This week the 3’s travelled to bottom of the table Sittingbourne HC (Old Bordenian). Whilst quietly confident of being able to come away with the win, it was noted that the opposition usually provide a tight game despite fielding a bad side and that it would be no ‘walk in the park’. Added to this, were a number of changes to the 3’s regular eleven as a result of an availability crisis.
Valence started the game with 10 with Andrew Wishart off the pitch for a comfort break. Unperturbed, they started the game playing simple hockey, trying to retain possession with Chris Back marshalling the midfield and Mark Whitmill at centre back. Andy Turnill, playing his first game for over 2 years partnered Duncan Wills upfront, with goal machine Cockayne still side-lined with a wrist and groin Injury. They still managed their fair share of attacking opportunities but struggled to put the ball in the goal. Sittingbourne had to attack on the break with some good running from their youngsters but also failed to get any meaningful attempts on goal with Young in goal soaking up any half chances. After 25 mins Andy Turnill finally netted after an ariel ball caught the defence napping and coolly slotted home having only the keeper to beat. Ten minutes later a short corner added another with Darren Thompson deflecting Turnill’s low shot over the keeper’s foot and into the goal.
In the second half Valence continued to attack and spent large amounts of time in the Sittingbourne half, but though all this attacking pressure brought numerous chances for Wills and Turnill they couldn’t convert. A few loose passes helped Sittingbourne to threaten on the break, winning a quick succession of short corners and having good periods of possession but the Valence defence coped well.
Valence saw out the game well with little to seriously worry the defence and were rightly pleased with their victory keeping them mid table and ready to host Holcombe at home next week. A real hash job.

Goals: Andy Turnill; Darren Thompson

Team: Stuart Young; Mark Whitmill; Andrew Wishart; Charlie Tucker; Nick Hall; Alistair Robinson ; Darren Thompson ; Chris Back; Duncan Field ; Andy Turnill; Duncan Wills.
Umpires provided by the home team.

Match report by Darren Thompson.

Next week the 3rd Xl are at home at the Prep School at 11.00 against Holcombe Hurricanes Xl.