Tavistock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Okehampton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
TAVISTOCK Men?s Hockey Team?s first game of the new season was a friendly against local rivals Okehampton.
Tavistock played a flawless first half which saw some impressive passing moves. They were their usual solid selves in defence, with Alastair Brown and Roger Costello especially strong.
Tavistock took the lead midway through the first half, with Tom Honey finishing in style after some good build up play between Way and Lovett.
Tavistock doubled their lead at the start of the second half with captain Kevin Lethbridge scoring with a ferocious short corner strike.
Okehampton pulled a goal back through Richard Jones.
Although now two leagues below their rivals, Okehampton continued to press Tavistock and had a chance to equalise from a penalty flick, but this was well saved by keeper James Pitts.
The save seemed to spur on Tavistock, who extended their lead to 4-1 following two quick goals from Nick Andrews playing in his 33rd consecutive season for Tavistock.
This proved to be a good run out for Tavistock who are preparing for life in South 2 following their promotion last year.
Tavistock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
OPMs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
TAVISTOCK?s second friendly was against OPMs with Tavistock forced to make a lot of changes including the whole of the defensive line.
Tavistock started much the brighter with some excellent play from new players Chris Wilson and Tim Ellis down the left flank and Ricky Bellard and Phil Honey down the right. This created space and opportunity for the front pair of Dom Lovett and Tom Honey up front.
Tavistock took charge and gained the lead following a solid strike from Lovett. OPMs were themselves creating a lot of chances but were thwarted by Edwards, Lethbridge and some outstanding play from Tavistock goalkeeper Neil Bradley.
Tavistock were caught on the break which led to an equaliser from OPMs, but they regained the lead following an outrageous effort from exciting youngster Dom Lovett, who is already proving to be a valuable asset.
Tavistock deservedly scored a third from a reverse stick shot from Nick Boot-Handford. Late in the game Tavistock?s early season fitness showed, allowing OPMs to score two late goals to earn themselves a draw.
If anybody is interested in joining or would like more information about hockey in the Tavistock area contact captain Kevin Lethbridge on 01752 210657.