Redditch Hockey Club

Redditch Mens Thirds were unlucky to lose 5-3 away at Pershore.

In an attacking game, goals from John Manison, Terry Dean and Jason Abbots weren’t quite enough to see off their Worcestershire rivals, but will be confident ahead of their home game to basement boys Kidderminster this weekend.

Redditch Ladies Seconds were beaten 3-1 at Stourport, but were handed a goalkeeping conundrum after Stacey Cowley received a late call-up from the Ladies Firsts, leaving the Seconds with no recognised goalkeeper in their line-up.

Beth Vincent however made her first appearance in goal, and gave an assured display.

Kate Knightingale was the scorer for Redditch, who despite losing gave a solid display with their youngsters in particular shining through.

There was better news though for the Girls Under 16’s, who progressed to the next round of the England Hockey Girls Under 16’s Plate, winning 3-0 on Penalty flicks at Gloucester City after drawing 1-1 in normal time.

Redditch dominated the first half but were unable to break the deadlock.

Gloucester started the second half stronger, but against the run of play Philippa Williams was able to put Redditch ahead.

The home side continued to pressure though and deservedly moved back onto level terms mid way through the second half.

And Gloucester should have won the game in the dying seconds, only to miss at the back post.

That brought the game down to the lottery of penalty flicks, and Redditch goalkeeper Stacey Cowley was the star of the shootout.

Cowley saved Gloucester’s first flick before Danni Nevitt put Redditch ahead by placing the ball just inside the post, out of reach of the Gloucester keeper.

Cowley then pulled off another save before Nicola Moss capped off a decent display by putting Redditch two goals ahead.

Gloucester may not have believed their eyes when Cowley went on to save their third flick, before Williams calmly buried hers to send Redditch through to round three.