Tough battle for hockey fans (From Thurrock Gazette)

Second string action for hockey team

6:00am Friday 19th October 2012 in Sport

HOCKEY: With T’s section almost at full strength last weekend, the Thuirrock Hockey Club's second string lined up with a team which would rival any side in Division 5.

Opponents Colchester had looked at the vast gap between the two teams in the league table, and expected to roll the Tees over.

But on the back of his hat-trick away to Crostyx last week, veteran Darren Huggins caused early problems for the visiting defence. He opened the scoring after 12 minutes.

Thurrock racked up another goal but Colchester replied with a goal from a short corner when the preoccupied Tees defence forgot to look after the right hand post and paid the penalty.

Much discussion took place at half time concerning the threat which at least two of the visiting players could pose should they be allowed to play to their full potential.

But the 2s totally dominated their opposite numbers in the second half.

And Colchester’s main threat was left sitting on the bench scratching his bald head in bewilderment at what was happening to his colleagues on the pitch.

Huggins added another two, and Jeff West lifted the ball sublimely into the net for his first of the season – and Thurrock’s fifth.

The visitors did manage a break away consolation.

But, for all their efforts, they failed to take the game to a dominant T’s outfit.

Skipper Keith Mager was delighted by his side’s showing. He said: “This team should now be looking at getting within striking distance of the promotion places.

“And a win at old rivals Old De Ferrians on Saturday would see us fly up the table.”