Devon two

OPM 2

TAVISTOCK came out fighting against Old Plymouth Mannamead-ians. After ten minutes Andrews collected a ball on the left  and pulled it across to Venton, who  passed a defender and slotted the ball in to give Tavistock the lead.

The ball moved quickly from end to end. Tavistock’s defence, marshalled by the unshakeable Gott, was tested by young, skilful forwards. After 22 minutes an OPM attack created an accurate back-stick strike, leaving keeper Osbourne no view as it hit the backboard. Another break minutes later looked dangerous until Kirwin plucked the crucial pass out of the air with impressive hand-eye co-ordination, rescuing Tavistock. It was 1-1 at half time.

In the second half, Kurzman ran onto several through-balls up front, distributed them effectively and looked dangerous. A well-earned penalty corner was switched to Russell, whose shot was on target. The keeper saved, but Venton was all over him, picking the ball off his pads and scoring. Minutes later Russell made a strong run up the left. Andrews collected his pass and, as the defence closed on him, nudged the ball to Venton who passed the keeper to give Tavistock a 3-1 lead.

Tavistock’s defenders, Gott, Honey, Campbell and Gunther dug in as OPMs attacked all-out. Tavistock used defensive substitutes well — Whitehead, Cull and Maxa all impressed. With nine minutes remaining, the visitors built up to a shot. Osborne saved but was unlucky when the rebound fell at the feet of OPM striker Vincent, who pushed it in from just feet away. Tavistock held on however, earning an exciting 3-2 win.

Man of the match Hugh Venton’s hat-trick is providing the edge Tavistock B has needed. Gunther was outstanding, denying the opposition room to manoeuvre.

Overall, the younger players showed that Tavistock hockey club has significant young talent coming up through the ranks.