Copthill U11 Hockey Squad v Brooke Priory - 13/11/2015

On Friday 13^th Copthill Year 6 Boys Hockey team travelled to Oakham to play a development match against Brooke Priory. Missing our goalie to injury, Brooke Priory kindly provided a substitute for us. The blue astroturf and flood lights added to the exciting atmosphere as Copthill took the game to Brooke Priory in the early exchanges. Against the run of play Copthill went a goal down following a fast counter attack and great inter-passing by Brooke Priory. The boys continued to show great commitment through the first half; Jude (Man of the Match) and Gabriel (captain) defending with skill and bravery, the midfield covering back and pushing forward in equal measure, and our Double-Max strike force coming close on a number of occasions. The opposition were always dangerous, as demonstrated by a well taken short corner that snuck into the bottom corner early in the second half. We re-focused and immediately put pressure and shots on the Brooke keeper, this time resulting in a well deserved tap-in for Max. Again we came so close to an equaliser, but as we chased the game in the final minutes we pushed forward (perhaps too much?!) and left ourselves vulnerable to a break-away and fine finish by Brooke Priory. 3-1 to the home side this time, but Copthill played with great commitment and skill, and demonstrated much potential for next term. Well done boys!