Stone are double trouble for Rhinos

BURTON Rhinos completed their hockey season with two away fixtures against Stone.

They took a large but inexperienced squad for the first game and Burton struggled to make an impact in Stone’s half as the game progressed.

But they remained resolute in defence with some strong tackling and fabulous saves by keeper Zack Satchwell, one made with his stick in particular standing out.

However, the visitors began to tire in the second half and suffered a couple of injuries.

Stone capitalised, with a skilful forward creating constant problems in the Burton D as they clinched a 5-0 win.

It was closer in the second game as Burton welcomed back some of their more experienced players.

They also started with another debutant at keeper – Neave O’farrell – while manager Mark Shorthouse played a cameo role to help her settle in.

He was not needed for long though as Burton began the game camped in Stone territory half, with their usual central midfield of George Flear and Ben Blakeman back together and regularly breaking through the home defence.

The game was end-to-end throughout but when Burton defender Katie Smith suffered an injury, Stone were able to capitalise.

Returning to the pitch, the Rhino’s manager blocked one aerial shot only for a forward to smash in the deflection on the volley.

That goal summed up Burton’s day with Stone finishing what few clear-cut chances they had and the visitors at times just failing when looking certain to score.

Stone won 6-3 but with a bit more good fortune Burton could have easily drawn.

A young Rhinos squad has shown promising signs throughout the campaign and has never given up when playing against often more experienced opponents.

Many will have plenty of time on their side in the Badgers set-up to gel into a formidable squad for the future.