IT was local derby day for the Okehampton and Tavistock hockey teams on Saturday. The first game of the season produced some good hockey, and also gave both clubs the chance to try out some new and young players.
Okehampton A . . . . . . . . . . . .0
Tavistock A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
The second team played first and had an even encounter.
Okehampton settled well and had the better of the early exchanges, the Tavistock keeper making some good saves when Okehampton did manage to breach the experienced Tavistock defence.
The young Okehampton side passed the ball around confidently but could not quite find the scoring touch.
The second half continued in a similar vein and a few positional changes kept the game flowing well as gradually Tavistock gained the upper hand.
With only a few moments to go Tavistock converted a short corner to win.
Okehampton . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Tavistock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
THE first teams followed on and Tavistock took the lead early in the half when Phil Edwards took his chance well from a short corner, which knocked Okehampton out of their stride.
The pace of the game picked up and Okehampton went on the attack only to be knocked back again by a second Edwards short corner strike.
However, Okehampton were determined to avoid the rout that they endured at the end of last season and finished the half strongly though 0-2 down.
Okehampton, concentrating on their game, worked hard to counteract Tavistock?s networking style of play and continued to push forward.
Winning the ball in midfield it broke for Mark Parsons who scored to bring Okehampton back into the game.
As the legs grew increasingly tired both sides had chances to score further goals, but both keepers were up to the challenges presented and no further goals were scored.
The games proved to be a useful workout for both clubs, with plenty to build on for the coming season.
l Starting on Saturday September 20 there will be hockey coaching sessions for all interested players over ten years old.
The sessions will be run by Okehampton club and will take place on the college all weather pitch from 10am-11am, costing 50p per person per session.
For more details phone Richard Jones on 01837 810167.