Okehampton

Columbines 0

Okehampton Men's

Seconds 6

THIS inter club friendly gave Okehampton Ladies their first outing of the season and the opportunity to experiment with a new formation.

The gentlemen played with vigour but a civilised restraint allowing a fun but testing game of hockey for all.

Whilst the ladies had control of the ball much of the time the game was dominated by attacking play from the men. Only excellent form from Sophie Whiteley in goal, ably supported by Amanda Smith at right back, stopped many of the attacks from becoming goals. It was only well into the first half that the first goal was scored.

Okehampton Men's Seconds were at their best when playing as a team rather than individuals and this began to show its benefits. The day must have been one of the hottest of the summer and all players found this sapped their energy.

A wicked high shot from Nick Luxton and a beautifully angled blast from Jake Lloyd were the classiest two goals of the six.

The goals came from Stuart Jarvis, Jake Lloyd (2), Toby Lloyd and Nick Luxton (2); the opportunities were many and most were either saved by the goalie playing a blinder or missed the goal.

Further friendlies will give both teams the opportunity to sharpen up their technique before the league proper starts.

The ladies eagerly await the opportunity of a return match when they have honed their approach and can make better use of their strengths as a team to achieve a better result.