The Junior 1s lacked their usual goal scoring form at the Orwell Park tournament. This turned out to be the difference on the day, when the team played well as a unit and did some great things… apart from score enough goals despite having the chances.
The team started slowly, after a late change in the tournament schedule meant they had to play in the first round of matches rather than the second. Despite this we played some good hockey against Brandeston Hall. Getting stuck in channels was to be the downfall of Woodbridge in the game as turnovers led to two goals against the run of play. Alfie Franklin made some double saves in goal, but we failed to clear off his pads, allowing Brandeston to capitalise. Woodbridge lost 0-2.
Next up we took on the formidable Orwell Park. Having lost to them last week, the boys had a point to prove. Showing much more determination than before, we closed Orwell Park down to limit their attacking options. We were denied a few times by good goalkeeping and the teams had to settle for a very exciting 0-0 draw.
Next was a strong Culford team. Woodbridge had the better of the most of the match but again was frustrated by Culford’s defenders and goalkeeping. The best chance of the match came when Hugo Thomas cleverly flicked the ball over the goalkeeper as he went to ground, only to be denied by a defender steering it away. We could not convert the resulting penalty corner. Again a very exciting 0-0 draw.
Woodbridge then faced Barnadiston, the winner destined to claim the Plate. Half way through the short match Barnadiston scored the best mini-hockey goal ever, and you can only applaud such talent. A 30 plus yard diagonal aerial, collected on the bounce, and smashed into the sidenet on the far post. Well played boys. Woodbridge came back strongly, now shocked into action, and Hugo Thomas scored a spectacular goal of his own. However we relaxed for a minute and conceded an uncontested goal soon after. In the hunt to draw level again Barnadiston, used the space left behind, to score a third to seal a deserved win.
The Woodbridge boys did themselves proud with some good hockey, as well as representing the school impeccably off the pitch too. Our thanks to all the parents who came to support again on a cold afternoon.
