It’s always a joyful day when, in the words of Jake and Elwood Blues, “We’re getting the band back together”.
And so our hockey season began with Chard 2nd XI taking on Taunton Vale 5ths at home.

The start of the season is met with the trials and tribulations of team selection, due to departures, retirements, new faces and the return of old ones.
Chard elected for a simple 3-3-4 formation, reflecting our strengths from last season.

Tony reassumed his spot as 2nds keeper with a solid performance and clean sheet in goal… cerebral, analytical and willing to use his head at any opportunity.
Steve at sweeper was predatory as ever, like an orca toying with its prey, even teasing the opposing centre forward with passes across the goalmouth under his nose.
Tom at centre back was solid as a rock, as if every fibre of his body was composed of stone. His exuberance for the new season even resulted in a number of forays up to the far end, which appeared to cause his compadre, Steve, some separation anxiety.
Arthur was still wiping the sleep out of his eyes upon arrival at the pitch, but rose like a phoenix, with a sterling game at right back.
Rich showed that a little talent can go a long way… while also, as captain, imparting his enthusiasm and wisdom at every opportunity.
Dan, on his recent ascent from the juniors, showed that he was more than capable of taking on the challenges of the senior game, covering tremendous ground and putting in great tackles and interceptions.
Ben S was the keystone of the team at centre midfield, thoroughly deserving the honour of man of the match. He distributed the ball around the pitch with perfectly-weighted passes and wonderful insight for creating attacking opportunities… Not to mention his several ferocious shots on goal.
Archie was a revelation in his new role at left midfield. He constantly frustrated the opposing midfielders with many excellently-timed tackles and quick passes that were pivotal in the counter-attack.
Oscar at right midfield abounded with energy and ambition to take on the opposing defence, with dribbling incursions of military precision.
Ollie showed that when he found space on the right wing, his galloping runs left the opposition in their tracks and he fired in many crosses.
JD made a dazzling return to the club after… if his shorts are anything to believe… playing for the United Nations. It was evident that the old magic was still there, even if the legs were a little older.
And lastly, Noah at centre forward showed great composure in holding up the ball and adeptly slipping it around the D, while also seizing on many shooting opportunities… ultimately resulting in a well-deserved goal.

All in all, it was a great team performance. And if the opposing keeper hadn’t had such a proficient game, the scoreline could have shone significantly more in our favour. There are a few things to work on, but in conclusion, it was a wonderfully encouraging (and most enjoyable) start to the season.

Thanks to match sponsor: LIFT Fitness at Crewkerne.