A fantastic team performance in their opening game of the England Hockey Cup saw Bourne Deeping come out on top in the battle of the Dragons.
A confident opening saw them play some lovely quick passing moves as they settled into a 3-2-3-2 formation, supporting each other on the ball to good effect and working their way up the pitch as a unit.
It was a fairly evenly matched first half, both teams had their chances but it was Joseph who struck first for the home side to edge their noses in front. Norwich responded well, but Bourne Deeping held firm, keeping their shape brilliantly and showing a wonderful combination of tenacity and work rate, coupled with composure on the ball and a confidence to play themselves out of tight spots when necessary.
The second half saw Bourne Deeping off to a flyer with Hugo adding a second goal to give them some breathing space and with Joe, Roddy and Ben outstanding at the back, protected in the shield by Charlie / Alex / Rafa, Norwich were restricted to a handful of half chances and penalty corners. A 3rd goal from Joseph, a lovely reverse stick finish after making room for the shot in a crowded D was the icing on the cake, but this truly was a team performance. Great to see how well the boys have come on in the last couple of seasons and to see them playing the game not just to such a high standard, but in a great spirit; hard work, hard tackles, but always respectful to the opposition, umpires, and their team mates. Bring on St Neots next at AMVC on Dec 1st. Come down and support the lads.