Men’s 3As Salvage Late Point at Gamblers

Men’s 3As 4 - 4 EUHC Gamblers

After finally finding the pitch after trudging through the back corridors of Crystal Palace Sports Centre, thanks to the combined efforts from Charlie and Seth, the 3As were treated to one of the few pitches that outdates the matured Quincey. Knowing the game wouldn’t have the usual flair and panache, they settled down for a gruelling affair with a physical anti-hockey side.

Gamblers came out pressing high, taking good advantage of the unfamiliar lack of speed from the pitch and causing difficulty for Surbiton’s outletting. This continued pressure lead to Gamblers striking first, scoring from a village back post deflection from a hit into the D. Despite some good chances for Surbiton the first half followed a similar pattern of crash balls finding unmarked Gamblers forwards. A special mention to Joe Burnley for multiple double saves to keep the score a moderate 2-0 at half time.

A very inspirational team talk from Captain Wadders and Vice Quincey relaying their dismay to the lack of offensive prowess fell on deaf ears with Gamblers scoring early into the second with another deflection past a acrobatic Burnley.

Realising the task ahead of them was arduous invigorated Surbiton who started creating clear cut chances and cutting the Gamblers press apart. This all led to old man Quincey winding back the years to get himself a hat trick within 15 minutes, scoring two drag flicks and a well disguised reverse hit to beat the keeper at the near post.

However pushing for the win allowed for an easy counter, which was well finished by Gamblers. Feeling the game ebbing away Surbiton mounted a final charge playing a lovely cross pitch ball to Adam Sloan who again made a lovely disguised hit to beat the keeper at the near post. Before the ball managed to reach the centre spot the final whistle blew.

A disappointing result and not reflective of the impressive first half of the season.