HOCKEY: Proud day in national masters final

National Over 40s Men’s Masters Cup Final

Robinsons 5

Rugby & East Warwickshire 2

It was a proud day for Rugby as the over 40s made it to the national cup final. An army of supporters made the trip to the Olympic Park and they were treated to a high standard of hockey from the vets, captained by Leigh Spacey.

In the first half Rugby moved the ball around nicely, Chris Graham and Alex Watkins coming closest. Chris Duerden, Richard Spraget and Russ Watling were able to mop up most of what Robinsons threw at them. On a few occasions Rugby were caught trying to play out from the back but the ever impressive Danny Bell was able to stand firm in goal.

In the second half Robinsons took the lead, but this fired Rugby up and within minutes they were winning 2-1. The first goal was finished by Colin Odwell after some good work by Graham. The second was by Watkins, converting a Watling short corner.

It looked like it was going to be Rugby’s day when Robinsons missed a penalty, awarded after the ball struck Giles Morrison’s shins on the line. Unfortunately a five-minute blip in the middle of the second half cost Rugby, as Robinsons found three goals to take the game out of reach and win the cup.

The 5-2 scoreline was perhaps unfair on Rugby but the team should be proud of their achievement and being able to compete on the National stage. Thanks to coach Dave Morgan, manager Nick Hutchinson and all the supporters who all played their part in making this such a special day for the club.