It wasn't meant to be, but the team should be so proud of the journey!
On Sunday, May 5th, East Grinstead's Men's 2nd XI took to the Lee Valley turf for the final of the England Hockey Tier 2 National Cup against Leek 1st XI.
After two hard weeks of training and preparation, the team felt fully prepared for the challenge that lay ahead.
The first 5 minutes were dominated by Leek, who had a few opportunities to take an early lead, but it was the first short corner of the game that opened the scoring after a deflected flick beat Edgerton in goal.
In the following 10 to 15 minutes, East Grinstead had much of the possession and started to settle, resulting in a few short corners. However, none were converted despite some very good saves by the Leek goalkeeper, including a double save to deny Collins from close range. A quick counterattack from Leek and a fortunate bounce of the ball made it 2-0 to Leek just prior to quarter time.
The second quarter was much of the same, with chances and possession being shared by both sides. Yet again, Leek showed their quality and clinical finishing after a East Grinstead did well to breakdown a short corner, the ball finally fell to an unmarked Leek player at the back post, making it 3-0 at halftime.
At halftime, Dan Faulkner, Jordan Torilla, and Wes Jackson reminded us of the game plan and what we had to do to get back into the game.
Despite a strong start to the second half, creating opportunities and winning short corners, East Grinstead could not get past a strong defence and goalkeeper. Another Leek corner and another variation brought about the fourth and final goal.
The fourth quarter saw some end-to-end play, with East Grinstead throwing caution to the wind by taking off Edgerton to try and create more opportunities.
The result was 4-0 to Leek HC. Congratulations to them on a very good performance.
The team wants to thank the whole club for their support throughout the cup, and to all the supporters who brought energy and passion to Lee Valley, you were incredible!
The team will be back in the hunt again; watch this space!
Martyn Collins - Men's 2s
