Oxford Hawks U18 Boys Vs Repton – 10.11.24

Following a comprehensive drubbing of local rivals, Reading, and the previous cup win, our amazing U18 Boys travelled 2hrs up the road to face Repton in the cup. With a fearsome reputation, and under the guidance of a former GB captain, there was a palpable excitement and anticipation in the fun-loving gang.

Wow – what a performance they put in.  With clear instructions – have fun, be creative (so long as there’s not a pass or a shot on!), and most of all play with intensity all across the pitch, the tight-knit team set about their work in the late afternoon drizzle in Derbyshire, supported by their adoring travelling fan-club! They played some outstanding, flowing hockey, and stood resilient in defence of their goal.  Despite foraging and penetrating runs from the midfield dynamos of Leo and Fraser, and the constant darting runs from the forward line of Oli C, Sam F, Felix and Ed C, the score remained 0-0 at half time.

The second half continued in knock-for-knock fashion, the crowd getting ever more excited and the play becoming a little more fractious and tetchy – both defences started to get on top, and there were a few more umpire-suggested sit downs (one for Bertie), mainly for the home side – they were certainly not used to being pushed onto the back foot, especially on their home turf!  The Freddies, Lazza, Ben C, Willo, Xavi and captain Bertie dominated possession, looking to release into the midfield and onwards to create the breakthrough needed.  When called upon, whilst rarely, Fabian again stood firm.  Two chances went begging for the travelling Hawks, the ball teasing the Repton goal line on both occasions.

In the closing minutes Repton snuck into the top left corner and somehow smuggled the ball across for a simple tap in, against the run of play really and frustrating for head coach Trystan.  1-0 down, with less than 2 on the clock.  That’s how it stayed, with our brilliant U18 Boys bowing out from the cup, but showing their talent and metal against probably the best-drilled and most likely winners of the cup.  Great to watch, great to be part of.  The pride of our club, for sure!