was solid at sweeper making some great tackles. Dom's goal was a tap in after some good work from Barry. Ali's goal was a deflection from a Gladys ball fired into the D. They scored from a short corner strike that Bainsey perhaps should have saved but it was just a consolation.

17/10/2009 - Mens 2s (0) - (1) High Wycombe 3's

Man of the match: Tim Lavers
Donkey of the day: Marl Peel

The mens 2's took on a young High Wycombe 3's team knowing that this would be a tough game with Wycombe winning their first two games and scoring 14 goals in the process. Wycombe started the better side moving the ball about well, but they knew that they would be in for a tougher game with Wokingham creating chances of their own with the best of them falling to Anthony Dean. High Wycombe were presented with an excellent chance to take the lead when they were awarded a penalty flick after a ball struck Matt Taylor on the line from a short corner strike. Wokingham protested that the ball never came out of the D and lost a player after substitute Peely made an unwise comment. Scott then saved the flick, 0-0 at half time.
The second half followed a similar pattern and chances were at a premium. Peely was shown a second yellow card of the game, again for not keeping his mouth shut. Wycombe then stepped on the gas and put more and more pressure on the Wokingham defence that had all been playing superbly. Wycombe scored with only a couple of minutes remaining after bundling home after Scott's initial save to a short corner. Wokingham were unable to hit back despite Anthony having another chance. A cracking team effort. However, Wokingham need to be more clinical in front of goal.

10/10/2009 - Mens 1s (3) - (1) Aylesbury

Scorers: Dom Tallent, Barry Thomas, Harry Weald
Man of the match: Jon Minchin
Donkey of the day: Barry Thomas

After a dissapointing last match Wokingham came out in high spirits.
The newfound motivation led to an early goal wonderfully taken by Barry that left he keeper flailing helplessly on floor. An incident involving an Aylesbury stick and Gladys face lead to an early substitution and a volenteer for kit washing, Wokingham managed to hold onto this lead until the end of the first half with strong work from Simon Vive and Betty.
Wokingham came out confident in the second half and with good work from Barry created an opening which Harry swiftly disbatched, the hardworking midflied applied more pressure to the Aylesbury squad which couldn't cope under the strain and led to goal from Dom to make it 3-1. Mossy was still struggaling with the introduction of the 5m rule, which unfortunately led to a yellow card just before the end of the second half. The final score was 3-1, hard earnt and well deserved by the wokingham side.

18/04/2009 - Mens 1s (5) - (2) Bracknell

Scorers: Sarah, Andy, Terry, 2 others

Testing testing, anyone wanna right a match report?

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