Berkeley One Hockey League

Lydney II 13-0 Old Bristolians III

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LYDNEY Hockey Club’s rapidly developing second side crowned an outstanding season with an incredible 13-0 win over Old Bristolians.

The contrast between this season, where Lydney just missed out narrowily on fourth, and last term where they escaped relegation by a whisker, was immense.

Team spokeswoman Cynthia Jones said: “Although the end result would have no effect on our position in the league and the odds were with us on this occasion, we were conscious not to let complacency sneak in.

“Morale was high and we were determined, despite the soggy weather, to go out and give it 100 per cent in a bid to finish the season with a positive goal difference.

“The progression from last season, where we missed relegation by a cat’s whisker and a prayer, to this season, where we have clawed our way up to a solid fifth place ñ narrowly missing fouth by just one point, has been remarkable.

With the help of our coaches and hard work we are still gaining momentum.

The dedication, communication and pack-like teamwork on the pitch was incredible constantly putting pressure on Old Bristolians.

The visitors broke through to the Lydney D a few times and after one nail-biting clearance off the goal line and some excellent defending, the ball was weaved back upfield and into the goal.

Cynthia added: “Some fantastic builds, assists and awesome finishes left us feeling like the cat who got the cream. The atmosphere was electric thanks to our team of wonderful dedicated supporters including the club secretaries. Thanks also to our club chairman and treasurer for umpiring.

The Lydney first team also has been going from strength-to-strength in Premiership One, narrowly missing promotion to the National League after finishing fourth against some of the country’s top teams and they go into next season in a strong position.

The third team squad is increasing in numbers, stature and diversity and had a goal-rich season with an incredible goal difference of 39.

They could potentially finish third in Berkeley Three.

Lydney’s newly-formed mixed under-13 team were unbeaten against some local teams while the club also entered under-12 tournaments this season for academy and youth section players.

For next season, the club is looking to form and enter a new Vixens team for girls between 12- and 16-years old and will continue to develop the Badgers side for boys in that age group.

The club welcomes new players and can be contacted through www.

lydneyhockey.wordpress.

com or go along to club day at the Freedom Leisure Centre in Lydney on September 1.