South West one

Bodmin 4

TAVISTOCK began by allowing Bodmin into the D in the first minute. 

Eight minutes in and a Bodmin player shot, losing his stick in the process. As Tavistock players ducked beneath the flying stick another Bodmin player scored – the red and blacks expected a free hit but the goal was given.

Six minutes later Fletcher in goal for Tavistock solidly blocked a penalty corner shot, but Bodmin got a stick on the rebound and the ball rolled over the line giving the visitors a 2-0 lead.  Oke captain Josh Walker, playing alongside his brothers Jake and Dominic, brought Tavistock back, getting in behind the keeper to put them on the score sheet.

After an erratic first half, Tavistock took the battle to Bodmin, all but camping in their half, but they could not score.

Bodmin countered in the 50th minute playing the ball around the Tavistock D before hitting the backboards, highlighting poor Tavistock marking.

 Tavistock continued to apply pressure but an inspired 50 metre through-ball from Bodmin’s midfield was deflected high by the their striker. Fletcher did well and reached the ball but was terribly unlucky when backspin on the ball took it over the line.

The 4-1 scoreline to Bodmin was harsh for Tavistock, but highlighted a pressing need for an effective penalty corner routine as seven went unconverted. Players are still being drawn out of position, and ignoring simple passes, but overall the team feels poised to become a real force – a good win involving plenty of passing is what’s needed.