Thirds are blanked but mid-table finish provides hope for the future
Runcorn Men’s III 0 Denbigh Men’s II 3 RUNCORN Hockey Club men’s third-team produced an excellent performance in their final game of the season yet ended up 3-0 losers.
Although playing inconsistently in recent games, Runcorn had managed to win their last three encounters, but this was not to be their day.
A much better all-round display for the full match gave Runcorn three-quarters of the territory and possession but the goals did not come.
The first 10 minutes saw Denbigh look dangerous but the home side appeared much sharper than recently and held their own.
However, some good play from the visitors saw them take a deserved 1-0 lead.
Play was now fairly even but it was a very fortunate second goal that probably clinched the result in the Welsh outfit’s favour.
A firm Denbigh cross hit one of their players near the goal and the ball trickled over the Runcorn line.
The rest of the opening half saw Runcorn control the play but chances were missed and penalty corners misfired.
The half-time score of 2-0 to the visitors was somewhat harsh, but as the second half began it was clear that the home side were not out of it.
The majority of the second period was played in the Denbigh half of the field, but with three more penalty corners spurned, it was clear Runcorn were not going to score.
A rare defensive error saw Denbigh take their third goal and despite putting in great effort to the end, the match ended 3-0 to the Welshmen. ●
The performance gives great optimism for next season, and the mid-table position is a good platform to build upon for 2017-18.
This was a genuine team performance, but talented teemager Jake Fitzsimons played perhaps his very best game before he leaves the club. Still only 14-years-old, he is certain to progress to high level hockey and the Runcorn club are proud to have played their part in his development.