Old Silhillians M3 2 - 2 Stourport

Well it was another thriller at the Steve Tabb Arena on Saturday, as Simon Russell and his band of merry men entertained the juggernaut that is Stourport. It was a changed side, with youth and experience coming into the side, and it was a bright, sunny day - reminiscent of Autumn in the Ardeche - sipping from a cheeky Bordeaux as you sat by the River Rhone.

Stourport started quickly, and the Sils defence was under as much pressure as a belt during post-Christmas lunch. Three short corners in the first 5 minutes and bang - 1-0 to the visitors. Those with faint hearts feared the worst, and indeed it felt like being in Rome as Attila approached in 410 AD. However, the defence stood firm, and the old heads at the back (that was most of them) stood firm. Sils began to grow into the game as Ollie, Jimmy and the combative Dan Jones started to cause problems. The right side was very productive and Sils had several chances and a smattering of PCs. However, it remained 1-0 at half time, and as fluids were replenished, inspiration was delivered from the skipper. There was feeling of optimism.

The second half saw our best hockey of the season - and to be fair Stourport were always a threat. The youth were causing chaos to the Stourport defence and after one attack, Sils were awarded a penalty flick. This was despatched by Dom Higgins with all the ruthless acumen one associated with the French Revolution and Madame Guillotine. This led to a frenetic spell where both sides attacked with vigour. Jim made some good saves, and Mark, Clutz and Mr A were solid. The skipper was also having a great game; and it felt like a mortal blow when Stourport scored again to retake the lead. However, though we may be small, we are fierce and Sils were rewarded when Jones scored the second Sils goal to restore parity. There was still time for Sils to lose a player when Jones was carded for a stick tackle that actually landed in Meriden. To our credit, the defences held, and it was a deserved 2-2 draw.

So many players played well, and it was a difficult job to assign MoM. In the end, it was the redoubtable figure of the senior Barton who was awarded it. The feeling is that things are going well. Next - we travel to the UoB to play one of their many sides. It promises to be a challenge.