Nick Wright previews this weekend's clash between York City Knights and Hull FC
Alex Reid looks at whether the once ever-present appearance of English clubs in the later stages of the Champions League is set to become a thing of the past
Craig Dobson looks at QPR's decision to sack Neil Warnock and replace him with Mark Hughes
James Tompkinson reviews an excellent pre-season victory for the York City Knights against Yorkshire rivals Leeds Rhinos
The 1st XI, despite a slightly wobbly start, had a terrific season, winning their BUSA league ahead of fierce rivals York St. John. However, the team’s poor form was highlighted in the North Yorkshire league. Going into the second half of the season, they were struggling to stay clear of the relegation positions. But due to the team’s tenacity and ability to play well under pressure, they recovered to finish in a hard-earnt 5th position.
Apart from these two leagues, there are also two more key fixtures that the hockey club looks forward to. There is Varsity against York St. John, and the big clash against Lancaster at Roses. Varsity is overshadowed by Roses, but nevertheless is still a good opportunity to make it clear to York St. John who is at the better university! The men’s team provided an intriguing clash, having drawn twice with York St. John in their BUSA league. But they made no mistake of ensuring victory, beating them 4-3 in the dying minutes of the match. It was a great game to watch and only added to the huge overall victory that York took in Varsity.
In last year’s Roses, the Men’s 1st XI were playing against a Lancaster side ranked a league above them. The tie produced one of the most exciting clashes of the tournament, ending in a 2-0 home victory. The 2nd XI followed suit with a more than comfortable 4-0 win, whilst the 3rd XI allowed Lancaster to claim back a little respect, losing 1-4. There was further success for the 1st XI in the indoor fixture, posting another 2-0 victory, but the 2nd XI unfortunately had to settle for a 1-4 loss.
This year’s hockey President John ‘Bravo’ Huntingdon said, “Roses was obviously a high point of the season for us. A combination of solid teamwork and some of the best individual play that I have seen at York brought about some stunning wins”.
This year the club is looking to continue its success and try to cut down on the inconsistencies in the team’s performances that had been haunting them last season. The 1st XI will be hoping to get off to a better start this year, so that they can top the Premier Division in the North Yorkshire league. The 2nd XI will be looking to grab promotion this year after just failing to achieve it last season.
The 1st XI have lost some key players from last year. Captain Dan Westley and Andy Hook both played massive roles in defence, with Dan’s great reading of the game ending many of the opposition’s attacks. It will be hard to find a replacement for right-back Andy Hook, whose piercing attacks forward always caused problems for the opposition defence. There is also the loss of attackers Oliver Dupenois, Fergus Shields and ‘Wales’ all leaving. Crucially however, Ali Morgan and Billy Walsh will still be present this season and will be aiming to carry on as the heart of the midfield. No doubt a few freshers will pop up to catch captain James Hume’s eye, and will be important in contributing to the success of all the teams.
Away from pitch is where the hockey club really thrives though. As aptly stated by new president Huntingdon, “Roses and promotions were mirrored by a fantastic tour to Prague, thirty weeks of incredible socials, the Christmas and the Presidents' weekend balls, and the East Grinstead festival this summer. I honestly don't think one could expect more”. The hockey club will be looking to carry on in a similar style this season.
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