HOCKEY: LEAGUE leaders West bromwich proved too good for a Yardley side who make their opponents work hard for a 3-0 away win in the West Midlands Division One.
After recent results, Yardley knew they were probably in for torrid afternoon, however, buoyed by improved performances and despite the heavy scorelines, Yardley set about his game in a most positive manner.
Early forays forward showed great promise and whenever West Brom attacked the home defence held firm, due in part to some timely tackles and saves by keeper Neal Makepeace and all members of the back line.
Yardley thought that they had shocked their opponents and taken an early lead when a great ball into the circle was deflected into the goal, but for some reason it was disallowed by the umpires.
There followed an injury to a Yardley defender that caused a lengthy delay before he had to leave the field to receive medical attention.
West Brom began to exert some pressure and forced a short corner that was deflected clear by Jeevan Chagger on the line.
The visitors began to create more and more chances and recorded several near misses as Yardley’s defence continued to resist the pressure, well marshalled by Alex Makepeace.
However, as half-time approached, West Bromwich earned a penalty corner and after the resulting shot on goal hit the bar, the ball bounced back into play to be met on the follow-up and into the goal to give a very slender lead at the break.
Yardley started the second period in determined fashion, eager to get back on level terms, while the visitors tried hard to push the ball about but found it difficult to make much headway against resolute defending.
However, midway through the half, West Bromwich forced another short corner that led to their second goal.
Yardley’s determined efforts continued to make their visitors work hard but eventually a third goal, a scrambled effort, finally secured the points.
West Bromwich will be thankful to have gained all three points whilst Yardley will feel that the final score-line did not do justice to their brilliant effort. This week Yardley travel to Wolverhampton.
