Two heavy defeats for North Devon hockey teams
North Devon hosted the 3rd Isca 3s on Saturday. Unfortunately, they got off to the worst possible start, conceding twice from the first two shots, giving a well-rounded Isca side too much time and space.
North Devon rallied somewhat and several changes began to balance the game, with man of the match Sam Kirkness beginning to control things in midfield. But again, Isca hit them on the counter-attack to lead 3-0 at half-time.
In the second half, North Devon flew out of the traps and should have pulled one back immediately, but the usually reliable Ash Thorne missed a great opportunity after unselfish play from the returning Pete Smale.
They were rewarded with a drive down the right which was finished beautifully by captain Ben Andrews. North Devon continued to press while Isca always looked dangerous on the counter.
A superb save from Jay Corden and match partner Thorne kept Isca at bay, but as tempers flared on both sides, the game ended in a 3-1 defeat for the home side.
Captain Andrews said: “I was proud of the effort and commitment in the second half, the discipline needs to be better but hopefully we can refocus and finish the season strongly.”
By Ashley Thorne
North Devon 2nds traveled to top division Devonport Services 1s.
With a few last minute additions. The North Devon team went from eight players on Thursday to a full squad three minutes before kick-off, with honorable mentions to Matt Brown, Phil Brand and Richard Jones for helping build the squad.
North Devon knew it was going to be a tough game but were still willing to give it their all. The game started well with some good passing between the North Devon players before Devonport began to apply the pressure.
The first goal was conceded early on but that didn’t stop North Devon trying for a goal and two short corners but unfortunately neither found their way into the net.
Three more Devonport goals followed and just before the half-time whistle. The second half saw man of the match Nat Mitchel start from left and right in goal, but Devonport managed to score four more goals before the end of the game.
By Louis Hardy
