New team, new season, even a new pitch, this was truly a new dawn for Ross Men's Hockey Club as their recently formed second XI strode onto the John Kyrle High School Pitch last Saturday to play their first competitive match.
The opponents in this friendly fixture were Newport 2nd XI, and such was the strength in depth of the Ross squad that they could even loan the visitors a couple of players (wily old hand Wilem Haagen and energetic new boy Christopher "Chalky" White).
A number of the Ross side were making their debut appearances for the club: brothers Adam and Sean Crouch, Kieran Bran, Nick Bricknall and Dan Marsh. All showed considerable promise, but it was probably David Skyrme who made the most impressive showing; a pacy right back with accomplished stick skills who can tackle and pass.
It was also good to see Gareth Bowen back in a Ross shirt, and he quickly established himself as the lynchpin of the midfield, and also Mitch Greenman brought his characteristic "je ne sais quoi" to his performance in goal.
There were also some familiar faces, of course, from the team that won promotion from the N4 Hereford and Gloucester League Division Two last season; players who have chosen to focus on the grass roots development of the club rather than join the elite group who will soon be experiencing the glamour of Division One. James Adamson, the captain, was as industrious in midfield, as Edward Peck, his deputy, was nonchalant in defence, alongside Tim Jones. Up front, Richard Harbottle was a constant threat in a game that Ross largely dominated, winning eight short corners to the visitors' three. It scarcely mattered that Newport scored once in each half without reply from Ross.
Meanwhile the Ross 1st XI beat Abergavenny 8 - 1.
Thanks are due to umpires John Setchfield and Pete Hughes. Also a special acknowledgement is extended to the Club President, John Constance, for coming and showing his support.
The second team is always on the lookout for talent, so anyone who wants to join the fun should please look at the website for details (Ross-Hockey.co.uk) or go along to training on Monday (Monmouth Comprehensive) or Wednesday (John Kyrle) at 8pm.