South West one

TAVISTOCK A 2

PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY THIRDS 1

TAVISTOCK needed a strong showing at Mount Kelly.  University sides improve noticeably as the season progresses, so Tavistock wanted to quickly stamp their authority on this game. 

Instead, University won a penalty corner in the first minute after four simple but effective passes. Osborne blocked the initial strike but the subsequent scramble saw the ball bobble over the line, putting the jubilant University ahead.

Tavistock did not hold their formation, leading to a breakdown in passing. Players tried to beat opponents in the middle of the pitch and lost the ball. Despite stronger individual skills, Tavistock were being given a lesson in basic passing by the visiting side. Fortunately for the home side, captain Josh Walker scored five minutes before half time, getting a final touch on a messy play inside the University D, but at half time it was anyone’s game.

Tavistock started well in the second half, but lost their shape again as players drifted towards the play instead of holding positions. Nevertheless they were stronger and pressure on the University grew.

The University goalkeeper kept them in the game as Tavistock failed to convert any of seven penalty corners they won.

Fifteen minutes into the half another untidy scramble ended when Solly Kurtzman finally forced the ball over the line to put Tavistock ahead. University could not respond and the match finished with a fortunate 2-1 win for Tavistock who need to work on keeping a formation so they can pass freely and create an effective penalty corner routine.