Mongooses Win Debut Match
Matthew Sabben-Claire
SHC Mongooses 5 - 4 Old Reigatian Men's 3s
Man of the match: James Evans
Goal scorers: Ben White (3), Alfie Riley, Ollie Neal
Following the Cobras’ success last season, expectations were high for the Mongooses’ debut league match, which turned out to be a tight game between two well-matched teams.
The Mongooses’ team contained a good mix of experience and up-and-coming talent from the Colts. The initial exchanges were a bit tentative, reflecting the fact that the team hadn’t played together before and a bit of early-season rustiness.
However, we quickly settled to a tight passing game and a pattern developed of robust defence complemented by pace in attack, with our youthful unit upfront looking threatening on the ball.
A seesawing game ended with the Mongooses hanging on to a 5-4 lead despite a late spirited rally by Old Reigatians.
It was far from error-free hockey, but a good base to build on for the season and much enjoyed by all. The match was played in an excellent spirit.