After a week of reflecting on our match against Blackheath, the squad took a lot of positives from the loss. Defensively, we were more solid. We missed golden opportunities, and, for some reason, our attacking instincts didn't meet Sutton Valence's expectations.

With that in mind, the boys got to work midweek, crafting attacking scenarios. This led to a scintillating performance against Old Williamsonians, winning 6-3.
New recruits jumped into the fray: Jack Sheldon returned to Kent on a short-term loan from Cornwall, picking up his girlfriend on the way—what a gentleman. Chris Johnson, looking fresh after not running an ultra before the game (smart move). And Jay McGoon, the newest signing, found by Dan Brooks while hunting for new players on Kent's golf courses.

The game began tentatively, with the opposition attempting an early attack.

Ten minutes in, we were two goals down. Were we bothered? Not at all. We've evolved from the old SVHC approach—positive and disciplined is the way forward. The back three played the ball around with ease, as Old Willie's tired, Dan 'the Cobra' Brooks struck with venom.

Our efforts led to penalty corners. The planned short corners never worked, but Fred McV's smash did the trick. He melted the ball onto the post, rebounding off an Old Willy and trickling into the goal. 2-1.

We pressed for the equaliser, and from the training ground, another fizzed ball into the D saw Angle Turnill deflect it into the goal corner. Inspired by his brother, of course. 2-2.

Half-time came at the wrong moment, SVHC were on top.

The second half has always been tough for Valence, and the question was, could we maintain the pressure?

Dan Brooks was a man possessed. Whatever was said at home must have worked. Perhaps no funds for a skiing trip led to controlled anger. He danced around players, causing havoc, supported by Lewis Mitchell, who was a ghost in attack—defenders struggled to mark him.

Then, like buses, all the goals came at once. Andy T, showing why we missed his prolific goal-scoring, popped them in like a young Gary Lineker. Jay McGoon, not wanting to be remembered for his first-half green card, created a lovely assist for Andy Turnill's hat trick. Chris Johnson dealt with the pile-up around the goal and converted his opportunity with his trusty light saber. 5-2.

Alex Stamp showed signs of jealousy and wanted in on the fun. With a hardworking ball win around the halfway line, he weaved through players like cones and, with panache, subtly rolled the ball past the keeper. 6-2. Old Willies flopped to the ground, down and out.

With 10 minutes to go, we've been here before. Remember the Gillingham Anchorians game? 3-0 up...3-3 final score.
The boys managed the game, played for field position, and worked hard for one another. Old W's had a flick after Stewart Young turned into the monk from Mean Machine to prevent a goal. The flick was taken, and the player hit the woodwork. A huge momentum swing for Valence. Another attack from Old W's, and Dan Brooks came sliding in to save the ball on the line. If only his great team Spurs could replicate his passion and desire! With 4 minutes to go, they finally converted, but it was too late. 6-3 final score.

A fantastic performance from the team, one to remember and a testament to the hockey we can be proud of. 7 points out of 9 on the road!

Goals: Fred McVarish, Andrew Turnill x3, Chris Johnson, Alexander Stamp

Report By: Ali Carter

Stewart Young
Dan Brooks
Ali Carter
Jack Sheldon
Josh Houston
Chris Johnson
Fred McVarish
Richard Turnill
Lewis Mitchell
Alex Stamp
Andy Turnhill
Jay Mcgoon

Next Match: Cliftonville M1 (H) 13:30