Opening day defeat for men's hockey 1s

Playmaker Walsh leads by example

The game started badly for York, as within five minutes they were already a goal down to a team that looked like they were going to have the edge in fitness and quality. But with Ali Morgan as the ever reliable ball distributor in midfield, York managed to stick to their passing game and take control of the game. It started to look more and more promising for York as they dominated in possession and from what started as a great break for Billy Walsh in midfield turned into an equalising goal for York. Ed Watson’s reverse stick shot was deflected masterfully by James Hume to go between the keeper’s legs and make the score 1-1.

Going in at half time, York had managed to turn the game around and were confident they could continue to control possession and go on and take the win. Sheffield Hallam though showed why they had been playing at a higher standard last season in the second half, cunningly adapting their game from a half-pitch press to playing a full-press. York found themselves being constantly held in their own half of the pitch and started trying to force balls that weren’t on. As lack of fitness became more apparent as the game went on, Sheffield Hallam found themselves breaking through more and more and put three more goals past us, ending the game at 4-1!

Although in the end it was a comfortable win for Sheffield Hallam 1s, there was plenty of encouragement for Captain James Hume to take from the game. Reflecting on the match Hume said: "There are plenty of things for the team to work on, but its still early on and with this new team I think there are lots of positives to take with us into the new season." York now look ahead to this weekend to build on Wednesday’s performance and look to post their first win.

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