Sutton Valence 1st XI seal league-topping season with another victory to finish unbeaten

In a scintillating field hockey encounter under the warm April sun at Kent College Pembury, Tunbridge Wells hosted Sutton Valence Hockey Club 1st XI in a clash that promised excitement from the outset. The eventual 3-5 triumph for Sutton Valence marked a culmination of their unbeaten season, securing their promotion into Invicta Division 2.

The first half showcased a back-and-forth struggle for dominance. Dickie Turnill's near-post threat set the tone, but it was Tunbridge Wells who struck first blood, asserting their early advantage. However, Sutton Valence quickly responded as Lewis Mitchell calmly found the net, followed by a precise strike from Matt Luksich courtesy of an expert pass by Mitchell, who was orchestrated into space by Fred McVarish.

As the match progressed into the second half, the intensity heightened. Tunbridge Wells clawed back with a goal of their own, but Sutton Valence's cohesive team play proved too much to handle. Mitchell once again showcased his prowess with another goal, this time assisted by Ali Carter. Mitchell's involvement wasn't limited to scoring, as he also demonstrated defensive prowess, blocking a shot from Angus McVarish.

Ali Carter himself found the back of the net in a rare scoring moment, adding to Sutton Valence's tally. Although Tunbridge Wells managed to convert a penalty flick, Sutton Valence's dominance was sealed with a goal by Dan Brooks, assisted by a pinpoint pass from Mitchell, picked out in turn by Clayton Pohio. A disallowed goal by Dickie Turnill didn't dampen Sutton Valence's spirits, as they celebrated a hard-earned victory.

Sutton Valence's triumph was a testament to their collective effort, with goals stemming from stellar teamwork and individual brilliance alike. The man of the match honour rightly went to Ali Carter, whose contribution proved invaluable in Sutton Valence's undefeated campaign.

The team end the season with a near-perfect unbeaten record, winning 19 of their 20 matches, scoring 134 goals and conceding just 12. Andy Turnill finished as top goalscorer, reaching a tally of 39 goals despite missing 3 of the last 4 games. More than this, the village side benefitted from one of the most enjoyable seasons in memory, bonding as a unit both on and off the pitch as the season progressed.

Thanks also go to our Club Sponsor, Ainsworth Civils & Engineering, and to the Queen's Head for providing the "best match teas in the league".

Goals: Lewis Mitchell (2); Matt Luksich; Ali Carter; Dan Brooks.

Team: Stewart Young; Russell Blanchard; Angus McVarish; Dan Brooks; Chris Back; Jack Davies; Fred McVarish; Clayton Pohio; Dickie Turnill; Matt Luksich; Lewis Mitchell; Ali Carter; Alex Stamp.
Mascot: Brett Angel; Fitness coach: Chris Johnson

Match report by Lewis Mitchell.