It was what we thought was a beautiful spring day. The sun was shining and the birds were singing. It was a perfect day for a perfect game of hockey for the 2s, or so they thought. We were missing Bobby, Browny, Riggers and Elliot so moral was high with such low squad numbers. With half the boys turning up after Baller and with a non hungover Joe , we then knew we were in for no regular game.

The boys headed to the pitch for a toasty warm up with keeper Joe having the best performance of shooting the 2s would see that day. We commenced for a jog where teacher’s favourite pet Jack was quick to remind everyone of Angus being late. After a quick game of roller ball with Stu demonstrating how to perfectly kick Jake in the nose and Jack probably reminding Angus to set homework for his kids at school the game begun.

The gents came out of the gates strong with some individual brilliance from Sully whose commitment was uncanny with him even crawling at one point to get the ball, a great tactic he’s picked up from his new born no doubt. The 2s were pushing forward where they were awarded a couple shorts however sadly none were converted with Star pupil Jack not taking this lightly. After a rather uneventful first half the boys listened to coach Browny turned player at one point where he had to be asked to leave the pitch by the umpire, who would then go on to change their tactics and agree to no more high drag flicks and the second half commenced.

Once again the 2s came out of the gates fast and were awarded a well deserved short corner. There was only one man for the Job that was of course the bottom right merchant that is Kav Snr. With Brownys message fresh on his mind he does what he does best and flicks it perfectly along the floor and sends the ball crashing into the backboard… or so was the plan. In actual fact he decided to flick it rather charitably right at the keeper where he made an easy save. 0-0 the game was still on.

With most of the possession we started to ease into our game until the 2s saw a defender run the ball from his half right up to their 23. With the pressure of the defence he sent a Hail Mary ball which was then sadly deflected in. 1-0.

With some lovely transfers , baseline runs and most importantly Kav Snr on the bench the boys found them selves with yet another short where the newly prompted star of the week, Jack knew it was his time to shine. With a lovely injection straight to Mr Price he got low and smashed the ball into the goal. The cheers of Brox were ringing around the stadium. 1-1.

But the boys knew they had to lock in. With not long to go however it seemed Bedford had found the Key to unlock us. The key was in fact just letting us play. Brox saw Angus have the ball at the top of the D where he had a diving reverse which soared wide. Jack sending a lovely ball into Kav Jnr where he had a Maradona like touch which was however with his feet not his stick. With the pressure on and in the dying embers we knew we had to get an upgrade so once again the Brox transfer was in full force where we saw the ball go to Kav Snr on the Baseline. Just like we discussed Upgrade,Upgrade,Upgrade he thought and that he did. Just in Bedford’s favour as he decided to attempt the baseline challenge and misses the ball.

Then with the full time whistle the game came to a close. With a disappointing draw the boys hope to go on next week against St Albans and get a crucial 3 points. MOM went to Head boy Jack Price and DOD went to the actual school boy Harrison.

Mens 4s vs Saffron Walden 7s - 2-1 loss

Goal scorer: Jason
Assist: Connor
Player: The team

A sunny first day of Spring at Mill Lane saw Broxbourne 4s take on Saffron Walden. Traffic problems meant several of the Brox squad arrived late but fortunately we had sufficient numbers to start on time. On-field Captain Andy H won the vital toss for the second week in a row and was happy to call it a day then as a job well done, but was eventually persuaded to continue with the match. The game started with Brox moving the ball around pretty confidently and the two sides appeared well-matched, with substitutions being ably managed from the side by Josh (there's a job available there Josh, if you're interested). We made things a bit hard for ourselves sometimes by being a bit panicky in defence, or taking a step or two too far before trying to pass and getting blocked, and paid the price for this when SW took the lead from a short corner flick which nearly took Kieran O's head off.
Broxbourne heads didn't drop, however, and with vocal support began to threaten the SW goal. We deservedly levelled the score after great work down the left from Connor, who delivered a perfect cross for Jason to stop and steer home from close range. Unfortunately SW restored their lead soon after when a ball was directed into the D to a SW player given a bit too much space and standing in front of Ryan, his deflection (luckily) trickling in past the stranded keeper.

Half-time followed shortly after and with words of encouragement from Josh, Brox began the second half confidently and determined to win the game. However, despite dominating possession and creating a number of opportunities we couldn't find the finishing touch and the game ended with a 1-2 loss. Scoreline aside it was a really enjoyable game and several spectators mentioned it was very good to watch, and an excellent performance all round against a team that beat us quite convincingly earlier in the season. There should also be a mention for the umpires, Jonny and KP, who did a great job.

Ladies 4s vs Saffron Walden 4s - 3-1 loss

Goal scorer: Frankie
Assist: Jo
Player: Frankie
Donkey: Rosie

Despite playing in glorious sunshine for once this was always going to be a tough match with Walden near the top of the table and us very near the bottom.
The opposition scored a very early goal but Broxbourne provided the perfect response just five minutes later with a through ball from midfield picked up by Jo, who then set up PoM Frankie for an excellent goal.
Both teams had a strong first half though Walden having the better chances though Kate was in fine form in goal yet again.
After half time Broxbourne defence repelled attack after attack with Ella, Ava and Callia all having strong games. Most of the forwards did plenty of running though Rosie did decide to have a brief lie down at one point earning her the Donkey award!
Despite all the efforts Broxbourne actually failed to earn a single penalty corner - a very rare statistic. Saffron Walden gained confidence as the game progressed, scoring two excellent goals late on to take the win.
Tough times ahead to maintain our place in this league but, as Winston Churchill said, We shall never surrender”.

Away Fixtures

Ladies 3s vs Bedford 5s - 1-0 win

Goal scorer: Hannah
Assist: Jess
Player: Tara & Lauren
Donkey: Lauren

It’s been a hard week for the club and team captains across all squads, with many teams lacking numbers. Thankfully, three games managed to go ahead, despite the other two being cancelled due to frozen pitches. Well done to everyone for their hard work in getting the squads out!

Among the most stressful moments was for Captain Hannah, who had her annual staff conference on the Friday night. As a result, she was picked up early by Tors and Lauren for the 11:30 pushback, enduring an hour-long journey while trying to recover from a late 2am bedtime.

The Broxbourne 3xi squad, although somewhat depleted in numbers, were grateful for the support of Jess, Ella, and Aaliyah, who stepped in to ensure the away fixture could go ahead. Their presence was invaluable during what turned out to be a tense, yet hard-fought match in hot conditions and meant that they had visited Bedford in two consecutive weekends!

The match began with a bit of apprehension from the team, as during the warm-up, Tors managed to hit the ball with some gusto straight at the umpire! Thankfully, no one was injured, and luckily, the umpire didn’t take the hit personally or hold it against the team — phew!

The team quickly shook off their nerves and got into the game, taking the lead within the first 3 minutes with a pass from Jess that was slotted past the keeper by Hannah. The team showed great shape early on, controlling possession and looking dangerous going forward. However, Bedford soon found their rhythm and began to dominate possession, putting Broxbourne under increasing pressure. Coach Matt was left holding his breath on the sideline, nervously watching as his team battled to maintain their advantage.

Despite Bedford’s sustained pressure, Broxbourne’s defensive unit stood resolutely strong, with some excellent tackles and clearances to keep the opposition at bay. Bedford’s repeated short corner opportunities, which almost reached double digits, were thwarted by solid defending and key saves from Emma. Some great work came from Kirsty, whose excellent runs up and down the pitch helped to prevent any dangerous link-up play at the edge of the defensive D. Her timely interceptions and tireless work ensured that Bedford couldn’t find their rhythm in the attacking third.

Tara was once again a key figure at the back, using her flat stick to clear the danger and stop any potential threats from getting through. Her defensive awareness and skill were crucial in keeping the scoreline level. In addition, Lauren stepped up to fill the top of the diamond vacancy with impressive composure, performing superbly in a role that demanded constant focus and positioning. Her contribution was essential in maintaining the team’s defensive shape and ensuring Broxbourne remained resilient under pressure.

Goalkeeper Emma also deserves special recognition for her composure in the face of fierce shots. Time and again, Bedford tested her with powerful efforts, but Emma stood tall, confidently making key saves and ensuring her goal remained secure. Her calm presence and sharp reactions were vital to the team’s success in keeping a clean sheet.

A special mention must also go to Grace, who was on the sidelines offering exceptional support and encouragement to the team. Her vocal support lifted the spirits of the players and proved crucial in motivating them during the more challenging moments.

In the last two minutes of the game, Tara received her second-ever green card in her playing career — the first being for telling the umpire they were wrong during a vets match. Although no one is exactly sure why she was given the card (it could have been for time-wasting or a late tackle), it meant that Broxbourne faced the final short corner of the match without her. There was a bit of tension as Bedford set up, but the team stood strong, and the danger was cleared superbly. Tara was able to return to the pitch for the final 20 seconds, just in time for the whistle to blow and bring the match to a close, earning broxbourne 3 valuable points from the match.

The dynamic duo of Lauren and Tara were undoubtedly the players of the match, with both players excelling in their defensive duties and maintaining a solid structure for the team. However, both Hannah and Tara managed to avoid the donkey vote at the last minute to Lauren, who was completely oblivious to the team's growing stress at the end of the game. Lauren, having missed the fact that Broxbourne were only 1-0 up, thought the team had scored two goals and was confused by the urgency of everyone around her in the final minutes. It made for an entertaining end to an intense match!

All in all, it was a match where Broxbourne demonstrated not just tactical discipline but also heart and determination to emerge from Bedford with a well-earned clean sheet.

Ladies 1s vs Bury St Edmonds 1s - 2-2 draw

Goal scorers: Bench x2
Assists: Finch & Em
Player: Bench
Donkey: Al

Broxbourne ventured north to take on Bury St Edmunds in an afternoon clash. After 6 days of travel and a couple of stops for “petrol” later, the team gathered in the changing rooms. Those who arrived late were subject to the wheel of death and faced their fate depending on the forfeit selected. My fate was decided by the wheel of death and despite stepping up today to support the team (and travelling across the country), I was awarded the honour of writing the match report. Stupid wheel.

Bench started her motivational speech just as Martha returned from a quick dip with Culford’s head boy, “alright, team - today is the day we’ve been preparing for. I’m finally fucking off and this is my last game”. The Ladies 1s give a roaring ovation and with that are pumped to get warmed up. Some more pumped than others, hey Meg?

After a solid warm up, Broxbourne started the game strong. Someone won a short corner (big up whoever it was), and star striker, Em, sorry no, not Em, Bench found the back of the goal. 1-0 at half time and the badgers were joined by another star player, Florrie. Despite the late join, Florrie was in no rush to join the pitch and took a leisurely stroll round the wal-led garden before finally putting her kit on to join us. Broxbourne started the second half strong with some great team play and solid transfers around the back (particularly me). Broxbourne won another short corner and who else do we call but our star striker (to be clear, bench not em) to put us even further ahead. 2-0. The rest of the game was irrelevant.

Player of the match went to Bench to make sure we could all maximise our points in the Broxbourne Fantasy League before her departure to find herself amongst the hippie cults in Australia. Safe travels Bench - make love not war. Donkey of the day went to Coach Al for taking renewable energy too far and paying £60 to fill up her car with air.

Broxbourne Ladies 1s head away again next week to take on Cambridge City 2s for another afternoon clash. Wishing you the best of luck and thank you for having me today ❤

Stupid wheel.

Mens 1s vs Bedford 1s - 5-3 win

Goal scorers: Mitch x2, Sam G, Toby, Matt
Assist: Matt x2, Toby, Ethan
Player: Sam W, Ed
Donkey: Paddy

Broxbourne 5 - 3 Bedford

After the previous weeks unfortunate loss to pelicans at home, Broxbourne traveled up to Bedford for the next instalment of the seasons games to turn over a new leaf and regain some form. The clear blue sunny skies gave a pleasant drive all the way to Bedford. Half the team enjoying the scenery too much it seemed as in drabs sorry men arrived in the changing room late. Frequent dart thrower Chris Hopson described the later part of the journey as painful, stuck behind the captain phil doing 15mph for the last 10 miles.

The game started late as a triumphant Bedford 2s team which Broxbourne struggled a 5-5 draw with last season, won 9-0 which put the fear into the Broxbourne team as they sat waiting for their turn. The slow turf made the warm up feel sluggish but the men lined up before the start of the game staring down their opposition. The game started well for Broxbourne, the new pressing style worked well and the Bedford defence were finding it tough to pick a way through to break the Broxbourne team down. The game was end to end, quick counter attacking play from Broxbourne was met by a stern Bedford defence. Bedford would strike first. Penetrating the D at the top leaving “Choppo” to live up to his name with a disastrous attempt at a tackle leaving the umpire with no choice but to give a P flick. Classic crisp packet hands got a stick to the ball but the ball was rooted into the side netting. The game wasn’t still open, all the defending Broxbourne were doing was tough. Everyone putting their bodies on the line. No more than Reggie Hopson who had half his face smeared in the wrong direction. An early retirement and a blood soaked shirt for Emma to wash. Broxbourne trying hard to get the next goal. Short corners being awarded gave us a chance, a drag flick low towards the keepers right side saw the injector Sam Weissen theatrically knee the ball into the goal and with a poor attempt of a celebration the umpire wasn’t convinced and disallowed the goal. The half time whistle was closing in, Broxbourne putting in all of their efforts to get the next goal and keep it level at half time. Enter Mr Chapman. A good passage of play from Ed house combining with Toby house who played the ball direct to Mitch who struck on his reverse again to level the sides. The half was coming to an end which kept tensions high, a poor attempt of a challenge from Charlie Fredderick left him binned at the break.

The half time break came, captain and coach both implementing on the importance of staying in the game and putting it to bed.
Broxbourne started well again, the pressure of the press was working well. A short corner came quickly and a cool routine found Mitch again. Acres of space and as much time as you like. Slotted the ball to the left of the keeper at waist height. Bedford didn’t let this get to them, they were keeping the Broxbourne players working hard. Entering the D but coming up with nothing. Until they gave the ball to paddy. Nobody’s really sure what was going through his mind when he flicked the ball directly off the back on purpose but the less said the better. Bedford converted with a drag flick to the keepers right hand side striking the back board. This didn’t deter Broxbourne, the game wasn’t over. The countering Broxbourne play came into effect again, a quick turnover saw Ethan fox pick up the ball and win a foul. Taken quickly moved the ball to Toby who was rolling around on the floor when Sam Groves had seen enough. Calmly taking the ball off of Toby’s limp corpse on the floor and nutmegging the keeper with a fine finish. Just like Ed house, the team like the chase. Allowing Bedford to equalise again with a quick play into the D and a deflection underneath the keeper. With time drawing to a close Broxbourne knew they had a matter of time to get the win. A short corner awarded was flicked low towards the keeper. A melee in and around the keeper ended up with the ball being knocked into the goal with the possibility of bodies being used instead of sticks. After much deliberation with the Bedford defence once again. The umpires decided to disallow the goal and re-award Broxbourne with the another short corner. Matt Menear steps up and had had enough of the disallowed goals for us and slammed the ball directly into the bottom corner. The game was not finished. Bedford heads rattled, supporters rattled and paddy rattled. Paddy decided to headbutt one of the Bedford defence, with both teams dazed Broxbourne went into the Bedford D and with another fine reverse goal. Toby house finished the scoring.

A huge effort from all of the Broxbourne men earned a massive victory in one of the closing games of the season. With half of our crippled party still back at the badger field, jubilations were shared over video calls for everyone to enjoy the darts song and beers in the changing room.

Coming up next weekend...

Saturday 8th March

Home Fixtures
10am - Mens 2s vs St Albans 4s
11.30am - Mens 3s vs Blueharts 5s
1pm - ladies 2s vs Shefford & Sandy 1s
2.30pm - Ladies 4s vs Chiltern 1s

Away Fixtures
10.30am - Ladies 3s vs Saffron Walden 3s
12pm - Ladies 1s vs Cambridge City 2s
12pm - Mens 1s vs Old Southendian 1s
12pm - Ladies 5s vs Bishops Stortford 8s
1.30pm - Mens 4s vs Southgate Adelaide 3s