The final weekend of pre-season for Old Hales Hockey Club last weekend saw a mixed bag of results from the four fixtures played but lots of positivity emanating from team captains as the club continues building towards the start of the league season.

Men’s 1st XI vs Redditch
The Men’s 1s entertained reigning league champions Redditch at KEFW in their final pre-season match. A solid performance from the team was rounded off by C. Palmer converting a penalty flick that he had won after being fouled by the opposition keeper. Both teams had chances to take the lead but sadly the match had to be abandoned part way through the second-half due to some adverse weather conditions.
Result: 1–1; goal from C. Palmer (match abandoned)
Player of the Match: None

Ladies 1st XI vs Redditch
A disappointing final match of pre-season for the Ladies 1s against a good Redditch side in terms of the result but it did not reflect the performance of individuals within the team. Captain Ella said post-match that “We didn’t deserve the result. We played as such a strong team. Hopefully this will set up for the league starting next week”. She further added “It is great watching the girls put the things we do at training into a game. It was so good!”
Result: 1–4; goal from M. Kelly
Player of the Match: M. Kelly

Ladies 2nd XI vs Redditch
A complete performance from the whole team saw Ladies 2s win convincingly against a team that were pushing for promotion from the league last year. The dynamic duo of N. Walder and K. Nye were too much for the Redditch back line to handle whilst R Charlton lead the (almost) impenetrable defence. Captain Jess said that this was “One of our most complete performances on a hockey pitch, with everyone working hard for each other. We are hoping to continue this form into the start of the season.”
Result: 4–1; goals from N. Walder (2), E. Hughes, Grace S
Player of the Match: N. Walder

Men’s 3rd/4th XI vs Leicester City
A match against new opponents from the East Midlands for the final game of pre-season for the Men’s 3s. A strong start saw a meandering run and wonderful finish from JB to start his tally for the year. He then had the chance to double the lead a few moments later when he was gifted a chance from a yard out but failed to convert. A gritty display then ensued as Leicester had the majority of possession and crated a lot of chances but couldn't breakdown the defensive line. Captain Steve was quick to compliment the determined display and in particular Player of the Match P. Woodall “for being, quite frankly, ridiculous in goal.”
Result: 1–0; goal from JB
Player of the Match: P. Woodall

League matches will commence next weekend with all teams keen to start the season with a victory.