Thirds closing in on title with win

HOCKEY: Leek thirds went into their top of the table clash with Telford knowing that a win would all but secure them the championship title.

The home side knew they needed to start strongly against the only team to have beaten them this season. And they did just that, taking control of the game from the outset and pressurising the more experienced Shropshire side into unnecessary errors.

It was from one of these situations that Leek took an early lead, Ben Mellor forcing the turnover and then setting up Sam Heath who calmly slotted the ball under the advancing keeper for his 12th of the season.

Archie Bartram was running riot on the left wing for Leek, his skill and speed were too much for the Telford defence and it was he who helped create the home sides second goal, after beating the full-back he found Gareth Plant in the ‘D’ who in turn pulled the ball back for Ant Mellor to score with a trademark reverse stick finish.

Leek were good value for their half time lead, however, knew that the early period of the second half would be crucial as Telford would need to increase the intensity to stand any chance of the league title.

Leek then raised their level to take full control of the match, once again it was Leeks younger players who really came to the fore and forced Telford onto the back foot.

It was only a matter of time before Leek put the game beyond reach and they continued their good record of converting short corners with first Tom Greenwood getting in on the act and then a superb deft finish from Ben Mellor completing the scoring.

Leek continued to press with Josh Woodcock and Charlie Heath prompting the forwards and the exceptional Bartram continuing to torment the Shropshire side, the whole team can be proud of the performance as they completely outclassed their nearest challengers.