Tom Dunkley scores the winning goal for Redditch Mens 1s in the Cup
Redditch Men’s Firsts returned to winning ways on Saturday as they brushed Leamington aside 6-2. Despite not yet being up to full fitness, Andy Brooks reminded of his danger at this level with a stunning hat trick, with Jason Ellis Woodley scooping a brace and Steve Cook scoring the sixth. Redditch are up to fourth in the division and are top scorers in the league, with league leaders Wednesbury next up at home at Bromsgrove Road this weekend.
The Firsts also succeeded in the first round of the England Hockey Board’s Men’s Vase cup game on Sunday, with a 3-2 win away at Old Wulfrunians. Captain Chris Thomas’ strike ensured Redditch were 1-0 at half time, before Jason Ellis-Woodley’s superb drive from the edge of the D put the Reds 2-0 up. Tom Dunkley added the third at the far post after good work from Jason Abbotts to seemingly secure the game.
However both Ellis-Woodley and Dean Farmer spent times on the side-lines after receiving yellow cards, and with Redditch down to 10 men for two prolonged spells, the hosts grabbed two goals to ensure a nervy finale. The Kingfishers hung on however to progress to the next round and face an away trip to Stafford in November.
The Ladies Firsts were beaten 4-1 at home to Badsey, with Stella Smith’s stunning solo spin and shot the only real positive in an underwhelming display. The Ladies will look to return to their form shown last season away at Pershore this weekend.
Redditch Men’s Seconds continue to show promise in the West Midlands Premier Second Team League, even if results are yet to go their own way. Dan Waite’s squad succumbed to a 4-2 home defeat at home to high-flying Old Wulfrunians, but held their own for the majority of the game.
Waite’s solo effort from the edge of the D mid-way through the first period gave the Kingfishers the lead which would last until the final minutes of the half when two quick goals from the visitors gave them a 2-1 advantage at the break.
Wulfrunians grabbed another brace in the second half before Jason Abbotts’ pulled one back with an effort at the far post.
In perhaps the surprise result of the day, Redditch Mens Thirds secured a 4-2 win at home to the then unbeaten Old Silhillians. The visitors had scored 15 goals and conceded just one before the weekend, however Barry Fitzpatrick’s men pulled a superb performance out of the bag. Tim Gibbs secured his second goal in as many games by opening the account, with John Manison scoring either side of half time, before newcomer Jamie Browning wrapped up a superb victory.
The Ladies Thirds were beaten 5-1 away at Stourport, with Emma Lynch securing Redditch’s solitary strike.
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