Ross Seconds 2 Cheltenham D 2

ROSS men’s hockey second XI travelled away to Cheltenham to face a team who were still on a high from their previous week’s 10-1 victory and managed to leave with honours even.

Restorative moments in sport are supposed to be grand affairs, with emotive soundtracks, preferably viewed in slow motion with an audience of thousands. Ideally they are accompanied by one lone figure applauding in stunned silence, gradually joined by those all around until the entire stadium is on its feet going wild. They are certainly not supposed to take place under leaden skies in Cheltenham whilst playing in Marches League Two hockey, in an atmosphere that could only be compared to world championship paint drying.

However for Adrian Williams, when the opportunity presented itself to return to the first team, he was like a man possessed.

"All I wanted to do was be the central part of this team,” he said.

“I feel that I’ve got a crucial role to play and didn’t want to let anyone down. I like to think I’m repaying everyone for all the missing years.”

In truth, whilst Adrian’s contribution was important, it was no less vital than the other ten players within the team. James Evans in goal made crucial saves throughout the match. The youngsters up front, Freddie, Archie, Rory, Dan and Theo are a revelation with their darting runs and neat interplay constantly causing havoc. Finally the manner in which new club member Tom Yallop took his goals suggests he might be called up regularly for his intimidating presence.

The Man of the Match award was presented to James Evans for his crucial interventions.

Training takes place every Monday at Monmouth Leisure Centre and Wednesday at John Kyre High School, starting at 7pm for juniors and 8pm for adults. Anyone interested is welcome to attend, whatever ability.

Next week Ross return for another away trip to Cheltenham, but this time in expectation of going one step further and taking all three points.