KEW Hockey Club

Kew Pennant C v Monash (1-1)

As a club Kew never seem to handle the mid-season break too well. Many theories have been trotted out over the years, including injuries, holidays and lack of depth. We have tried several strategies over the years to combat the malaise. This year it was hoped the “Mid Year Review” would change the fortunes of the club and more pertinently Kew Pennant C, which tends to reflect the fortunes of the entire club. It was hoped the review would provide a light raft to keep us buoyant across the break. But as they say, two rocks tied together still don’t float.

As usual for a third grade team, we saw plenty of changes at the selection table. Into the lineup came Cam Nelson, Jon Hyatt and resident rock ‘n roll star, Budge (aka James Harvey). However we paid a heavy price, losing Tags to injury, Tom Clements to the 4ths and Jono and Hubba up to the 2nds.

Monash picked a very strong side for their visit to Elgar Park. And it had to be remembered that they were one of only two sides to take points from us with a 1-1 draw earlier in the season. It was not going to be easy.

Played in cool temperatures but good spirits, it was a high intensity match. Both sides enjoyed space on their forward line and created many scoring chances. Possibly somewhat against the run of play, Kew were the first to score thanks to a second chance at a penalty corner from coach Nath Stevens. After his first shot came back at a gentle pace, Nath made no mistake with the second chance, hammering the ball bottom left for a 1-0 lead at half time.

Kew came out very well in the second half and had all the play for the first twenty or so minutes, missing several close chances along the way. This was due to both good saves from the opposition keeper and a few very near misses either side of the post.

However Monash got themselves back into the game and began to test our defence again, inducing several terrific saves from Tan Man in the net. In the last minute of the game, the visitors converted a penalty corner at about their 20th attempt. It wasn’t pretty but they all count for the same.

Its always tough when the opposition score a late one against you, but Monash deserved their point. After 140 minutes and over two games of very tough hockey against these guys the scores sits at 2-2.

It was a timely reminder that only our best will be good enough. Any less and we are back in the pack. The author notes that full attendance at training will go a long way to seeing us finish where we are capable.