Oxford Hawks Men’s 6’s vs Witney 3s – 28.09.24

The M6's had a tough first home league fixture last weekend vs Witney 3's who have been strengthened across their club with an influx of players meaning a youthful and strong looking side took to the pitch. In contrast, Hawks were unable to field a number of development players due to school commitments so had a slightly aged if not vastly experienced mix of players.  Hawks started well but struggled to keep hold of a fast moving Witney midfield and attack and Witney took an early one goal lead.  Undeterred Hawks played some good hockey and managed to level things up with a short corner goal by Alex Day which dribbled across the line, but a goals a goal…Unfortunately a few turnovers and some sloppy play led to Witney scoring two more goals before half-time.

The second half saw Hawks regroup and whilst we were no longer overrun in midfield the soft turnovers continued and Witney went 4-1 up. The old legs were tiring and youngsters Alex Day, Mason Randall-Cox and Finn Heide were doing their best to cover but Witney added a further two goals before a late resurgence saw some positive inter-play and Ben Hudson added a very deserved second goal for Hawks. Match finished 6-2 but it was far more competitive than the scoreline would suggest. Alex Day and Paul Poulter joint men of match. Thanks to junior keepers Willian Goodfellow and Damon Trigg who shared the game and both played well and weren’t short of action.