In a repeat of the same fixture from a fortnight ago, Knole Park U16 Girls took on Surbiton U16. A much changed Surbiton team saw them put in an excellent performance and they ran out 5-0 winners.
In the first half, a close first quarter saw the match start goalless. In the second period some out-letting errors hurt the Knole Park girls as they gave the ball away to the opposing centre forward who was able to capitalise. Once from a penalty corner and the other from open play. 0-2.
The second half was a similar story as the Surbiton defence held firm, their midfield were able to pass the ball well and they created chances in the forwards. Two further turnovers early in the second half and suddenly Knole Park were trailing 0-4.
The final quarter was much improved from the Knole Park girls; however it just wasn’t their day as chances came and went, including a diving save from the Surbiton defender on the line! In a bizarre run of play, Surbiton then scored their fifth goal and that’s how the match finished, 0-5 to Surbiton.
With lots to ponder, review and reflect on, the Knole Park girls now know the challenge that lies in wait this season! The girls left the pitch with a very positive ‘challenge accepted’ mindset! The new few weeks of training will be very exciting!
HC Knole Park U14 Girls put in improved performance against another strong Surbiton team
HC Knole Park’s U14 Girls lost 6-1 to a strong Surbiton team on Sunday as they continue their preparation for the season. A goal from Summer Knight-Thompson was the only reply to the six from Surbiton.
Knole Park played Surbiton for the second time in two weeks. Having lost two weeks ago the girls were motivated for another opportunity to play their high quality neighbours. In a more even match than the score line suggests it was the passing errors that cost Knole Park in the end.
In the first half, the first quarter ended goal-less as both teams had ‘half chances’ but couldn’t convert. The second quarter was more convincing for Surbiton as they piled on the pressure and scored two well taken goals. 0-2.
In a much better second half the Knole Park girls tested the Surbiton defence and goalkeeper a lot more and forced her into a number of good saves. Unfortunately in pushing for goal, the defence was left open and a couple of counter-attacks later and the girls were 0-4 down. Two more poor passes were pounced on by Surbiton to take the score to 0-6. However in a very positive finish to the match, one of the Knole Park chances finally reap a reward as Summer Knight-Thompson converted an excellent penalty corner strike.
The score line finished 1-6 to Surbiton. The game was a great spectacle and the girls should be pleased with their progress. The team now head back to the training pitch before an exciting match up with Sevenoaks Hockey Club on September 27th in their first league match.
