Winchester 2nd XI 1-2 Andover 1st XI

20th January Match Report

Winchester 2nd XI 1-2 Andover 1st XI - by Dan Allen

Andover travelled to Winchester for a highly anticipated match up that delivered everything it
promised this weekend at Kings School. Both sides fired up and looking to get an edge up on this
heated rivalry. Both sides started at pace and the ball was slung from end to end with abandon, both
sides looking sharp and aggressive. Tempers flared early and both teams were instructed to calm
down as Hacker caught a tackle to the waist after skilfully embarrassing Winchester’s experienced
centre back.

Defences proved the stronger for the first quarter, Andover boasting a strong squad and plenty of
fresh legs. McClenaghan making an outstanding save from a short corner drag flick before
Winchester broke the deadlock. Their centre forward finding space around the edge of the D, a
strong backhand shot well directed in from the penalty spot. Advantage Winchester.

Andover moving up a gear pushed and pinned Winchester back to their own back line, Allen pressing
Winchester’s young left back into a desperate pass back to his keeper. Allen again pressing and
winning the ball before finding Brooks who’s flick hit the final defender on the line. Bridge stepped
up for the flick with no doubts on the outcome. The half ended 1-1.

The second half saw more of the same fast paced, exciting hockey. Former Andover member
Thomas joining Winchester to stabilise their back line however his well known aggression and
attitude played into Andover’s hands later on in earning himself a yellow card. Finally seeing the
advantage Andover utilised their extensive bench, making fast subs and keeping the pace high.

Man of the match Roberts expertly stripped his counterpart of the ball before sending a long hard
pass up the field to Allen in space. Driving into the home side’s D Allen held off the last two
defender’s before finding Robert’s who’d caught up to support the play. Robert’s finding Anthony on
the base line who’s first touch beat the keeper and crossed the ball for Allen to steer home.

Winchester weren’t without reply but Andover were relentless in their defence, the whole team
getting back behind the ball and anything that slipped through only getting as far Allmark before
being shut down. As the minutes ticked down Winchester looked to have crossed the line if not for
Bridge heroically diving backwards to sweep the goal line clear. Time eventually ran out for the
home side and Andover celebrate their well deserved win.

Squad: McClenaghan, Bridge, Allmark, Jenkins, J Trott, Daley, Hacker, Griffiths, Scowen, O’Sullivan,
Goacher, Allen, Anthony, Brooks, H Trott, Roberts (MoM)

Coach: James Sordillo
Manager: Andy Bridge