Devizes Hockey Club

The Marauding Moonrakers - Sponsored by Wadworth

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DHC : Nunquam non paratus

Devizes Mens Firsts v. Cheltenham 1-0

Saturday March 13 2010

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DEVIZES 1 - 0 CHELTENHAM

Wadworth 6X sponsored Devizes first team faced a Cheltenham side on the brink of promotion to the National League this week. Following their recent run of poor results it was vital that the Wiltshire boys could turn on a performance for their last home game of the 09/10 season to prove to themselves and those watching just what they are capable of.

It was clear from the start that Devizes were going to make Cheltenham give everything they have got if they are to triumph in the Devizes hockey arena. The home side looked solid from the push back and played with a style and pattern reminiscent of the form they captured just before Christmas when they were serious title contenders. The open free flowing attractive hockey Devizes were producing began to frustrate the visitors. This led to goal machine Jack Betenson converting at the end of a rapid attacking move mid way through the first half. The assist provided by cool headed Roger Edwards who slipped the ball across the keeper where Betenson pounced to take his goal tally to double figures for the season.

Devizes went into half time with a one-nil lead and knew they had to keep their heads if they were to maintain their lead. Every member of the Devizes squad played their part and put in the miles on the pitch. Unlike in recent weeks, the movement off the ball for the home side was superb, with the basics and crisp passing looking sharp and dangerous all over the park. Cheltenham seemed to put the pressure on in the last ten minutes, but the organised back line of Devizes coped well and allowed no way through for the opposition.

The game finished 1-0 to Devizes, which was exactly what they deserved. This result illustrates that when Devizes play to their potential, they are capable of beating anybody in the league. This was a great game to have as the last home game and the positives must be taken into next week in order to finish the season on a high.

The Wadworth 6X man of the match is awarded to Jack Betenson for the second week running for a superb all round performance and a ‘tap-in' at the far post!

Cardiff & UWIC who were the only side who could catch Cheltenham lost to Firebrands resulting in Cheltenham gaining promotion despite their loss.

Next week Devizes travel across the water to Welsh side, Whitchurch. This is another game that can have a huge effect on the league. A win for Devizes will see Whitchurch relegated. A win for Whitchurch will see Bristol side Firebrands relegated which means it will certainly not be a gentle final game for Devizes.