Club News

CROSTYX II      2 - 2    MENS I

With Thurrock run of injuries taking its toll on first team players and Crostyx heavily strengthening their second team this was always going to be a tight game. Thurrock started the brighter of the two teams having some excellent chances but the striking trio of Matt Gaut, Christian Jenkins and returning Captain Steve Abbott just could not convert them. As the game went on Crostyx became stronger and won two short corners and converted them to put the home side 2–0 up. Thurrock finished the first half under pressure but Gary Ginsburgh, Tommy Ing and Luke Danbrook stayed strong to hold out until half time.

After a stern team talk Thurrock came out fighting in the second half, the midfield of Kyle Taylor and Nick Stapleton worked hard and it started to pay off. Tees were awarded a short corner and Matthew Gaut drag flicked the ball into the top corner to put the away side back into contention. Thurrock then kept on pressing and putting the opposition under pressure but just could not find the finishing touch. With the last move of the game some slick passing between Dec Millane and Matt Gaut allowed Millane to square the ball for captain and man of the match Steve Abbott to score his first goal of the season to put the two teams level.

COLCHESTER III      3 - 1     MENS II

Thurrock had the best of the opening 15 minutes and did not allow Colchester to put any attacks together but with most of the possession they could not find a way through the Colchester defence. It was the home side that did start the scoring with a breakaway goal that stunned the Thurrock side, the goal gave the home side confidence and it was now wave after wave of attacks but  some fine saves from captain Keith Mager and defending from Sam Webb frustrated the attackers. Just before half time Michael Hewing converted a short corner to bring the scores back level with a unstoppable strike. Both teams looked to take the lead in the second half and both had chances to do that but it was Colchester that scored two goals in the last 10 minutes to take all three points.

MENS III   4 - 2     BRENTWOOD VI

Thurrock started this East Division 8SE game with only 10 men and found themselves behind in the first minute when a defensive mix-up allowed the Brentwood forward to run unchallenged into the area and shoot past Danny Hick. Once they were at full strength, Thurrock began to link passes together and Michael Fleming collected a pass from Himesh Patel and dribbled through the defence before slipping the ball past the advancing keeper. A threatening attack by Brentwood was cut out by Declan Salmon and the ball was hit out to Freddy Taylor who made a speedy run on the right before passing inside to Jimmy Venus who hammered the ball into the net. A half time substitution saw Lawrence Jackson play his first game of the season and within 5 minutes he made an impact by collecting a pass from Josh Bridges and weaving through the Brentwood defence before flicking into the roof of the net. Thurrock were dominating the game and the Brentwood keeper was forced into a string of acrobatic saves to prevent further score. Mid way through the half, a breakaway by Brentwood led to the award of a short corner. The shot was stopped but crept over the line to the dismay of the Thurrock defence. Thurrock worked hard and a tackle from Ethan Pinion on the Thurrock 25 metre line led to the ball being quickly slipped to Dave Everett who played a one-two with Josh Bridges before passing wide to Freddy Taylor who beat the full back and cut into the D and passed to Fleming who scored to make the final score 4-2.

Minis xxx

Thurrock Hockey Club’s Mini section were back at Palmers College on Sunday 22nd January playing in their fifth tournament of the 2011/2012 season. Combining with Southend Minis the Under 10 and Under 12 boys and girls teams played counterparts from Brentwood, Maldon and Witham hockey clubs. There were strong competitive games in all sections, in the Under 10’s the girls three results were a draw and two wins 1-0, 0-0 and 3-0 the scorers were Daniel 1 (kindly helping the girls in the first game) Annabel 1 and Claudia 2. The Under 10 boys also drew one and won two of their games  0-0, 2-0 and 4-0 in the last game with a strong performance overwhelming Brentwood. The scorers for the boys were Jamie Speers 2 , Ben Bridger 2, Tömas Eastwood 1 and again but this time for the boys Daniel 1 (so 2 in total).

COLCHESTER 5^th   3 - 1    MENS 3

This was a very physical game in East Division 8SE with both teams desperate for points to maintain their push for promotion. The game moved rapidly from end to end with both keepers being forced to make strong saves. Mid way through the half an attack by Colchester was cut out by Declan Salmon and the ball moved rapidly up the field to Jimmy Venus who dribbled through the defence before passing for Ricky Smith to slip the ball inside the post. Despite heavy pressure, the Thurrock defence held strong to maintain the lead up to half time. A reorganisation by the home side led to them attacking strongly and equalising after 10 minutes.  Buoyed by their success, Colchester dominated the game and Thurrock were forced to defend in numbers with Danny Hick having to pull off a number of athletic saves. Thurrock gradually worked their way back into the game and Josh Brody made a break on the left before crossing into the D to Venus whose shot went inches wide. A strong run from half way by Michael Fleming led to a shot which the keeper had to dive full length to push around the post. When Venus received was dismissed for decent, Thurrock were slow to reorganise and Colchester took full advantage to take the lead. Thurrock were then reduced to 9 men as Fleming received a yellow card for aggression and had to pull everyone back to try to repel the incessant Colchester attacks. Although Thurrock worked hard with Salmon making a string of outstanding clearances, the task proved too much and with 5 minutes to go, Colchester added a 3^rd goal.

REDBRIDGE     2 - 2     LADIES 3

The ladies started the game with 10 players and very quickly showed immense determination and skill that caused an experienced Redbridge team to call upon all of their reserves to keep a clean sheet. Emma Grant and Sue Beardwell worked excellently together and caused ‘mayhem’ for the opposition. Nicky Smith supported the attack well and was unlucky not to score.

Thurrock regained 1 player and then after reshuffling were so unlucky to go 1 goal down from a well worked short corner. Just before half time T’s numbers swelled to 12. This timely arrived spurred on the team and a well won ball by Grace Millane put Amy Beadle into an excellent position to deftly pass to captain Jackie Simmonds who fired in a shot only to see it saved but Simmonds picked up the clearance and fired home to bring the score to 1-1.

The 2nd half was equally thrilling and end to end hockey was played in good spirits. The ladies found themseleves a goal behind again but to their credit the defence was solid with player of the match Abbie Pollock thwarting so many of the Redbridge attacks. T’s were rewarded when Simmonds took a free hit quickly catching the defence’napping’ and slipped the ball through to Chloe Brady who neatly placed the ball past the stranded keeper.

Ladies are looking strong and the team spirit is exceptional !

East London 1 - 3 Thurrock Mens 1XI

Going into the winter break the Tee's knew this was a must win game against a team who are always strong. With a depleted squad 2 players stepped up and with dogged determination earnt their spots.

The game started with both teams hitting each other on the counter attack with the Tee's free flowing passing coming from Dan O'Shaughnessy, Ben Knowles, Sandeep Gahir & Andre Rudder feeding the front 3 of Matt Gaut, Christian Jenkins & Mike Murray. All of the Tee's goals came in the first half with Matt Gaut bagging 2 and Christian 1.

The second half started with the home side battering the Tee's defence of Tommy Ing, Gary Ginsburgh and Nick Stapleton. The Tee's took the pressure in their stride with some help from the Liam O'Keefe and Andy Sargeant.

The Tee's gave away too many short corners and eventually the numbers showed and gave the home side some hope of getting back in the game with a well worked short corner.The Tee's held out to take the win, even with the home side pushing all out for the last 10 minutes, but everything that made it past the defence couldn't get past the man of the match Andy Gaut in the Tee's net.

Mens 3 XI      1 - 2      Old Loughtonians Academy

The timing of this game and lack of players in higher teams meant that Thurrock were forced to field a weakened team for this Div 8SE fixture.

The visitors however did not experience similar problems and contained a number of very experienced players. From the start Loughts mounted a strong attack and went into the lead after 10 minutes from a reverse stick shot  from the edge of the D which flew into the roof of the net leaving keeper Keith Mager rooted to the spot.

Academy continued to dominate the play forcing the Thurrock defence to work hard to keep them at bay whilst up the front, the attackers saw very little of the ball. Thurrock held fast until half time with centre-back Declan Salmon making some timely tackles to prevent further score. Loughtonians continued to pile on the pressure after the break and added to their score from a short corner.

Thurrock eventually got onto the score sheet when Jimmy Venus intercepted a Loughtonians pass and moved quickly up the field before passing for Michael Fleming to score. This inspired Thurrock and they began to match the visitors with a series of attacks but were thwarted by the in-form Loughtonians keeper. In the last 10 minutes any further hope of Thurrock levelling score was reduced when they were reduced to 10 men due to the dismissal of Gary Venus for dissent.

Ladies 2XI

Ladies 2s' game conceded as no umpire arrived for us. Played it as afriendly instead, which was fun. Keeper Kerry Dent came out on pitchfor second half, and Nicole Brown went in goal. Was a good giggle andfinished off with delicious pasta. Thanks Ladies 2s for all your efforts for part one of the season. I am sure part two will be just aseventful! Have a great Christmas break.

MENS I        1 - 4      OLD SOUTHENDIANS I

The mens injury problems continue apace with Liam O'Reem dislocating his shoulder and having a ride in an ambulance to hospital. With three players missing through injury and four others unavailable it seems that nothing can go right for the Mens 1 side. The good news is that captain Steve Abbott, recovering from an operation on his leg, had a run out for the Seconds and came through unscathed and Andy Sargeant had the plaster removed from his ankle, hopefully making a return in the New Year. The game against Old Southendians I ended with a 1-4 defeat with Christian Jenkins scoring T's consolation goal late in the game after dominating the visitors for the last 20 minutes. Man of the Match was Tommy Ing.

MENS II    5 - 3     OLD SOUTHENDIANS

The Seconds played a mid table clash against old Southendians, winning by 5 goals to 3 to leapfrog their opponents in Division 5SE. Darren Higgins scored a hat trick, while Liam Birch and Steve Abbott got a goal each. Man of the match was Jordan salmon.

PHOENIX III     3 - 4     MENS III

TUNBRIDGE WELLS I      2 - 0     LADIES I

Much to the credit of the captains the ladies section managed to field all three teams despite a huge amount of illness, unavailablity and injury!

Thurrock Firsts were without at least five of their regular team but put up a strong fight and unfortunately were only beaten by two set routines at short corners. Katie Lawrence had a fine game and proved her worth as an up and coming first teamer. Captain Tess Ing inspired the team with her continued running and encouragement.

HAVERING II     5 - 0       LADIES II

The Seconds were without four key players and unfortunately had to play with 10 and relied upon players arriving from the previous Third team match! It was a credit to the captain Fay Tuffee who skilfully managed a new look team. The first half saw the girls compete excellently and it was to the credit of the new look defence: Liz Grey, Deb Blaimey and Lisa Simmonds that held the strong Havering side 0-0 at half time. Unfortunately the second half proved to be exhausting and despite stirling work from captain Tuffee the ladies could not halt the onslaught which resulted in five goals being put past the hardworking keeper Kerry Dent.

LADIES III       2 - 1      MALDON & LITTLE BADDOW II

The ladies Thirds are having a tough season and just manging to field a team most weeks and as a result of this are sitting uncomfortably at the bottom of division with only having won one game. It looked as though this game was to be cancelled but at the ‘eleventh hour’ new players were found and ‘old players’ returned! The Ladies with a brand new look team ran out convincing 2-1 winners against Maldon. Sarah Judd rallied the girls early in the game and her inspirational running made the team realise that they could win. Newcomer Nicky Smith worked excellently with Judd and she was involved with both of the T’s goals. One being an own goal and player of the match Abbie Pollock scoring the other.

Maldon came back with force and T’s soaked up the pressure well with Sandra Hockley, returning after 20 years, making an outstanding contribution. The defence was a family affair with Hockley, her sister, captain Jackie Simmonds and her daughter Lisa Simmonds all working well led by the ever reliable Debbie Lakey proved to be too strong for the determined Maldon attack. The goal came through a penalty flick.

The ladies section hope to return to fuller strength next week

THURROCK MENS II     1 - 1     PHOENIX II

Phoenix, with seven wins in eight games this season, might have expected an easy three points at Palmer’s on Saturday afternoon, but when the Tees put out their strongest line up they are a match for any side in Division 5SE.

The first half was goalless, but either side could have led at the break. On another day the home forwards Darren Higgins and Dec Millane would have had at least a goal each. With Sam Webb now a regular fixture in the 2s, Mike Hewing has been enjoying his new role in midfield, and it was he who was creating most of the 2s' opportunities.

Phoenix made the most of a two on one situation early on in the second period to take the lead, but it was Thurrock who controlled the play for the majority of the half. The midfield quartet of Hewing, Jordan Salmon, Dan O’Shaughnessy and Jeff West were winning the ball back every time Phoenix tried to clear their lines, but Ash Snell up front, on for the injured Millane, and Higgins couldn’t find a way past the excellent visiting goalkeeper.

With 15 minutes left on the clock, Hewing blasted the ball goalwards from a penalty corner, finally beating the goalie and giving Thurrock hope of what would be a deserved victory.

Tees made several more chances, another Hewing strike from a penalty corner beating the keeper but being cleared off the line, and three or four being hit just wide of the post, but couldn’t get a winner. Sam Webb was again voted man of the match, but that could have gone to any one of five or six players, such was the quality of the hockey on display.

THURROCK MENS III     7 - 1      BRENTWOOD ACADEMY

Thurrock began strongly and went into the lead after five minutes when Ricky Smith beat the defender and slipped the ball for Josh Brody to beat the keeper from close range. Thurrock maintained their pressure and Liam Birch collected the ball on the half-way line and ran the length of the pitch before hammering the ball into the net from the edge of the D. Brentwood began to link passes together and threatened the Thurrock defence but some strong tackles by Neil Donovan and George McAllister ensured that keeper Mark Harvey was untroubled. With five minutes to go to half-time, Michael Fleming converted a pass from Jimmy Venus.

Thurrock increased their pressure in the second half when Himesh Patel moved into midfield and Fleming joined the attack. This produced a goal after five minutes when a cross by Gary Venus was nudged over the line by Josh Brody. Within minutes Fleming seized on a Brentwood clearance and went around the keeper for his second goal.

A rare Brentwood attack produced a free hit on the 25 metre line which was not cleared allowing the winger to ghost in and score inside the far post. This spurred Thurrock back to life and Fleming claimed his hat-trick when he received a pass from Dave Everett and flicked into the net. In the final minutes Jimmy Venus maintained his goal-a- game record when he drew the keeper before hammering the ball into the net.

LADIES II      1 -  2   PHOENIX 2

Thurrock were playing one of the top teams in the league and were a bit unsure how hard this game would be. Tees fielded a strong team that had bonded well over the last few games.

Thurrock pressured Phoenix from the start, knowing that they had to be strong and play hard. It was a very attacking game from both sides, with short corners being awarded at both ends. The first goal of the match came from one of these short corners, hit hard out by Karen Lucking, followed by a cracking shot from Sally Willett. Half time came seeing Thurrock leading one nil.

Second half started well for Phoenix with them scoring at the whistle. This woke up the Thurrock side and made them more determined to get something from the game.

From a long corner, Sally Willett found Fay Tuffee at the top of the circle, who rolled the ball inside the D and shot with Lauren Marshall deflecting the ball into the net. They thought they had taken the lead but an adamant Phoenix umpire said it was no goal, which shocked Thurrock.

With their heads still held high, the home side continued the match creating more chances, but it was to be Phoenix day when a penalty flick was awarded which found the back of the net.

Thurrock deserved more from this game, and even though they had lost, they showed how far they have come as a team and that they can challenge any team they face. A very positive game for all players.

WAPPING II     2 - 1      THURROCK

Thurrock went into the game full of confidence after after last week's win but it was Wapping that had the better start and looked dangerous from the off. The Thurrock defence stood firm to stop the Wapping attacks but eventually the home side took the lead from a short corner. Tees respond well and started to put some attacks together and Matt Gaut was put through on goal only to be fouled by the goalkeeper, Tommy Ing then had his well struck short corner saved by the goalkeeper, just before half-time Sandeep Gahir kept his composure to slot the ball past the goalkeeper to make it 1-1. The second half was more even with both teams looking to take the lead but the Thurrock defence and man of the match Andy Sargeant were organised to stop any attacks. With 15 minutes to go Wapping were awarded a penalty flick that they scored to go 2-1 up. The remainder for the game Thurrock dominated play looking for the equalising goal but eventually run out of time.

Next week Thurrock host West Herts at Palmers College at 12.30

WAPPING VI     0 - 2      THURROCK II

Three games into the season, and with just a point to show for their efforts, the 2s were beginning to wonder where their first win would come from. Little did they expect that it would come from a visit to their old tormentors Wapping. Two seasons ago, when the sides were last in the same division, this tie would have had home win written all over it, but Thurrock are a much stronger club now, and with young players like George Horgan and man of the match Sam Webb emerging, they are likely to get stronger. From the off Webb looked as though he had been playing at this level for years, his clean tackling, determination, and pace was just what the Tees had been lacking, and he gelled immediately with right half Jeff West, the two interchanging regularly to confuse the Wapping midfield.

Dec Millane made a welcome return to the 2s front line, getting into dangerous positions, but failing to get the final shot off on too many occasions. Darren Higgins should have put Thurrock ahead but was thwarted by the onrushing keeper.

It was left to Jordan Salmon to put the 2s ahead in a game for the first time this season, lifting the ball into the top corner from a short corner.

The half time team talk was a much easier one for skipper Keith Mager to give than in previous weeks, just keep doing what you’ve been doing and they won’t score, and that’s exactly what his team did. Wapping didn’t threaten the goal once in the second half, whereas Thurrock pressed for the full 35 minutes. Millane eventually got his stick to the ball in front of goal, giving the keeper no chance, and taking the result beyond doubt.

Thurrock face Maldon & Little Baddow at Palmer’s on Saturday.

THURROCK III      4 - 1     SOUTHEND III

From the start Thurrock went onto the attack and went into the lead after five minutes when Josh Bradley collected a pass from Himesh Patel and beat the Southend right back before passing for Dave Leeks to score. Thurrock maintained their momentum and a shot by Ricky Smith from the edge of the D was saved by the keeper but Jimmy Venus pounced on the rebound and put the ball into the net. Two substitutions at half time saw Southend come out much stronger and after 45 minutes they were rewarded by a goal when a Thurrock defender was caught in possession and the ball deflected off the post past keeper Danny Hick. Thurrock were spurred into action and Matthew Skinner (right) made a weaving run on the right before entering the D and hammering the ball towards the goal. As the keeper moved across to cover the shot, Gary Venus deflected it into the roof of the net. Thurrock increased their lead when a shot by Jimmy Venus was stopped on the line by a defender’s foot, Venus took the penalty flick for his second goal. Five minutes from time Jimmy Venus was unlucky not to get his hat-trick when his shot shaved the outside of the post. Thurrock now have two weeks without a game due two team missing from their league.

THURROCK     6 - 2     CROSTYX

Thurrock Mens 1st team lined up against Crostyx II without their captain Steve Abbott recovering from a vital early season operation, however this did not stop the team romping to victory over challenging opposition.They started with purpose bagging three goals in the first 10 minutes. Matty Gaut bagging a brace and one from man of the match Christian Jenkins. Such was their dominance that they could have had easily doubled the score but that was it until half time. After the break Crosytx upped the pace and scored quickly before the Tees restored the three goal advantage through Matt Lever. There was even more time for two more goals from Thurrock before the end of the game with Matt Lever completing a double and Matty Gaut completed his hatrick. The game ended with Thurrock winning comfortably 6-2 and are fourth in the table.

On Saturday they are away to Wapping II at 1 pm

THURROCK II     1 - 2    COLCHESTER III

The 2s are still searching for their first win in Div 5SE after another closely fought but ultimately disappointing game at Palmer’s College on Saturday afternoon.

Thurrock were without four regulars from their starting line up, so had to promote from the 3s and 4s, and although the team played well and created more opportunities than Colchester, the visiting defence were extremely well drilled.

Colchester were one up at half time, but Mike Hewing pulled the Tees back level early on in the second half from a penalty corner. For the third game in a row, the 2s were the stronger side in the second half, but again failed to capitalise on their dominance. Liam Birch was creating chances from the middle of the pitch, but without their usual forward line up they couldn’t find the net again. With 10 minutes left on the clock Colchester countered quickly and restored their advantage, knocking the wind out of Thurrock’s sails.

The 2s visit Wapping IV on Saturday afternoon at 2.30 pm.

BRENTWOOD V       1 - 2     THURROCK III

The score does not reflect this Division 8SE game in which Thurrock dominated from the first whistle. After 10 minutes Jimmy Venus collected a pass from Tom Archer and went around the keeper before putting the ball into the net.  Thurrock maintained their pressure and Josh Brady was unlucky not to add to the score when he made a solo run from the half way line and beat the keeper only to see his shot graze the outside of the post. Within minutes Brady seized on a mishit clearance and dribbled through the defence to shoot. However he was thwarted by the diving keeper’s outstretched stick. Tom Madden made a strong run on the right and centred for Mat Skinner to slip the ball to Venus whose shot was deflected wide. In the second half a rare Brentwood breakaway found Thurrock pushing too far up the field and although Danny Hick saved the initial shot, the rebound fell kindly for an attacker to level the score. This spurred Brentwood and they attacked in numbers, however full back Sam Webb was alert and made a series of important tackles to repel the threat. Thurrock regained the upper hand and pressurised the home defence who held out until the sixtieth minute when Venus received a pass from Himesh Patel and flicked the ball into the top corner of the net for his second goal to seal Thurrock’s victory

The Thirds are home at Palmers to Southend III, 11 am pushback

THURROCK ACADEMY     1 - 2     REDBRIDGE & ILFORD ACADEMY

Thurrock’s new Men’s Academy team did not get off to the best of starts against Redbridge and Ilford and conceded an early goal after 10 minutes.

But they recovered to play some good hockey with Liam Birch scoring the equaliser just before half time. With great effort from the Thurrock midfield, man of the match Josh Bridges pushed Thurrock forward, with some great chances from Freddie Taylor and Byron Woods, but to no result. With 10 minutes to spare the opposition beat the defence to score the winner. The Academy team is still looking for their first win of the season with the score finishing 1-2.

This Saturday the Academy are away to Saffron Walden 7, 10

BRENTWOOD I 5 - 1 THURROCK I

Tees went into the second game of the season on a high after beating East London at home 1-0. This weeks game was played in 29 degree heat and with some pace, with both teams defending off the counter attacks. However it was Brentwood that drew first blood by slotting it past Man of the Match Andy Gaut in goal and that's how it ended at halftime.

The second half saw Tees come out fighting but where thwarted by a resolute home defence. Thurrock where caught out again with two well worked short corners followed by a fierce strike from the top and a close up deflection. They never gave up and where rewarded with a goal two minutes from time.

The Firsts play Crostyx II this Saturday at Palmers, 11 am start

CHELMSFORD IV 1 - 1 THURROCK II

Chelmer Park isn’t a venue where you expect to pick up easy points, and with three 13 year olds making their Second team debut, the Twos would have taken a point before the match begun.

Tees had easily the better start though, and should have taken the lead at least once but failed to put enough pressure on the Chelmsford keeper from a series of penalty corners. Chelmsford broke the deadlock on 25 minutes with a passage which another umpire would have penalised on another day, with a ball lifted close to defender Rick Clubb’s body, play was allowed to go on, and a simple lift over the advancing keeper allowed the home forward to volley home.

With the game being played in the sweltering late summer heat, both sides were grateful for an extended half time break to allow the freshly watered pitch to dry out adequately, however when play was restarted the ball wasn’t rolling as well as it should, and a through ball from Matt Leaver was held up in a puddle before it reached forward Darren Higgins in a dangerous position in front of goal. Undeterred, the Twos pressurised their hosts into a series of defensive mistakes, and surely with a full strength XI would have scored sooner than they did.

The goal came when a goalbound shot was deflected wide by a defender’s foot. Leaver stepped up to take the resulting flick, which he calmly slid under the keeper’s diving body.

The Twos were rightly pleased with their first point of the season, with special praise going to future stars Tom Archer, Byron Wood, Freddie Taylor and George Horgan who never looked out of place playing in NE14 Hockey Division 5SE.

Thurrock entertain Colchester at Palmer’s next week, pushing back at 12.30pm.

THURROCK III 4 - 0 COLCHESTER IV

Thurrock began the game strongly and after five minutes went into the lead when Liam Birch collected the ball on the edge of the 25m line and dribbled through the Colchester defence before slipping it past the advancing keeper. Ten minutes later, Jimmy Venus made it 2-0 when he collected a pass from Himesh Patel and fired into the net from the edge of the area. Colchester drove forward from the restart and put together a series of passes which took them into the Thurrock area however right back Sam Webb was alert and dispossessed the centre forward before he could shoot. Colchester were becoming more threatening and keeper Danny Hick was called upon to make a series of saves to thwart the attack.

Five minutes before half time Matthew Skinner made a run on the right before centring for Michael Fleming to round the keeper and make it 3-0. Thurrock continued to play the better hockey in the second half but a strong Colchester defence held them back until, after 60 minutes, Matthew Fleming, playing his first game for two years, seized on a rebounded shot off the keeper and flicked the ball into the net.

Thurrock play Brentwood IV this Saturday, 12.30 start at Hannikans Farm, Billericay

THURROCK I     5 - 0      BRENTWOOD

The Ladies First team were able to filed a strong team and were lucky to have a squad of 12 which was very helpful in the heat! They are proving to be exceptionally strong force in this league and yet again came away with another resounding win of 5-0! In the last three games the Ladies have scored 21 goals. The defence remained almost onlookers whilst Ally Bonner (2), Miriam Nicholls (2) and Katie Jacks all got onto the score sheet. All players performed well with Lou Pike having a noteworthy performance.

This Saturday Ladies I away to Blackheath I

REDBRIDGE & ILFORD     5 - 0      THURROCK II

The Ladies Second team were not so fortuitous and were in the position of fielding an exceptionally young and inexperienced team. Captain Charlene Curtis has fought valiantly throughout the week to field a team and despite her inspirational leadership the team lost 5-0. Faye Tuffee was outstanding for the ladies and a true inspiration to her younger teammates.

On Saturday Ladies II are away to Essex University

THURROCK ACADEMY 0 – 0 WALTHAM FOREST IV

Thurrock’s new Men’s 4th team, the Academy side under new captain Dave Everett, got off to a good start against Waltham Forest’s 4th team. An early break by Thurrock nearly resulted in a goal as Byron Wood and Freddie Taylor worked together to break down their opponent’s defence but with no result.

Waltham Forest come back hard but the good work of Thurrock’s defence shone through with an outstanding performance from Sam Webb keeping them out. New Thurrock player and man of the match Josh Brady worked tirelessly to push Thurrock forward in his first ever game. In the end a fair result of two evenly paired teams finished in a goal-less draw for the first game of the season in Div 9SE.

Next Saturday the Academy are away to Witham 4 at 11 am

THURROCK II 1 – 3 EAST LONDON II

With the first team skipper having an embarrassment of riches to choose from, the 2s were able to field their strongest line up in years. However East London were one of the top sides in NE14 Hockey Division 5SE last season, and turned up to Palmer’s with an equally talented squad.

Thurrock’s defence struggled to get to grips with the visitor’s pacey forwards, and gave away far too many penalty corners in the first period. East London didn’t capitalise on the first four or five, but eventually got one right, slipping the ball back to the injector to tap in easily inside the unguarded near post.

The Tees changed formation in the second half, with centre midfielder Ash Snell’s game coming to an early end due to a muscle pull, and forward Rick Smith coming on to replace him. Thurrock were arguably the better team in the second half, and after a few near misses equalised when Matt Gaut put away a penalty flick.

Thurrock thought that they had taken the lead when Gaut smashed the ball into the keeper’s pads and into the roof of the net from a penalty corner, however the umpire ruled the goal out saying that the strike wasn’t going to hit the backboard before the deflection.

The Londoners were gifted their second goal when a defensive hit out was passed straight to one of their midfielders. A quick lay off to the visiting striker led to a simple pass into the Tees’ goal.

With two minutes left on the clock, and Thurrock in danger of losing for the first time since November 2010, skipper Keith Mager pushed defenders Gary Ginsburgh, Chris Smith and Mike Hewing up to try to grab an equaliser, but a quick counter attack led to East London having a three on one attack, and an easy third goal.

The 2s will be hoping to kick start their season on Saturday when they visit Chelmsford.

THURROCK 1 – 0 EAST LONDON

Thurrock went into the season with a new coach and new players to the first team squad, also with a few players out through injury. Thurrock started quick off the blocks attacking the opposition with some fluid passing, although the visitors hit back with some great play of their own forcing Man of the Match Andy Gaut to make some fine saves. The tees and the visitors traded blows right the way to half time.

After the restart the game got sloppy and fragmented with both teams left frustrated with the game. Then que Sandeep Gahir at the short corner to hammer home his first of the season on his league debut. This spurred both teams into action and this lead to a very tense and nervous end to the game with the tees relieved to hear the final whistle.

SEVENOAKS 4 1 – 4 THURROCK 1

The game started with T’s applying immediate pressure and this spurred on the ladies to completely believe in themselves. Early pressure resulted in Miriam Nicholls setting up a great goal for captain Tessa Ing to hammer home. The second goal came from set play where Sally Ellis was on hand to pick up from yet another fine shot from Ing.

Despite being behind Sevenoaks came back with force but stirling defence from T’s kept the clean sheet until eventually Sevenoaks broke through and narrowed the deficit. At half-time it was 2-1 and the Ladies galvanised their efforts and started the second half in a dominating mood. Good work between Lou Parrott and Katie Jacks saw Jacks put the Ladies further ahead. Strong leadership from Ing inspired some fine attacking play from Jacks and Alison Bonner. Jacks’ running resulted in yet another fine goal for her.

A great start for the Ladies. On Saturday the Firsts are away at Holcombe

WAPPING 4 3 – 1 THURROCK 2

The Ladies begin this season having lost five of their regulars from the previous season. This is a great opportunity for the ‘youngsters ‘ to make their mark. They were also affected by unavailability. Sally Taylor making her debut for the club proved how valuable she is going to be by being the lone goal scorer and also putting in a very good performance in defence and supporting her young team mates. Wapping as usual proved to be a very strong team and the young players all equipped themselves so well.

It was however goalkeeper Kerry Dent who was ‘player of the match’ with a performance that belies her young years. Her starring moment was making a spectacular save from a penalty flick.

Despite the scoreline the ladies must take pride in this fine display.

The Seconds are home to Chelmsford 4 on Saturday, 11 am start

LADIES 3 7 – 1 EAST LONDON 2

The 3rds fielded an exceptionally strong team and certainly stamped their mark on this Div 3 game. The Ladies dominated and East London could only stand and marvel at the speed and skill of the team. Kelly Bentley making her debut in goal was a spectator but on the odd occasion East London broke through she proved her worth by clearing the ball with ease. Abbie Pollock and Rebecca Abiona both making their debuts proved that they will be real assets to the Ladies by playing with confidence and making great contributions.

Sally Willett was unstoppable and caused the opposition immense problems and scored an outstanding hat trick. Becky Grant who as usual never stopped running and picking up those fine passes coming from the defence was running circles around their defence and she too scored a hat trick. Emma Grant also got in on the action and added to the scoreline after having helped assist many of the others

A good start to the season and the ladies are feeling confident with their performances.

The Thirds are away to Oakway this Saturday

THURROCK 1 0 – 7 COLCHESTER 1

Thurrock started well against a well drilled Colchester side who reside two leagues above in the East Hockey league. The Tees’ defence were put under pressure but newcomer Kyle Taylor, man of the man Andy Sargeant, Tommy Ing and Jordan Salmon worked tirelessly with Andy Gaut making a couple of fine saves. The score at half time was four nil.

During the summer, Thurrock picked up new players namely Dan O’Shaughnessy and Liam O’Reem who tried to start passing with Nick Stapleton and Barney Knowles in midfield. They managed to gain a few penalty corners but unfortunately Tees could not capitalise on these which lead to breaks where Colchester scored five more goals. Youngsters Liam Appleyard and Declan Millane tried their best to penetrate the Colchester defence but were out numbered on numerous occasions.

Tees now look forward to their first league game of the season at home against East London in Division 2S, 12.30 start.

THURROCK 2 3 – 0 WINCHMORE HILL & ENFIELD

With the opening game of the season just one week away, the men were far from full strength, even having to draft in some old faces, so to not only beat newly their newly promoted opponents, but to beat them convincingly, showed just how far the club has progressed in the last year or so. Last year the Seconds travelled to North London to play the same side in a pre-season friendly and were soundly beaten. This year the game looked as though it could go the same way, with Thurrock looking a shadow of the side which won 13 games in a row in the second half of last season. The visitors were unlucky to reach half time without finding the back of the net, but centre back Gary Ginsburgh wasn’t going to give the forwards any easy chances.

The second half couldn’t have been any more different from the first. Now the defence were supporting the midfield, allowing the quartet of Ashley Snell, Kevin Appleyard, Jeff West and Liam Appleyard to push forward and help Darren Higgins and Rick Smith in front of goal. Rick Smith put Thurrock a goal up early on in the second half, and from then on it was all one way traffic. Darren Higgins found the net twice on his return to his old team.

The Seconds will be hoping to carry on their winning streak next Saturday when East London visit Palmer’s college at 12.30.

Mens Training Resumes Wednesday 17th of August @ 8pm till 10pm.

Will be a mixture of fitness and stick work, please attend as we have a new coach this season and we'd love to give him a great start with a massive turnout.

Congratulations to:

DEREK STATON FOR WINNING THE TOMMY HARINGTON TROPHY FOR CLUB MEMBER OF THE YEAR! Jordan Salmon for picking up the Mens 1XI player of the Season and Donkey of the Season Ben (Barney) Knowles for picking up the Mens 2XI player of the Season Sam Webb (not pictured) for picking up the Mens 3XI player of the Season Mike Murray for picking up the Mens top Goal Scorer Dave (Bob) Leeks for picking up the Mens Indoor Player of the Season Tessa Ing for picking up the Womens 1XI Player of the Season Karen Lucking for picking up the Womens 2XI Player of the Season and also the Womens Top Scorer Charlotte Adnams for picking up the Womens 3XI Player of the Season Katie Lawrence for picking up the Womens most improved player

THURROCK 3 v 0 CLACTON

Thurrock’s first eleven knew that the penultimate match of the season was an important one. Just one point would clinch the NE14HOCKEY Division SE3 league title and see them promoted.

Thurrock started nervously against a physical Clacton side who started playing the better hockey but were held back by strong defending from Tommy Ing, Andy Sargeant, Luke Danbrook and man of the match Jordan Salmon.

Goalkeeper Andy Gaut dealt with any attack with a couple of fine saves. After 20 minutes Thurrock’s Christian Jenkins broke the deadlock with an individual piece of skill which saw him score the first goal. The first half ended 1-0 to Thurrock.

After a half time talk by captain Steve Abbott Thurrock came out motivated and determined. Good team passing from Matt Gaut and Matthew Leaver enabled Steve Abbott to score Thurrock’s second goal settling any nerves the team previously had.

Tees continued to play convincingly with some great play midfield from Nicky Stapleton and Andre Rudder managing to consolidate the lead with a third goal from Christian Jenkins 10 minutes from full time.

Thurrock are now promoted to Division 2 South for the first time in nearly 30 years. Coach Andre Rudder said “Steve Abbott has been an excellent captain bringing the best out of his team. It has been a fantastic year for Thurrock Men’s hockey with both the Firsts and Seconds being crowned champions.

Numbers have been up and a young third eleven team have found their way in Division 8 with a new fourth team playing friendlies.

We are now on the lookout for next season’s players to strengthen the club throughout. Anyone interested should contact the club via the website www.thurrockhockey.com”.

On Saturday the Firsts are away to Upminster II at 1 pm

With most other games being cancelled due tothe winter conditions, the Men’s 1st XI travelled to sunny Clacton in a toptable clash. The Tee's went into this game with a dip in form and looking for agood win against the old foe Clacton.

This clash was always going to be a fast pacedphysical game, but it was Clacton that where the quickest out of the blocksputting the Tee's defence under pressure, but this was mopped up by the defencetime and time again. This frustrated the home team as every strong passingattack was rewarded with nothing.

After the first few minutes the Tee's upped theirgame and put together some fantastic passing moves of their own coming closenumerous times but where thwarted by a resolute Clacton defence.

The Tee's came out after a inspiring half timeteam talk and their tenacity was rewarded in the second half time when CaptainSteve Abbott pounced on to a rebound and rifled a low shot past the keeper togive the team some breathing room. The two teams traded attack after attack foranother 20 minutes, with Man of the Match Keeper Andy Gaut making a string of savesto deny Clacton an equaliser. After an injury to striker Jacob Agoro, 1st teamdebutant Dave Leeks took to the field to stretch his legs.

With 2 minutes left on the clock Matt Gaut poppedup in the D to deflect the ball past the keeper to seal the points for a hardfought win.

The Men's 1st XI next host Upminster at 11am at Palmers before the mid season break.

Training Times