Sunday 6th April

Slazenger National League Div2N 1st XI Vs Doncaster (A)  Lost 1 – 4 Joe Finding

City's National League season finished on a low note when they were comfortably beaten by second placed Doncaster . Weakened by a last minute call off through illness by Scott Gilmour and with player coach Kalbir Takher not thinking it worth risking an injury, some players were playing out of position.  This enabled young Tom Hagues to get valuable experience at this level but Doncaster steadily built a lead and it was only a late strike reverse stick strike from Joe Finding that provided some consolation. Overall however to finish one place higher this season (5th ) than last was a tremendous achievement especially with chief goal scorer Gareth Andrew having moved on to Premier Division side Cannock.

Saturday 5th April

NE14Hockey Men's East League Prem B 2nd XI Vs West Herts 1st XI (A)  Lost 1 - 2  Andrew Cave

City 2nd XI lost their last game of their promotion season thereby conceding the Championship to Wisbech. After conceding a first minute goal, City slowly took over and a typical Cave strike from a short corner levelled the match. The second half was very even and the result could have gone either way but it was West Herts who scored the vital goal with only 2 minutes to go. It has been a tremendous season for this tight knit team which has secured successive promotions but it is accepted that City will have to improve their team and play to make progress in Premier A next season.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Spalding 1st XI  (H)   Won 5 -1 Matthew Sutterby (2), Mark Britton, Sam Ure & Elliott Stevens

City 3rd XI did all they could do in winning their last league game to remain ahead of Ipswich 3rd XI on goal difference but do not expect their rivals to falter in their remaining fixture Vs Felixstowe.  City dominated the match and although Spalding put up a determined fight, with their goalkeeper having an outstanding game, the result only really condemned Spalding to relegation.  City were always in front but their tendency to over commit people forward often found them stretched at the back by Spalding's fast running youngsters. Only a man of the match display by Jonathan Sortwell prevented further goals. Overall this was a fine season for Mike Yeoman's mix of youth, experience and more experience. The most welcome sight was that of young Elliott Stevens completing his recovery from a very serious knee injury incurred in the early part of the season and he scored a fine near post goal.

Div 3NW  - 4th XI Vs Rutland 1st XI (H)   Won 3 -1 Wayne Humphreys, Chris Samuel & Matt Ferguson.

A well motivated City 4th XI turned in a solid end of season performance to overtake Rutland in Div 3NW.  This completes an excellent season in a very competitive league. Goals from the prolific Wayne Humphreys, Skipper Chris Samuels (as usual deadly from 3 cm) and very promising youngster Matt Ferguson with only a “soft” penalty stroke registering for Rutland meant a fine finish to the season's league fixtures.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Market Deeping 2nd XI (A)  Won 4 -1 Matt Bond (2) & Chris Porter (2)

City's 5th XI continued their improved performances in the latter part of the season with an efficient performance with strikers Matt Bond and Chris Porter both scoring twice and excelling in a decisive victory over Market Deeping 2nd XI. Adam Dudley was awarded the man of the match accolade for his performance in midfield and skipper Tom Handley was pleased to finish a sometimes difficult season on a high note.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs Horncastle 1st XI (A)  Lost 2 – 7 Richard Herbage & Tom Wadsworth

City were brought down to earth after the confirmation of their promotion last week when facing the champions Horncastle away from home with a weakened side particularly defensively. A relaxed home side made sure they enjoyed their day as everything they tried seemed to come off for them. City did restore some pride, dominating the final 15 minutes and being rewarded with good goals for guest veteran Richard Herbage and Tom wadsworth. Overall skipper Graham Finding was very pleased with the season's performance securing back to back promotions, and with satisfactory progress being made by the batch of youngsters, learning off the backs of the experienced old hands.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Spalding 3rd XI (H)  Drew 2 - 2  Jon Bigham & Peter Hings

City dispelled any final doubts about possible relegation with a solid display at Spalding although a late equaliser for the home side caused a late flutter of concern. Captain “Aussie” Dave Simpson was relieved to get the result but overall this was a game that City should have won especially when goals from Jon Bigham and Peter Hings had given them the lead.

Div 7NW - 8th XI Vs March Town 5 th XI (A)  Lost 0 - 11

City's combination of very old and very young were put to the sword by an excellent March Town 4 th XI who clinched the league title with this win. The question has to be asked why such a team was in this league when March 3rd XI will now be relegated from the league above – it made a mockery of what many believe division 7NW is for i.e. to give competitive hockey to the youngest players and contribute to their development.

Captain Peter Leaton has been pleased with the great progress shown by many of the 13 and 14 year old players but this match put a severe dampener on the end of the season.

East Veterans League Vets Vs Shefford & Sandy Vets  (H) Lost 0 - 3

City Vets proud home record finally fell against a very good Shefford & Sandy side that have finished a good second in the league to the clearly superior Ipswich side.  City bolstered by a few guests from other teams within the club had the better of the first half but the S&S keeper was in fine form.  In the second half City spurned 2 presentable early chances and as they tired mistakes crept in and S&S took over to win comfortably in the end. Martin Collcott expressed some satisfaction with a 50% record over the season especially as the average age of the team is now consistently over 55 when often the opposition can be 5 to 10 years lower on average.

Saturday 29th March

Slazenger National LeagueDiv 2N 1st XI Vs Stourport (H)   Won 7 – 3 Scott Beach (2), Sean Gilmour (2), Scott Gilmour, Alex Boxall & Kalbir Takher

City gained a comfortable win in their last home game of the season against an under-strength Stourport side and regained 5th position in their division which if they can retain with just Doncaster (A) to be played would be a very creditable performance. Although the early run of play was about even, a fine reverse stick shot from Scott Beach and a Gilmour feeding Gilmour, Sean to Scott flowing move soon put City 2 up. However Stourport replied and at 2 -1 at the break it looked a tight match. Two goals immediately afterwards settled the game and despite one glaring defensive error City played well to come out comfortable winners.

NE14Hockey Men's East League

Prem B 2nd XI Vs Colchester 1stXI (H)   Won 2 – 1   Brendan Sullivan & Neil Lake

City made hard work of winning against relegation threatened Colchester who played some good possession hockey in the first half and took the lead through a well executed drag flick from a short corner. City had a few chances but generally lacked the pace to penetrate a well drilled defence. Manager Peter Lambert's “gentle” half time talk did prompt better passing and ball pace from City and they took control and soon equalised through a Brendan Sullivan strike after a short corner miss pass routine.  City continue to press and create chances without any real cutting edge until a series of substitutions meant that skipper Neil Lake had to take charge at a short corner and he duly showed the preferred strikers how it should be done by driving home the winning goal.  City are still only behind Wisbech on goal difference but there is unlikely to be any slip up on their part.

Div 2N  -  3rd XI Vs March Town 1 st XI  (A)    Won 9 – 2  Shayne Andrews (4), Jim Tansley (3), Josh Young & Sam Ure

A very strong and experienced City 3rd XI duly put rock-bottom March to the sword. With this victory they overtook Ipswich 3rd XI taking second place in the division on goal difference but with Ipswich having a game in hand promotion still remains a remote possibility.  Man of the match Matthew Sutterby

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Market Deeping 1st XI (A)    Drew 4 – 4  Stuart Bond, Martin Hill, Matt Ferguson & Wayne Humphreys.

This was a tremendous result for City who stuck to their game plan well under the strong driving of skipper Chris Samuel and in the end just about deserved their point. 1- 0 up after the first short corner in the first minute this game see-sawed until the controversial award of a penalty stroke to City which Wayne Humphreys expertly despatched to create a 4 – 2 lead. Deeping soon replied but it was 4 – 3 at half time. Deeping improved in the second half and pressed very hard creating enough chances to have scored more than the one goal that brought the equaliser including hitting the post with 2 minutes left and drawing 3 or 4 good saves from Michael Green in the City goal. There were several fine performances from City players but Ian Martin was outstanding in midfield.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Cambridge City 5 th XI (H)  Won 3 – 0  Tom Handley, Harry Cutforth & Ryan Evans

City 5th XI ensured their position in Div 4NW with a competent display against a battlingCambridge side who held out until midway through the second half when man of the match, Skipper Tom Handley, deflected the ball home in a goal mouth scramble. City then relaxed and played some good flowing hockey to score further goals through Cutforth and Evans to finish comfortable winners in the end.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs March Town 3rd XI (H)  Won 3 – 2 Richard Herbage(2) & Graham Finding

City 6th XI were given a severe fright by March 3rd XI who pulled back from being 1-0 down at half time to take a 2-1 lead mid way through the second period. Peterborough's experienced players then did their bit and clinched a win as City finished strongly to secure the 3 points and promotion.  Skipper Graham Finding was particularly proud of his young side who had recovered from what appeared a disastrous loss to Bourne two weeks ago to gain a great reward for a fine season's hockey.

Div 6NW - 7th XI  Vs March Town 4th XI (H) Won 7 - 1 Kyle Doyle(3), Matthew Wallace(2) & Peter Hings(2)

With it being March's last league game of the season they were always going to come out and give it everything and this they did. After quite an even first half, City went in 1 – 0 up at half time after Kyle Doyle coolly finished a well constructed move down the right side.  March started the second half well and equalised within the first five minutes. Fortunately, this proved to be the wake up call that kicked City into action. They started to move the ball a lot more fluently and at good pace, stringing together some excellent passing moves. Peter Hings got City back in front from a short corner and then Matt Wallace finished off an excellent short corner routine to give City some breathing space. It was all City from then on with Hings and Wallace each adding another to their tallies and Kyle Doyle completing a hat-trick with two more fine goals.
An excellent win that has seen City creep closer towards safety and has done their goal difference the world of good. A win is still needed next week to definitely ensure they stay in 6NW next year.

Div 7NW  - 8th XI Vs Bourne 4th XI (A)   Won 2 - 1  Tom Megginson(2)

City bolstered by a couple more senior players than usual stole a victory against a young and skilful Bourne side that really should have got something out of the game. However, two goals from Tom Megginson allied to fine displays by the Heald brothers, and skipper Peter Leaton at the back, allowed City to squeeze a win out of a hard match.

East Veterans League Vets Vs Norwich Exiles Vets (H)   Won 3 – 0 Conceded 

- Disappointingly Norwich could not raise a team to travel.

Saturday 15th March

NE14Hockey Men's East League PremB 2nd XI Vs Bourne 1st XI (A)  Won 2 - 1   Andrew Cave & Paul Hillsdon

City eventually gained the victory they needed to clinch a promotion spot but they were thoroughly tested by a more motivated Bourne side that was in need of points to avoid being in a potential relegation place (which might depend on whether Harleston Magpies win through the play-offs to get into the National League).  Bourne started the better and their pressure was eventually rewarded when Julian Catto was left free at the far post to score. City had the better of the play for the rest of the half but could not force an equaliser.

With Jonathon Short in City's goal not touching the ball in play during the whole match, City's greater possession eventually told when Andrew Cave forced the ball home from a tight angle before leaving the field due to the recurrence of an injury incurred 2 weeks before. Bourne set out to hold on to what they had but were undone when from a short corner 4 minutes from the end Paul Hillsdon scored with a drag flick.  City remain second behind Wisbech on goal difference with 2 games to go.

Div 2N  - 3rd XI Vs Felixstowe 1st XI  (H)   Won 4 - 0  Rob Harrison, Tim Pollard, Shane Vincent & Matt Sutterby

City's mixture of youth and experience enjoyed another comfortable win which keeps them on the heels of Ipswich 3rd XI for the second promotion spot in this division. After their narrow win, Ipswich have the same points as City but a game in hand and better goal difference. City's victory was never in doubt once a rare goal from Rob Harrison had gone in, and was only disrupted by the issuing of a few yellow cards towards the end.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Bourne 2nd XI (H)    Lost 1 - 3   Chris Porter

The real Bourne turned up for this game and they were rewarded with a vital victory against a City side that battled hard but wasted several promising openings. Bourne were always in front despite a goal form City's Chris Porter that was just reward for his man of the match display. Despite this defeat City retain a lofty fourth place due to other favourable results and Bourne are now safe from any threat of relegation.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Alford 1st XI (A)  Lost 2 – 4 Matt Bond (2)

City came away quite pleased with their display against a side that is sure of promotion. After fighting back from 2 - 0 down through good goals from Matt Bond, City nearly equalised again at 2 – 3 when skipper Tom Handley's shot came back off the post.  Alford scored a late goal to give the final result an unfair scoreline.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs Cambridge South 2nd XI (A)  Lost 0 - 1

City came away depressed after not playing well and falling to a narrow defeat against a competent Cambridge South side after a below par performance all round. However with their closest rivals also losing the prospect of a second successive promotion remains in their hands.

City started this match well enough, but failed to convert early pressure into goals. The longer the game went on, the more that Cambs South took control. Late in the first half South scored from a break away attack, and from then on defended resolutely to secure the 3 points.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Wisbech 5th XI (A)  Lost 2 – 5  Alistair Bradley & Peter Hings

City found Wisbech too good for them and although they fought hard this defeat now puts them in danger of relegation unless they can win 1 or both their last 2 matches after Easter.

Div 7NW - 8th XI Vs Newmarket 2nd XI (H)   Cancelled Newmarket have withdrawn from the league

Friendly game played Old'uns 3 (Simon Round, Stuart Manning & Andy Ricketts)  Young'uns 2 (Henry Ricketts 2 + a late missed/saved penalty stroke)

East Veterans League Vets Vs Harleston Magpies Vets (H)    Won  2 – 1  Wayne Humphreys (2)

City Vets were again bolstered by the inclusion of first team player/manager Adam Drake and this proved vital against a Harleston side that as usual was at its combative best. Harleston took an early lead and City were hard pressed to get back into the game. However, as we have seen several times this season City's never say die attitude (and superior fitness?) carried them through to what looked at one stage to be an unlikely victory. Wayne Humphreys came up with the goods with 2 great finishes and City continue to be very difficult side to beat on their “own turf”.

Sunday 9th March

Slazenger National League Div 2N - 1st XI Vs Barford Tigers (H)   Lost 3 – 4  Adam Drake, Joe Finding & Scott Beach

This was a very lack lustre display from City who were outplayed in the first half by a skilful and fast moving Barford side.  City seemed to try to play too much hockey in the wrong places and were often caught in possession which on 2 notable occasions Barford severely punished.

1 – 3 down at half time was the best City could have hoped for with Andy Grimwood in regular action in goal. The first goal in the second half was always going to be important and unfortunately this went to Barford when player-coach, Kalbir Takhir, was beaten on the halfway line and a swift break left City's defence outnumbered.  City did find some spirit to fight back and Barford started to wilt under the pressure receiving 2 yellow cards.  City got one back form a fine flowing move which resulted in Scott Gilmour setting up Joe Finding and then Scott Beach notched a drag flick from a short corner. In the last minute another drag flick was saved by the Barford keeper and Adam Drake drove his shot against the post. Nearly but not quite a result that eventually City thought they deserved.

Saturday 8th March

NE14Hockey Men's East League Prem B - 2nd XI Vs Chelmsford 2nd XI (H)   Won 5 – 0   Joe Lester, Craig Petrie, Nick Pucacco & Joe Bradley (2)

City 2nd XI took a while to settle but in the end played well enough to record a comfortable victory.  The players that impressed were some of the younger ones with Nick Pucacco seizing the chance of his recent promotion to give a promising display in midfield, which allowed Tom Hagues to play further forward where he caused all sorts of problems for the Chelmsford defence.  However the man of the match accolade went to Joe Bradley who excelled in centre midfield and scored two second half goals. City now just need one more win from their last 3 games to win promotion.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Cambridge City 4th   XI  (A)    Won 4 – 0   Shayne Andrews (2), Mike Yeoman & Shane Vincent

With the top of the table clash in this division resulting in a promotion clinching win for St Ives over Ipswich 3 rd XI, City kept their promotion hopes alive with a comfortable win in Cambridge .  Three of the goals came from the old Maestros (except Aggi Milner) and another Jim Tansley was considered by many to be man of the match.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Cambridge University 3rd   XI (A)   Lost 1 – 3  Jack Cartwright  

City 4th XI surprised the University side by taking the lead through a Jack Cartwright strike which was the first goal they had conceded in the league since before the Christmas break.  However the very young and fit University side gradually took over and despite City's efforts they won tidily in the end to consolidate their promotion place behind Market Deeping in this division.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Boston 1st   XI (H)  Lost 0 - 6

Not much to say here, as City were comprehensively outworked and outplayed by a very good and effective Boston 1st XI.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs Bourne 3rd XI (H)  Lost 4 – 5   Marcus Howard (2), Aaron Nicholls & David Cooper

This result was a great disappointment for City, as Bourne now have a realistic chance of catching them for the second promotion position.  Bourne took the opportunity of safety for their 2nd XI to promote some regular 3rd teamers, resulting in a changed side which worked very effectively on the break, scoring 4 first half goals from perhaps only 5 attempts, on a day when the normally sound City defence performed well below its best. This was a very open game as City, with 13 year old Marcus Howard prominent up front, scored 3 of their own for a 3 – 4 half time score.  City had the better of the second half as after scoring a fifth goal Bourne sought to hang on to what they had.  However, despite forcing the Bourne keeper to make several telling interventions, City could only force 1 more goal through Aaron Nicholls.

Div 6NW - 7th XI  - No game

Div 7NW - 8th XI Vs Boston 3rd XI (A)   Lost 2 – 7  Stuart Manning & Simon Round

City's mix of the very young and quite old was eventually put to the sword by a much stronger Boston side, although the rather one sided final score failed to reflect the true balance of play. Cameron Heald and Matt Anderson shone for City.

East Veterans League Vs Chelmsford Vets (H)   Drew  2 – 2  Richard Herbage & John Dakin

City Vets were second best to a good Chelmsford side for a long time in this game but came back strongly to force a draw in the last 5 minutes.  0 – 1 down at half time to a short corner goal was a fair reflection of the game at half time. City were restricted by a few walking wounded and the not uncommon occurrence of Richard Herbage voluntarily almost incurring a long yellow card. A freak goal then put City further behind when a completely mis-hit shot from Chelmsford 's centre forward fell for their left winger to score. City improved and pressed but it was not until the last 5 minutes that a short corner move between Herbage and Kevin Ledbrook allowed the former to score.  A similar move with a minute to go saw the ball fall to John Dakin who buried his shot to save the game.

Sunday 2nd March

Slazenger National League Div 2N 1st XI Vs University of Birmingham (A)  Lost 1 – 3  Joe Finding

On paper this was not a bad result away from home against the league leaders but City were not helped by their own indiscipline which was rewarded with lengthy yellow cards for 2 of the younger members of the squad, Greg Hopkinson and Scott Gilmour.   In addition Mark Featherstone had two  “rests” the second for an offence that was a mystery to almost everyone there except one of the umpires, this meant that for a significant part of the match The University only had 10 to beat.  This should have been a yard stick for the standard of opposition and quality needed for next year as with no promotion and the reorganisation, City will meet all of the top teams in this division plus some from the division above.  Overall this was a competitive performance but lacking the product to match a very useful team.

City went behind early to a short corner converted by the leagues top marksman, and by the 15 minute mark found themselves 3 down, although feeling agrieved to have had a good goal of their own disallowed. City actually edged the second half courtesy of a fine individual goal from left defender Joe Finding which set up a final quarter where City put together their best attacking spell. Next weekend against Barford Tigers City must improve their discipline if they are to hold onto 5th place in the league.

Saturday 1st March

NE14Hockey Men's East League Prem B - 2nd XI Vs Long Sutton 1st XI (H)  Lost 2 – 3   Paul Hillsdon & Andrew Cave

City were given a real shock by Long Sutton who came with a plan to always play 2 forwards high up the pitch and stretch City's defence. Ex-City player the legend that is Gary Hales was an integral part of this. Sutton led 1 -0 at half time which was extended to 2 when hales converted a penalty stroke immediately after half time the award of which mystified the City team and the crowd. Eventually Paul Hillsdon scored from a short corner move but Sutton broke away to score a third.  Andrew Cave scored to give City hope and the Sutton keeper and captain enhanced his reputation by adding to his catalogue of saves including a fine one at the death from another Hillsdon strike.  City now need 2 wins from their last 4 matches to be sure of promotion.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Ipswich & ES 1st XI  (A)   Lost 2 – 3   Shayne Andrews & Joe Bradley

An under strength City 3rd XI faltered badly in their pursuit of the second promotion spot in this division with a narrow defeat at 5th placed Ipswich & East Suffolk.  A fine display by Joe Bradley in midfield was unable to make the difference and with Ipswich 3rd XI winning and having a game in hand promotion now looks unlikely with only 4 games to play.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Cambs Nomads 2nd XI (H)   Won 4 – 2  Wayne Humphreys, Stuart Bond & Jack Cartwright

City played very well for 60 minutes to build a comfortable 4 – 1 lead against a good Nomads side.  However they lost their way at the end as Nomads scored, had a shot against the post and another cleared off the line. However, there were plenty of positives in the performances of Jack Cartwright up front and 2 more goals for Stuart Bond. Ian Martin and Mark Fowler continue to perform very well at this level. City, perhaps surprising themselves, are now in a solid 4th place in their division.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Peterborough Exiles (H)  Drew 1 – 1 David Cooper

In what for large part was a poor game with little of the passion that might have been expected of a local derby, City had the better of the chances but paid the penalty for not finishing their much older opponents off after taking a lead through a good finish from David Cooper mid way through the first half.  Stuart Ireland made some good saves for Exiles and after ageless Steve Browning had poached an equaliser from close range they might have stolen the game when only desperate defending kept out danger man Neil Burford.  Trevor Matthews received the man of the match tag for City for playing so well and persistently and generally minimising the threat from Burford. This result means City are relatively safe but Exiles are still in a real dog fight to avoid relegation.

Div  5NW  - 6th XI Vs Newmarket 1st XI (A)  Won 3 – 1 Marcus Howard,  Graham Finding & Aaron Nicholls

City continue their excellent run of form to clinch another win on their path to try and achieve a second sucessive promotion. An understrength City side of the bare 11, including only 3 adults were none the less too disciplined for Newmarket, recovering from going behind early to step forward and dominate the game. Aaron Nicholls was again rewarded by a goal during  his man of the match performance and young Marcus Howard notched another  to add to his growing total and reputation.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Cambridge South 3 rd XI (H)  Drew 0 – 0

Against the runaway leaders of this division, City had slightly less of the possession but still enough short corners and chances to have perhaps produced a surprise result with old hands Kevin Ledbrook and Alistair Bradley tireless in their efforts in midfield.  Cambridge South always carried a threat and only a fine display by TJ West in goal earned City a great result.  Even then he was indebted to 2 goal line clearances from Dyllan Mistry. City now look safe in this division and Skipper Dave Simpson praised his team for what was their best result of the season.

Div 7NW - 8th XI Vs St Ives 5 th XI (A)  Lost  0 - 4

An under strength City 8ths again put on a creditable display for no reward especially as they played without a goalkeeper.  Skipper Peter Leaton was again proud of his very young side that will emerge much stronger next season.

East Veterans League Vets Vs Bishop's Stortford Vets  Drew 1 – 1  Tom Megginson

In this re-arranged league match, City were always up against it against a Bishop's stortford side packed with star names from the past, most of whom could still run.  However, even without skipper Martin Collcott who was resting his suspect back in the role as umpire, City produced a typically resolute performance to secure a draw. This was based on the usual tremendous performance from John Dakin at sweeper and some great saves from Dave Hiles.  City occasionally posed a threat through Ian Kennedy up front and he set up Tom Megginson for a tidy finish late in the first half. Nearly constant pressure form Stortford finally told in the second half when they won a penalty stroke which Dave Hiles touched but could not prevent entering the goal. In the end this was a point won rather than 2 lost .

Saturday 23rd February

Slazenger National League Div2N 1st XI Vs Kingston upon Hull (H)   Won 3 – 2   Tom Batey & Sean Gilmour (2)

City secured an important win which, after 5 successive narrow losses, finally dispelled any lingering concerns of a fall into relegation or play off danger. At the same time despite their spirited display, Hull now seem doomed to the play offs.  City always appeared to be in control and steadily built a 3 – 0 lead with “back from skiing” Sean Gilmour adding much needed scoring ability. In the end City were happy to hold on for a narrow and very welcome success as Hull came back hard in the closing minutes, finding two goals and desperately pushing for a third.

NE14Hockey Men's East League

Prem B - 2nd XI Vs Bury St Edmunds 1st XI (A)    Drew 1 – 1   Neil Lake (pf)

Once again due to first team call ups City seconds lacked the ability up front to convert several promising situations into goals and in the end had to be content with a point. On balance of play in a game with very few short corners this might have seemed a fair result but City always created the better chances. Both keepers were called upon to make good saves but it was not until well into the second half that a Tom Hagues' run was unceremoniously stopped and City took the lead through a penalty, expertly converted by skipper Neil Lake . However, Bury quickly replied when a well struck pass was deftly diverted home. City had the better of the later exchanges but could not find the winner. City now lead the division by 3 points from Wisbech 1st XI who scraped home 5 - 4 over Colchester, with 5 games to go.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Sudbury 1st XI (H)  Won 6 – 1 Shayne Andrews (3) Matt Sutterby (2) & Josh Young

City continued their relentless pursuit of Ipswich 3rd XI and the second promotion spot, with a comprehensive win over 4 th placed Sudbury . With the inclusion of some recent “golden oldies” to bolster their depleted ranks City proved far too strong for a side that had otherwise had a good season. It was good to report that Shayne Andrews was back on the goal standard after 3 blank weeks, an unusually long dry spell for him.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Cambridge South 1st XI (A) Won 2 – 1 Wayne Humphreys & Jack Cartwright

Apart from the first 10 minutes City dominated possession but made hard work of finishing off a Cambridge South team 2 places above them in the league. City had 3 “goals” ruled out during the course of the game. 1 – 1 at half time thanks to a Wayne Humphreys strike, City found the opposition goalkeeper in outstanding form.  However, with about 2 minutes to go he saved the first shot from young Jack Cartwright but was unable to prevent the winner being swept high into the net from the rebound. City are now an impressive fourth place in this very competitive league.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs St Ives 3 rd XI (A)  Won 5 – 1  Matt Bond (3), Harry Cuttforth & Simon Buckley

This was a vital and emphatic win for City over a team just below them in the table and should mean with a few more points they will occupy a safe position in the league.  Next week's local derby (10.00 hrs at Bretton Gate) will be a very important fixture in this respect. A fine hat-trick from Matt Bond, at last showing some of his obvious potential, was the highlight of the win. Skipper Tom Handley was acknowledged as the man of the match and must be pleased that his side is now showing an improvement since a sluggish new year following the mid-season break.

Div 5NW - 6th XI Vs St Neots 3rd XI (H)  Won 3 – 2   Aaron Nicholls(2) & Graham Finding

Against a very experienced St Neots side, City had the better of the first half but could not find a way through a rugged defence. Second half rotations slightly disrupted the flow of the play and allowed St Neots to take an unexpected 2 goal lead.   However, this is a resilient, determined and well organised City side, who quickly made the necessary changes to fight back magnificently and scored 3 goals in the last 15 minutes to seal a deserved victory. Despite the scoreline this was probably one of Citys best performances of the season. With Bourne 3rd XI losing, this consolidates City's position in the second promotion place.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Horncastle 2nd XI (A)  Lost 2 – 3 Ian Kennedy (2)

City came away very disappointed to have lost a game they led 1 – 0 at half time as the match slipped away from them with the introduction of Horncastle's extremely strong second half substitutes. City started the better of the two sides and provided the most attacking opportunities in the first 15 - 20 minutes. City were eventually rewarded when Ian Kennedy squeezed one past the Horncastle keeper after 20 minutes. Both sides then produced some good opportunities, although neither side scored anymore first half goals.
Horncastle came out aggressively in the 2nd half and were quickly 2-1 up after scoring 2 goals within five minutes. To City's credit, they kept working hard and eventually levelled proceedings with 11 minutes to go after Ian Kennedy tucked home a firmly struck Kevin Ledbrook short corner on the post.
City had opportunities after that to score again, but narrowly missed some fine chances. Horncastle finally scored the winner with five minutes to go. A disappointing result for City, who played well, but once again couldn't make the most of all the opportunities they created.

Div 7NW - 8th XI  Vs Ely City 4th XI (H)   Lost 1 – 4 Peter Hings

City were eventually beaten by a strong Ely side that scored 3 in the last 15 minutes after a penalty stroke had been missed by City which would have given them a 2 – 1 lead.  There were excellent displays from some of the youngsters with Matt Anderson prominent up front.

East Veterans League - Vets Vs Bishop's Stortford Vets (H) Cancelled – to be re-arranged 01/03/08?

Friendly (Sunday 24/02/08) City Invitation XI Vs RAF U23 XI   Won 5 – 2   Paul Hillsdon (2), Neil Lake , Sam Ure & Shane Vincent

City's scratch side were given a severe examination by the RAF U23 side who led both 1 – 0 and 2 – 1 until City's more experienced players took charge.  This resulted in a spell of 4 goals in the last 10 minutes to turn the game round.

Sunday 17th February

Slazenger National League Div2N 1st XI Vs Telford & Wrekin (A) Lost 1 – 3   Scott Beach

With their resources at full stretch City were further handicapped by injuries in the game to youngsters Alex Boxall and Neil Evans that led them having to play the last 15 minutes with effevtively only 10 men. City controlled large parts of the game and at 1 – 1 hit the post from a short corner. They then conceded a soft short corner goal and as they chased an equaliser, were punished further with Telford 's third goal giving an unfair scoreline. There were fine performances at the back again from the evergreens Mark Featherstone and Adam Drake that epitomised City's display. However, after 4 successive narrow defeats City need a morale boosting victory next week against lowly Kingston-upon-Hull to get their second half of the season going.

NE14Hockey East League 2nd XI Vs West Herts 1st XI (H) Won 1 – 0   Andrew Cave

In their second match of the weekend City struggled against a very young, skilful and fit West Herts side that had the better of a tight first half without really creating many chances. City, after being grateful to be level  0 – 0 at half time, improved in the second half and gained some control but the result could still have gone either way.  As the game became more stretched City shot wide narrowly twice in quick succession from Joe Lester and Paul Hillsdon but were rewarded with 5 minutes left when an alternative short corner move led to Tom Hagues returning the ball for Andrew Cave to shoot home.  There was still time for West Herts to shoot narrowly wide twice and City to miss a presentable opportunity before a welcome final whistle. Fine games from Joe Lester up front and “tackling for fun” Sanjay Dhanani were vital contributions to City's win.

City having shown how to win “ugly”, have now established a 5 point lead at the top of the division over Wisbech with 6 hard games to go. What is just as important, having beaten the next two teams (in third and fourth places) this weekend is the gap to them is a welcome 12 points.

Saturday 16th February

NE14Hockey East League

Prem B 2nd XI Vs Pelicans 1st XI (H)   Won 3 – 2 Shane Vincent, Joe Lester & Craig Petrie

City started well in a vital second Vs third encounter and played some good hockey to establish a 3 – 0 lead. However, they fell away badly as they struggled to keep their passing game together, giving the ball away too easily. Pelicans scored two goals and pressed hard for an equaliser but City just held on.  The good news was that in the same league Bourne beat Wisbech 3 - 2 and City had taken over at the top of the table by 2 points.

Div 2N  3rd XI Vs Cambridge City 3rd XI  (A)   Won 4 – 0 Mike Yeoman, Matt Sutterby, Jim Tansley & Sam Ure

This traditionally is a very tough fixture which started that way, however Peterborough created a number of chances which were not taken until they forced a short corner which was dispatched by Mike Yeoman for a deserved 1- 0 half time score line. After the break COP dominated the game and scored through a Sutterby short corner. Two flowing moves followed the first resulted in Jim Tansley flicking a shot into the goal, the second move starting with an aerial from sweeper Mark Britton to Andrews who crossed for Sam Ure to finish on his reverse. M.O.M Shayne Andrews. It is Sudbury at home next week who sit just below COP as City continue their push for promotion.

Div 3NW  4th XI Vs Ely City 1st XI (A)   Drew 2 – 2 Martin Hill (2)

City should have been pleased to have won a point away at high flying Ely 1st XI but after leading 2 – 0 at half time against the run of play, they felt disappointed not to have hung on to win.  Two excellently taken goals from Ely squared the match after a lot of pressure but good performances from Taff Brady in goal and Simon Roberts in defence ensured that a valuable point was won.

Div 4NW 5th XI Vs Ely City 2 nd XI (H)  Drew 0 - 0

In a lack lustre game of few chances the two goalkeepers were largely spectators. Against a team several places above them, City could feel disappointed that they did not force a win having had more of the play.

Div  5NW 6th XI Vs St Ives 4 th XI (H)  Won 2 – 1  Graham Mitchell & Marcus Howard

This was another narrow but vital win for City as they continue to chase the second promotion spot with their third consecutive 2 – 1 win.  Matt Pentecost in goal was again given the man of the match accolade although only being called upon when St Ives trailed, as for the majority of the game they seemed to be happy to play for a draw. City continue to surprise themselves and although they face some very tough games in the next few weeks, they have showed a resolve and a level of teamwork that may yet see them through to a second sucessive promotion.

Div 6NW 7th XI Vs Ely City 3rd XI (H)  Won 4 – 0 Peter Hings, Adam Wilson, Jon Bigham & Alistair Bradley

City were in control throughout the game playing some excellent, fluent passing hockey. The fine group of youngsters contributed all over the pitch and if it wasn't for some missed chances in the second half, the score could have well been a lot more. It was a very important three points that lifts City closer towards safety; although it is essential they gain points next week at Horncastle and continue this momentum throughout the rest of the season, now having won three out of their last four games .

Div 7NW  8th XI Vs Cambridge South 4thXI (A) Lost 0 – 5

Against what was essentially a full men's team, City's youngsters battled well but had to admit defeat in the end. Michael Green on his re-appearance in goal managed to keep the score respectable with some fine saves.

East Veterans League Vets Vs Bedford Town Vets (A) Won 3 – 1 Ian Kennedy (2) & Martin Collcott

City Vets took a long time to come to terms with a recently laid and bouncy pitch at Bedford and after taking a lead through that man, Ian Kennedy, were soon pegged back by a good goal from a flowing Bedford move. Right on half time City took a perhaps undeserved lead through a Martin Collcott short corner strike that the full back just failed to prevent going over the line. In the second half City vets improved and added a further goal through Kennedy and held on to the advantage with increasing control.

Sunday 10th February

Slazenger National League Div2N 1st XI Vs Doncaster (H)  Lost 1 – 2  Scott Gilmour

Against high flying Doncaster, City put up a decent performance but once again lost out by the odd goal.  Despite being weakened by 3 long term injuries and another player away skiing, City produced an excellent first half performance to be 1 – 0 up at half time from a smart near post strike by Scott Gilmour past a keeper who committed himself to the cross.  Slowly but surely Doncaster increased the pressure and City were indebted to their “most improved player” Andy Grimwood for 3 brilliant saves to keep their lead. The experienced heads at the back with Mark Featherstone outstanding kept Doncaster at bay for long periods although the younger players further forward were guilty of giving up and giving away possession too easily.   Doncaster eventually converted a short corner and 3 minutes later followed another well worked corner finished with a tap in at at the far post.  Another close game but….

Saturday 9th February

NE14 Hockey East League Prem B - 2nd XI Vs Redbridge & Ilford 1st XI (A)  Won 3 – 1  Scott Beach, Shane Vincent & Brendan Sullivan

In difficult conditions caused by a low sun from one end of the pitch and an unseasonal temperature in the London suburbs of 18 deg C, City carved a solid victory against a side with a plan. This was to play half court when City had possession at the back and hope they made some mistakes. This occurred on one or two occasions but Redbridge and Ilford never really could take advantage.

An early short corner goal from drag flick specialist Scott Beach settled City but R & I soon equalised with a scrappy goal and some eccentric and fussy umpiring added to the disruption of the flow of the game.  A fine deflection from Shane Vincent following a free hit gave City the half time lead which was further increased by a deadly strike from one yard by Brendan Sullivan to gain a 3 – 1 advantage that City protected very professionally despite the issuing of 2 yellow cards – one deserved, one perhaps not. This win maintains City's solid second place with a game in hand on leaders Wisbech. Next weekend will be the crunch with home games on Saturday 16th Vs third placed Pelicans 1st XI (14.30 hrs) and on Sunday 17th (14.30 hrs) Vs fourth placed West Herts 1st XI.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Ipswich 3rd XI (H)  Won 2 -1  Mark Britton, Matt Sutterby

This was an important win against 2nd in the table Ipswich 3s. City created a number of chances which they could not convert in the first half and somehow went in at half time 1- 0 down to a goal right on half time. In the second half City pushed hard and had two penalty stroke appeals for poor tackles in the “D” turned down. Eventually City were rewarded with a goal from Mark Britton who reverse flicked the ball into the net. City continued to push but with 10 minutes remaining lost their captain who was sin binned when disputing what looked a fine goal being disallowed. (This is reported to be the first time forty something year old Mike Yeoman has received a yellow card since playing for Cambs U16 Vs Essex in 1976!)  This seemed to inspire the team and they duly produced the winning goal through a short corner from Matt Sutterby. Man of the match was Nick Puccaco. This result closes the gap to 3 points behind Ipswich .     

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Long Sutton 2nd XI (H)  Won 2 – 0  Simon Buckley & Peter Loader

In what was described a poor game, City were always the stronger team. In the end they prevailed through a goal from Simon Buckley from a pass by Club Chairman “I'll play anywhere at my age”, Peter Loader who went on to score one himself to seal the win. This result leaves City in a comfortable top half position in the table.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Spalding 2ndXI (A)  Lost 0 - 2

Against a solid Spalding side, City came away disappointed to have lost a game in which they had an equal share of the play. At 0 -1 down they were denied an equaliser when Ian Kennedy was awarded a short corner just as he was shooting home.  As they pressed forward City were punished by a Spalding counter attack.  Joe Paul had a fine game to win the man of the match accolade.

Div 5NW - 6th XI Vs Market Deeping 3rd XI (A) Won 2 – 1  Kyle Doyle & Graham Finding

City continued their march towards a possible promotion with a narrow win in a fiercely contested local derby. City always seemed to hold the edge but after holding a 2 – 0 lead at half time were fully stretched by Deeping in the second half.  The man of the match was difficult to decide with a lack of outstanding performances but it was stated clearly that it was not G! Youngsters Kyle Doyle and Aaran Mowbray both made solid debuts on their step up from the 7's and Stephen Cooper had an impressive game at right wing.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Wisbech 4th XI (A)  Lost 1 – 3  Jon Bigham

City started the game the better in the first half, providing some excellent opportunities that were unfortunately not taken by the forwards. The Wisbech side contained some very useful youngsters who were quick and skilful up front and posed some threat to the solid, (but slowish!) defence of City on the break. John Bigham (after umpiring at St Neots earlier) came on after 15 minutes and with his first touch finished a well worked goal that started with Kevin Ledbrook deep in defence. City held this lead to half time but knew it was essential they scored more goals in the second half. Even though, again chances were created and many short corners were taken, City could not do this, although on the other hand Wisbech did and scored three second half goals to close out the game. TJ West was excellent in goal and Rob Houghton had a very good game in the midfield.

Div 7NW - 8th XI  Vs Spalding 4th XI (A) Won 4 – 1 Matt Anderson (2), Cameron Heald & Henry Ricketts

A first competitive league win this season for the 8th XI was the result of a fine team selection of young and old as they were boosted by the inclusion of 3 Veterans after their game was cancelled.  The youngsters performed admirably with Matt Anderson confirming his outstanding promise with 2 goals. In addition Jordon Heald and Scott Howard were voted joint men of the match.

East Veterans League

CoP Vets Vs Bury St Edmunds Vets (H)  -  postponed due to Bury's involvement in the HA Vintage (over 50s) Cup. To be re-arranged.

Sunday 3rd February

Slazenger National League Div2N

1st XI Vs Leek (A)   Lost  3 – 4 Brendan Sullivan, Tom Batey & Simon Shorter

This was a much better hockey match than the Saturday against Formby, but for the 2nd day running City suffered the heartache of losing in the final minute, failing to close out a match that they led with only three minutes left on the clock.

The reverse tie at Bretton Gate had been a bruising encounter, but this match was a vast improvement, with both sides having their spells, and the lead changing as fortunes ebbed and flowed. Leek had the better of the opening encounters and had what looked a good if unplanned shot bizarely disallowed. City gradually established a foothold in the game, and took the lead through Brendan Sullivan in the 26th minute.Formby replied through a fine strike from new recruit, England International Scott Cordon, and it was all square at half time. For much of the second half City were the better side, and deservedly led following strikes from Tom Batey and Simon Shorter, unfortunately they failed to close out the win, and as Leek threw everything forward, driven on by the influential Cordon, a 67th minute equaliser and 70th minute winner were conceded.

City can feel proud of how they competed in this game, it was tired legs in the final 10 minutes that cost them, Leek having a larger squad and no Saturday fixture, but City need to become more professional in holding on to hard fought leads.

HA U18 Cup Vs Harleston Magpies (A) Lost 1 – 3   Joe Bradley

City's youngsters faced their 3 rd trip to Norfolk in this competition after beating Norwich City and Dereham in previous rounds. With City unable to draw on their internationals Boxall and Collins, both on duty with the first team, this was a very creditable performance.  COPS conceded a goal while still settling in on the water based pitch. They then won their first short corner on 20 minutes which Joe Bradley converted after dribbling past two players and flicking the ball high into the net 1-1. With 3 minutes of the first half remaining COPS conceded a 2nd goal when they were probably in control of the game and should have dealt with the situation more professionally. COPS were always chasing the game from then on against a very well drilled side and despite numerous tactical changes could not score an equaliser. With about 12 minutes remaining another error in the “D” by COPS sealed the game for Harleston. M.O.M. Aaron Dawson and Chris Porter.

Squad – Jake Ledbrook, Tom Clarkson, Darren McIntosh, Neil Evans, Joe Bradley, Aaron Dawson, Tom Hagues, James Grant, Joshua Young, Chris Green, Nick Puccaco, Chris Porter, Ryan Evans.  

Saturday 2nd February

Slazenger National League Div2N

1st XI Vs Formby (A)   Lost   3 – 4  Scott Gilmour, Sean Gilmour & Scott Beach

This was an extremely disappointing performance in the only game that escaped the weather in this division. COPS raced into an early lead with goals in the 13th and 16th minutes from Sean and Scott Gilmour. Formby hit a reply, but in the 39th minute new recruit Scott Beach restored the two goal cushion with a drag flicked short corner. Despite their advantage City felt that they were playing poorly in a poor game, but should have held on to close out the result. However, too many individual decissions made in error allowed Formby back in, plus the excellent finishing of their prolific marksman David Seddon. City had to endure the dissapointment of conceeding an extremely harsh last minute penalty flick, and thereby snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.

NE14hockey East League

Premier B - 2nd XI Vs Wisbech 1st XI (H) Drew  0 - 0

In this top of the table clash, City were held to a draw by a much more motivated Wisbech side.  The two sides generally cancelled each other out although both were under strength, Wisbech due to suspensions and City due to first team call ups. Wisbech were the better side with more of the play in the first half but City had two good chances with the Wisbech keeper making good saves both times. It looked as if one goal would settle it and the introduction of Paul Hillsdon at half time improved matters for CoP but they could not force a goal. In breakaways Wisbech always looked dangerous and Jonathan Short in goal made two vital saves.  The umpires were obviously concerned about the potential for a flare up in such a fiercely contested local derby and the early production of a yellow card for the first really bad tackle kept the game under control despite the having to issue 3 more (2 – 2 overall) as the standard had been set. With a game in hand (Vs West Herts (H) on Sunday Feb 17 th ) this was a better result for City as they remain only a point behind Wisbech and 6 points clear of Pelicans (King's Lynn) in third place.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Bedford 2nd XI (A)   Won  1 – 0   Shane Vincent

A difficult encounter was made more so with the loss of six squad members and Bedford admitting to fielding their strongest side this season including a couple of first teamers. COP struggled to contain Bedford making odd attacks which fizzled out through poor approach play. The loss of Shayne Andrews to the 2nds was telling with the resultantlack of penetration up front. Half time 0 - 0 and a blast from skipper Yeoman seemed to do the trick for a while with more work being undertaken by the forwards. A tactical change with 10 minutes remaining eventually paid off with Yeoman setting up Shayne Vincent to finish at the second attempt with 3 minutes left on the clock. The visit next week of second place Ipswich will be a crunch encounter so it was important to get this win. Man of the Match - Joshua Young.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs March Town 2nd XI (A)   Won  6 – 0  Wayne Humphreys (4), Chris Samuels & Harry Cutforth

This was a comfortable win for City 4th XI and Wayne Humphreys again showed there is no substitute for experience when getting in the “right place” four times to score. There was also a goal on his debut for Harry Cutforth and another for skipper Chris “Wiggy” Samuel to celebrate in an emphatic win.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Wisbech 3rd XI (H)  Lost 2 – 4 Ian Kennedy & Simon Buckley

Although under strength this was a poor result for City against a team below them in the league.  Goals form Ian Kennedy and welcome recent recruit Simon Buckley were well taken but City were always chasing the game and punished by a Wisbech team swift on the counter attack. Had two other well struck shots by Buckley from the top of the D not been adjudged to have been hit from outside, it could have been a different story.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs Alford 2nd XI (H)  Won 2 – 1 Dave Reeson & Chris Porter

City consolidated their second place in this division with a solid performance against a workmanlike Alford side. A rare goal from Dave Reeson and another from the promising Chris Porter on his 6th team debut was in the end enough. Alford always carried a threat through their talented centre forward who scored once but was generally well marshalled by man of the match Jamie Cooper.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Long Sutton 3rd XI (H)  Won 2 – 1 Kyle Doyle (2)

In the first half, the City youngsters dominated and put on the best display of the season so far. Kyle Doyle had fifteen minutes of brilliance, which resulted in 2 goals and was well supported by the midfield. City went in comfortably at half time with a 2 - 0 lead, but knew Long Sutton would come out strong in the 2nd half. That they did, and probably had more of the game in the 2nd half, although didn't score until the last minute. Again, all the youngsters pulled together and played great team hockey that resulted in City's consecutive wins for the first time this season. Two first gamers in the 7ths - Eddie Fitch and Dhillan Mistry both fitted in very well and had excellent games on debut!

Div 7NW   -  8 th XI  -  No game

East Veterans League Vs Cambridge City Vets (A) Lost 0 - 2

At minimum strength, City Vets had one of those days where they conceded an early goal had enough of the play to have at least been level at half time and then allowed Cambridge City to score again early in the second half.  City then dominated the rest of the match missing numerous chances including a penalty stroke from Richard Herbage.  On another day City would have expected with the chances they had to have scored 4 or 5 goals.  

Saturday 26th January

NE14Hockey East League

Prem B - 2nd XI Vs  Norwich City 1st  XI (A)    Won 7 – 1 Scott Beach (3), Brendan Sullivan (2) Joe Lester & Joe Bradley

City did not play well in the first half but were still in front 2 - 1 at half time thanks to two short corner conversions from drag flick specialist Scott Beach, who should be parading his talent for the first eleven next weekend.  After sorting a few things out at half time two quick goals settled the match, and City went on to win tidily, with the proper use of their 14 man squad proving very effective against 12 man Norwich City. With League leaders Wisbech losing unexpectedly at home to Bury St Edmunds, City 2nds are only one point behind with a game in hand. This sets up the match against Wisbech next Saturday 02/02/08 (14.30 hrs at Bretton Gate). City are in good form and without their two banned star players Wisbech can be assured of a difficult afternoon.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs March Town 1st XI (H)  Won 9 – 0  Shayne Andrews (5), Shane Vincent (3) & Nick Puccaco

City dominated and put to the sword a 10 man Norwich City side.  Shayne Andrews was again in devastating form with ex-first team skipper Mark Britton enjoying an occasional appearance at sweeper. Now comfortably in 3rd place City will find it difficult to catch St Ives and Ipswich 3rds.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Wisbech 2nd XI (H) Won 5 – 0 Chris Green (2), Martin Hill, Simon Roberts & Wayne Humphreys

City gave a solid performance and were always in control.  A good display from Taff Brady in goal was allied to some good finishing, the highlight being what was reputed to be Simon Roberts' (Baz) first goal for 20 years from a short corner.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs St Neots 2nd XI (A)  Lost 0 – 2  

Against top of the table St Neots, City fought hard but in the end were just shaded by a better side.  Matt Connolly was given the man of the match award for an outstanding performance at right back.

Div 5NW - 6th XI Vs Boston 2nd XI (A) Lost 1 – 3 James Fisher

This result was a shock for promotion chasing City as struggling Boston gained a deserved win on the balance of play. City failed to get into their stride in the first period and by half time were 2 goals down, one due to an unaccustomed defensive lapse. In the 2nd half City got there act together, and after sustained pressure clawed back a good goal from James Fisher. As City chased the game at the end they conceded a 3rd with the final hit of the game, to give Boston a slightly flattering winning margin, however it must be conceded that Matt Pentecost in goal was previously responsible for several good saves.

Div 6NW - 7th XI  Vs St Neots 4th XI (A)   Won 7 – 2   Richard Herbage (4), Peter Hings (2) & Stephen Cooper

This was a game dominated throughout by City. After taking an early lead from a well taken Peter Hings short corner, St Neots quickly replied. City got back in front and from then on in didn't look like losing. Richard Herbage (seconded from the Vets) was an excellent addition up front, linking well with the youngsters and showing them how it is done with some superb finishing. It was a strong team performance, with everyone contributing to a very welcome win.

Div 7NW - 8th XI Vs St Neots 5th XI (H)  Drew 2 – 2 Martin Collcott & Stuart Manning

This was City's 8th XI's first genuine point of the season which was very pleasing for skipper Peter Leaton and his youngsters as they were playing against a team that rose to 2nd in the table after this point.  The addition of Martin Collcott (Vets game cancelled) was a great help and after falling behind to an early goal City fought back well. T J West made some good saves to preserve the point although City missed a golden chance just before the end to snatch victory.

East Veterans League

CoP Vets Vs Colchester Vets (H)   Conceded 3 – 0 Colchester could not raise a team.

Sunday 20th January

Triangular Tournament V Sikh Union and Cambridge University

V Sikh Union ( Nottingham ) Won 7-1   Tom Batey (3), Brendan Sullivan (2), Greg Hopkinson and Kalbir Takhar

V Cambridge University Drew 3-3  Scott Beach (pf), Simon Shorter and Greg Hopkinson

In an extremely worthwhile exercise, City acquitted themselves very well in two hard matches. 5 players short of their full strength squad, there were opportunities to blood some fringe players and Tom Hagues showed great promise although asked to play out of position.  Against a similarly below strength Sikh Union, City started strongly and some fast flowing hockey resulted in Tom Batey being on the end of most things to notch a first half hat trick in a 5 – 1 half time score line. With Scott Gilmour prominent, City continued to have the better of things although keeper Andy Grimwood produced some excellent saves as Sikh Union improved in the second half and City rang the changes.

The second match against a full strength, young fit and well drilled Cambridge University side was a different matter. City were on the back foot for most of the first half as they struggled to gain any sustained possession and found themselves 1 – 2 down by half time despite a debut goal from a penalty stroke converted by Scott Beach (ex Doncaster).  However 2 quick goals in 2 minutes from Greg Hopkinson and a tremendous finish from Simon Shorter after a great run and cross from Scott Gilmour put City ahead.  However a loss of possession in a vital area was clinically punished by the University forwards to produce a fair result on the balance of play.

City face a tougher second half to their National League season but the new recruits and the return of Greg Hopkinson would seem to stand them in good stead to at least maintain their top half position.

Saturday 19th January

NE14 Hockey EAST League

Prem B - 2nd XI Vs St Neots 1st XI (H)    Won 7 – 3  Scott Beach (3) Tom Hagues, Tom Batey, Craig Petrie and Joe Bradley.

With League leaders Wisbech only drawing at King's Lynn Pelicans, this consolidated City 2nd XI's position in second place. Scott Beach's debut for the club was marked by a hat trick of drag flick conversions from short corners that could perhaps also prove invaluable for City's 1st XI.  2 – 0 up at half time City were always in control against a determined St Neots side although the performance was marred by the concession of two goals due to poor defending that brought the score back to 5 – 3 at one stage before City finished strongly.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs St Ives 1st  XI (A)  Lost 0 – 5

This first versus third clash was emphatically settled in favour of St Ives the league leaders.  Going 2 – 0 down early on City never really recovered and were punished expertly by St Ives when they continued to chase the game and over committed players forward towards the end.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Cambs Nomads 3rd   XI (A)  Won 3 – 0 Stuart Bond, Gaz Mohammed and Wayne Humphreys

City were always in control in this game with Martin Hill earning a man of the match tag for a fine typically energetic display in midfield. Stuart Bond continued his recent goal scoring streak, Gaz Mohammed also notched with Wayne Humphreys also “doing what he is good at”.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs St Ives 2nd XI (H)  Lost 0 - 1

In a strangely lack lustre game with few opportunities for either side, City were edged out by an efficient and hard working St Ives team.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs Cambs Nomads 4th XI (H)  Won 8 – 0  Tom Wadsworth (2), Tom Clarkson (2), Marcus Howard (2), Keith Huggins and Graham Mitchell

City overwhelmed bottom of the table Nomads with some good performances from their young front runners, the pick of the goals probably being the final seconds finish from Marcus Howard. Tom Clarkson capped a man of the match performance with a brace. City now reclaim a possible promotion spot in second place in the league

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Rutland 2nd XI (H)  Lost 1 – 6  Kevin Ledbrooke

Rutland strengthened by 5 RAF Cottesmore players proved too strong for City's young side although on play and chances the score could have been a lot closer.

Div 7NW - 8th XI Vs Rutland 3rd XI (A) .Lost 1 – 4  Simon Round

Despite the scoreline against an older young side City spurned many good chances to score and were eventually punished for their mistakes at the back to record a disappointing loss.

East Veterans League Vs Ipswich Vets (A)  Lost 0 -3

City, with a few of their more gifted and younger regular players missing were expecting a “going over” from clear league leaders Ipswich and got just that. They were however not unsatisfied in keeping the scoreline respectable against a much younger and more talented side, thanks to two or three goal line clearances capping great displays form Dave Hiles in goal and John Dakin at sweeper.

Saturday 12th January

East Veterans League – Vets XI Vs Pelicans Vets (H) Won 3 – 2 Tom Megginson, Adam Drake & Ian Kennedy

City Vets pulled off the comeback of the day to win from 0 - 2 down at half time. Third in the table Pelicans started well and carried the game to City who were indebted to Mike Yeoman at sweeper in his second game of the day for holding things together.  A notable feature of the game was the first appearance together in a competitive game of father and son Ted and Adam Drake.   This had a significant effect on the match with the latter's silky dribbling skills setting up an early goal in the second half from Tom Megginson.

The introduction of Aggi Milner in the second period also steadied the ship and City slowly took control with Adam Drake slotting in the equaliser and Ian Kennedy turning in a short corner shot.  City finished the stronger team with Kennedy unfortunate to have a further goal ruled out by an early whistle for a short corner. However, it still took a fine intervention from Dave Hiles in the last two minutes to ensure the win. In a fiercely fought encounter this was a fine result for City Vets.

Friendly - 2nd XI Vs Havering 1st XI (H) Lost 0 – 2

Against a team comfortably in mid table in the league above (Premier A), City 2nds, without 3 regulars, acquitted themselves very well and should have at least obtained a draw. City were slightly the better team for long periods but were unable to force home their advantage with 2 goal line clearances by the Havering full backs proving vital.

In the last ten minutes Havering scored from a narrow angle after a fine initial save from Jon Short and as City chased the equaliser they were punished again from a swift breakaway.  If City can reproduce their first half of the season form they are in a strong position to gain promotion to Premier A and this performance shows that they could compete successfully at that level.

Friendly - 3rd XI Vs Letchworth 1st XI (H) Won 3 – 1 Josh Young, Sam Ure and Shayne Andrews.

City earned a fine win against a very good Letchworth 1st team who are 2nd in the parallel league Div2 South. This was a good result for a make shift team with five regulars unavailable, against a side which had scored 71 goals in 11 league matches.

City started well and scored first through good work by Shayne Andrews releasing Joshua Young to beat his marker and round the goal keeper followed by a neat reverse flick of the ball into the goal. Letchworth then scored through a well worked short with several chances at both end, including a brilliant stick save  from Darren Griffiths for City, the sides turned around one a piece at half time.

City stepped up the pace of the game as the opposition started to feel the affects of Xmas and scored two further goals through Andrews a reverse hit and Sam Ure alert at the far post from a short corner. It will be a tough test next week when City play top of the table St. Ives 1 st  XI in an away fixture. Man of the Match was Josh Young.

Friendly - 4th XI Vs Winchmore Hill 1st XI (A) Lost 2 – 3 Tom Wadsworth & Stuart Bond

Although City dominated much of the play, they contrived to lose this match to a penalty stroke in the last few minutes. It was generally poor finishing and some naïve defending that let the side down.

Friendly - 5th XI Vs Letchworth 3rd XI (A)  Drew 3 -3  

1 – 3 down at half time City turned the game round and might have won in the end. However they were indebted to a fine display in goal from “returning to the fold” Taff Brady for keeping them in the game early on.

Friendly – 6th XI Vs Winchmore Hill 2nd XI (A)  Won 4 – 3 Arran Nicholls (3) & Tom Clarkson

In an extremely useful work out for the league games starting next week, City were always in the lead and deserved their victory although the concession of 3 goals gave some cause for concern. The youthfull combination of Aaran Nicholls and Tom Wadsworth continue to create numerous goal scoring chances which are starting to be clinically finished.

Saturday 15th December

NE14 Hockey East League DIV3NW City of Peterborough 4th XI  Vs Bourne 2nd XI (A)   Won 9 – 0 Wayne Humphreys (3), Stuart Bond (3), Martin Hill, Joe Bradley and Chris Samuel.

An understrength Bourne side were eventually overwhelmed by a City side that played some great passing hockey.  The first phase was extremely tight until Bond scored his first and City settled to put together some fine moves but found the Bourne keeper in fine form.  The game was changed on half time when a series of short corners led to a nasty cut being incurred by Bourne's best defender, Drew Bradshaw after a shot deflected by his own keeper and he took no further part reducing Bourne to 10 players.  From 3 – 0 at this point, City exploited this advantage using their squad of 13 well and finished strongly with Humphreys and Stuart Bond, with his first ever hat-trick at senior level, showing great finishing skills.

Saturday 8th December

NE14Hockey East League

Premier B - 2nd XI Vs West Herts 1st XI (H)    Postponed - to be rearranged – West Herts qualified for the indoor championships.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Spalding 1st XI (A)  Won 8 -1 Shayne Andrews (5), James Grant (2) and Josh Young

This was a fine performance again from City 3rd XI.  This emphasises how these traditional friends and enemies have developed as clubs in the last few years. The win keeps City in a strong 3rd place in their division challenging St Ives and Ipswich 3rd XI for the promotion places.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Rutland 1st XI (A)  Lost 2 – 4 Gaz Mohammed & Wayne Humphreys

Not for the first time this season, City felt they should have got something out of a fixture where they had an even share of the game but gave away a poor goal or two.  Against a well organised Rutland side City fell behind early, equalised and then conceded two quick goals. A penalty stroke from Humphreys gave them hope but Rutland scored another at the death as City chased another equaliser.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Market Deeping 2 nd XI (H)  Won 2 – 1 Ryan Evans & Rob Fisher

This was a fine win for City in a fiercely contested local derby.  Rob Fisher was once again the hero, scoring a dramatic winner in the last minute to give City a comfortable mid-table position half way through the season.

Div 5NW - 6th XI Vs Horncastle 1 st XI (H)  Lost 1 – 2 Tom Wadsworth

In a really good quality top of the table clash, City just lost out to a classy Horncastle side that is expected to win this division with a little to spare.  City went behind to a well taken reverse stick strike, probably the best goal they have conceded this season.

2 - 0 down by half time, City showed their metal by edging the second half, including a Tom Wadsworth goal to set up a tight finish. Unfortunately City were unable to find the equaliser, but have finished the first half of the season in a pleasing top three position following lasr seasons promotion.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Spalding 3rd XI (H)  Lost 1 – 2 Kyle Doyle

City gave top of the table Spalding 3rd XI a severe examination but still managed to lose a game where a draw would have been a fair result. 1 – 1 at half time reflected the game but City were caught cold immediately on the restart when a Spalding defender was allowed to run 50 yards to set up a composed finish. City had several chances after this as they pressed but must blame their own poor finishing for not getting some kind of result.

Div 7NW   -  8 th XI  Vs March Town 5 th XI (A) .Lost 1 – 8  Jordon Heald

This was the same old story for City against an older more experienced March side.  Bolstered by the inclusion of some parents, City battled hard but were always out-gunned by a strong March side whose youngsters were generally 2 to 3 years older.  City had the consolation of scoring the best goal of the game, a fine reverse stick shot over the keeper from Jordon Heald following a short corner.

East Veterans League CoP Vets Vs Shefford & Sandy (A) Lost 0 – 1

City again put on a fighting display in their fourth successive away game but were just edged out by a determined Shefford & Sandy side that have now gone top of the table (as Ipswich beat Harleston and Pelicans lost).  S & S had the better of the first half and took the lead midway through with a slick short corner move. City improved in the second half and controlled a lot of the play but despite several short corners just could not score.  Half term report Played 11 (4 home 7 away)  won 4 lost 7 – better second half of season expected.

Sunday 2nd and Saturday 1st December

1st Team East Indoor Championships

This was a fantastic result for the first team squad under the leadership of Simon Miles who used every opportunity he could draw on to bond a diverse selection of players into a winning unit. After being hampered by late injuries and unavailabilities the side scraped through with a last gasp winner against Witham to win their opening game 8 - 7.

As the team adjusted to each other and the indoor game they markedly improved securing 12 – 0 wins against Stevenage, 6 – 3 Vs Harpenden and 5 – 2 Vs St Ives.    

After a long break they faced Outdoor National League Div1 side Chelmsford in the Final, Chelmsford having been convincing winners of their pool. City were behind for most of the game before securing another last gasp victory to secure a 4 -3 Victory, and a place in the Indoor National League. Congratulations to manager Simon Miles, and the entire squad for a superb effort.

Saturday 1st December

NE14Hockey East League

PremB - 2nd XI Vs  Colchester 1st  XI (A)   Lost 0 – 1

Weakened by withdrawals and injuries to Andrew Cave (broken wrist) and Sanjay Dhanani (ligaments) during the game, City still had enough of the play to at least achieve a draw. Wisbech won again and now are 3 points ahead but City are still in second place still 9 points ahead of Pelicans in third place.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs March Town 1st XI (H)  Won 8 - 0 Sam Ure (2) Shayne Andrews (2), Chris Green, Aggi Milner, Bob Slack, Jon Sortwell

City were very impressive against a poor March side. Mike Yeoman drove his team on to show no mercy to the team he trains during the week. Sponsored by Macintyre & Hudson COP 3rds put on an 8 goal show. 4 - 0 up at half time through Sam Ure (2), Shayne Andrews and Chris Green whose goal was the end product of 15 passes through the team. COPS kept up the pressure in the second half and duly scored through Aggi Milner, Andrews again, Bob Slack and Jonathan Sortwell who was scoring for the first time in 5 years. Man of the match Joe Bradley pulled the strings brilliantly in midfield.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Market Deeping 1st XI (H) Lost 1– 5 Stuart Bond

City acknowledged Deeping were the better side who maximised their goal scoring chances, but the game was much closer than the final score suggests, quality in the final third of the pitch being the difference between the two sides.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Cambridge City 5 th XI (A)   3 – 0

Cambridge City conceded as could not raise a side.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs March Town 3 rd XI (A) Won  3 – 1 Tom Wadsworth, Graham Finding, Rob Fisher

This was another hard fought win for City 6th XI who continue to lead the division as they press for a second successive promotion under the guidance of Graham Finding. It was March that started the game the stronger, showing more urgency and determination in the 50/50's, and deservedly taking the lead. A sluggish city side gradually hauled themselves into the match, equalising through a fine open play strike from Tom wadsworth, and gradually taking control of the game.City dominated much of the 2nd half, securing the win through short corner strikes from Graham Finding and Rob Fisher.

Div 6NW - 7th XI  Vs March Town 4th XI (A)  Won 3 – 2  Chris Porter, Seamus Fricker and Stephen Cooper

In what was a crucial game for both teams and their battle to avoid the drop zone, March probably started the better and had a couple of promising breaks on goal that were eventually closed down in the last line of defence. City worked their way back into it and started to move the ball with pace and precision. The inclusions of Kevin Ledbrook up front and Neil Collcott in defence helped provide a solid structure for the younger lads in the team who began running and passing the ball confidently. City's dominance prevailed with two well worked goals before half time.
Again it was quite even at the beginning of the second half, although March got the all important next goal which lifted their spirits and saw them equalise five minutes later.
City pushed hard for a winner and even though they went down to ten men as a result of a yellow card provided more opportunties to score. Finally, with two minutes to go, City won a short corner which saw the cool, calm and collected Neil Collcott stroll up from defence to take charge, and that he did. After collecting the ball and getting around one defender he dished it off to Stephen Cooper who fired away the winner.
A well fought and well deserved win by a team who has seen most of the close ones go the other way this year. Hopefully this will be the result that turns things around.

Div 7NW - 8th XI Vs Bourne 4th XI (H)  Lost 1 – 4  Ian Kennedy

City struggled to get into the game in the first half against a good quality and well organised Bourne team who had the right balance of youth and experience. However a couple of half time changes enabled City to gain a foot hold in the second half, which they edged with an opportunistic one on one goal from Ian Kennedy.

East Veterans League

CoP Vets Vs Norwich Exiles Vets (A)  Lost 0 – 3.

Sunday 25th November

Slazenger National League Div2N 1st XI Vs University of Birmingham (H)  Lost 2 – 3 Simon Shorter & Alex Boxall

City led 1 - 0 at half time and 2 – 1 mid way through the second half against a very well drilled University of Birmingham side, but were undone in the last 10 minutes by the league's top scorer who netted 2 tremendous drag flicks from short corners. This proves CoP can compete with the best in this division and can be very happy with their points return on the first half of the season.

HA U18 Cup 2nd Round  CoP Vs Dereham (A)  Won 5 – 3 Josh Young (2) Chris Green (2) James Grant

Citys U18 side progressed into the last 32 of the cup with a more comfortable win than the scoreline suggests. Playing the composed passing game expected by coach Mike Yeoman they raced to a 5-1 lead before conceeding a couple of goals once "improvisation" crept into the game plan. Nick Puccaco provided fine crosses for 3 of the goals, and the two strikes from Josh Young crowned his man of the match performance. With Citys two first team U18 internationals hopefully available to come into the squad for later rounds hopes remain high that this talented young side could go far.

Saturday 24th November

NE14Hockey East League PremB - 2nd XI Vs Bourne 1st XI (H)    Won 3 – 1 Joe Lester (2) & Andrew Cave

In the usual fiercely competitive local derby, City just had enough fire power to hold off a determined Bourne side and consolidate their position at the top of the division (level on points with Wisbech).  When Bourne drew level just after half time, the game was in the balance but a short corner goal from Andrew Cave and a typical poachers goal from Joe Lester settled it.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Felixstowe 1st XI (A) Drew 1-1  James Grant

City felt that, despite this looking like a good point won on their longest trip of the season, they should have won having two justifiable penalty stroke claims turned down.

Div 3NW  - 4th XI Vs Bourne 2nd XI (A)   Abandoned floodlight failure with Bourne leading 1 – 0  with 7 minutes to go – replayed?

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Alford 1st XI (H)  Won 4 – 3  Joe Paul, Tom Handley, Matt Bond & Jim Tansley

Bolstered by ex-first team player Jim Tansley's first appearance of the season, City produced an encouraging performance and just about deserved their win against a well organised Alford side who were top of the table.

Div  5NW  - 6th XI Vs Cambridge South 2nd XI (H)  Won 3 – 1 Paul Day, Keith Huggins & Marcus Howard

City continued their promotion push with a steady win against Cambridge South with rare goals from veterans Paul Day and Keith Huggins complementing a good finish from promising young Marcus Howard.

Div 6NW  - 7th XI Vs Wisbech 5th XI (H)  Lost 1 – 3 David Cooper

This was a disappointing loss for a City side who had hoped to for a morale boosting win but Wisbech proved too strong after Joe Houghton was forced to leave the pitch after receiving a blow on the head from the ball. He is reported to have recovered well.

Div 7NW - 8th XI Vs Newmarket 2nd XI (A) Lost 0 – 6

Skipper Peter Leaton was very disappointed with his side that seemed not to wish to perform “as it was too cold”.  They have always previously played well against the odds but let themselves down this time.

East Veterans League CoP Vets Vs Harleston Magpies (H) Lost 0 – 3

Travelling with a depleted squad, City Vets felt this scoreline could have been closer against a side that fielded a majority of players with National league experience in their younger days.  Dave Hiles in goal and last minute recruit (to ensure a full eleven) Graham Finding were City's best performers.  It might have been easy to cave in against a better and more skilful side but City stuck to the task well.

Sunday 18th November

Slazenger National League Div2N - 1st X! v Sheffield Hallam (A) won 4-2 Sean Gilmour (2) Scott Gilmour, Joe Finding

City completed their second away win of the weekend with an impressive display against the only team to have beaten City at Bretton Gate this season. Two goals from Sean Gilmour, one from his younger brother Scott and a penalty stroke from Joe Finding clinched a 4-2 win and moved City to within three points of top spot in the National North Division.

The older Gilmour opened the scoring with an excellent drag flick from a short corner and another set-piece enabled Gilmour the younger to make it 2-0 by half-time. Sheffield hit back after the break to make it 2-2, their "spell" coinciding with some hesitant Peterborough defending, and they may have got more from the game were it not for another fine goalkeeping display from Andy Grimwood.

With 15 minutes remaining a shot from Alex Boxall was stopped on the line by a foot and Finding cooly converted the penalty flick. Gilmour senior then completed the scoring from open play with a well struck shot from the top of the 'D'.

Saturday 17th November

Slazenger National League Div2N - 1st X1 v Sikh Union Nottingham (A) won 3 - 2 Alex Boxall, Joe Finding, Carl Daniels

This was a hard fought and at times fractious game, which City had to play the last 7 minutes of with only nine men, after two players were yellow carded. After conceding an early goal, City dominated the action and led 3-1 at half-time thanks to some outstanding play amongst the forwards.

Alex Boxall cancelled out a Sikh union opening goal by levelling from open play, Joe Finding struck from the penalty spot and Carl Daniels netted for the second successive match with a superb strike from the edge of the area. In truth City missed enough chances to repeat an 8-2 scoreline secured against the same opposition earlier this season, but they struggled once the game turned into a niggly affair.

Fortunately it was still 3-1 when they were reduced to nine men and they defended stoutly until Sikh pulled a goal back with the last hit of the game.

NE14Hockey East League Prem B - 2nd XI Vs Chelmsford 2nd XI (A)   Won 5 -1 Joe Kopka, Andrew Cave, Brendan Sullivan (2) & Stuart Dawson.

City Started slowly against a skillful and fast moving opposition forward line, but the City defence coped well.  Against the run of play, City took the lead through a Joe Kopka strike after excellent midfield and forward support play. The City defence continued to absorb numerous attacks with Sanjay Dhanani and Neil Evans excelling.  After such an attack, a quick hit from the back and early release from midfield was expertly dispatched by Brendan Sullivan.

Chelmsford started the second half stronger winning numerous penalty corners, but the City defence held strong including a couple of fine saves from Jon Short in goal.  City eased the pressure with goals from Sullivan, Andrew Cave and Stuart Dawson with Chelmsford replying once.  Yellow cards for Paul Hillsdon and Joe Kopka, both for bad tackles, ensured a few nervous moments towards the end of the game. All in all another fine win, City have now dropped down to 2nd position, on goal difference, after Wisbech scored an additional two goals in their win over St Neots.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Cambridge City 4th XI (H)  Won 4 – 0 Shayne Andrews (3) & Tim Pollard

This was another fine win for City bolstered by the inclusion of former first team captain Mark Britton and they had the game settled by half time through an Andrews hat-trick and Pollard's first goal for the club.  The second half was played with City still on top but unable to add to the total. Goalkeeper Darren Griffiths didn't have a single touch of the ball all game.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Cambridge University 3rd XI (H)   Drew 0 - 0

This was a hard fought, competetive and even game but with both sides cancelling each other out neither side was able to make a scoring breakthrough to secure the 3 points.. City missed two good chances early on but were then handicapped by an injury to Wayne Humphreys which thereafter limited their scoring options.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Boston 1st XI (A)  Lost 0 - 1

In a very physical game City lost out to a single goal rather sloppily conceded.  CoP felt aggrieved at certain umpiring decisions including a yellow card for Joe Paul.  There were some plusses in a otherwise solid performance but they will need to show more discipline if they are to climb the table

Div  5NW  -  6th XI Vs Bourne 3rd XI (A)  Drew 3 – 3  Graham Finding, Tom Wadsworth & Arran Nicholls

Bourne 3's were the best side City 6 th XI have played this season, full of good experienced adult players.  City were happy to walk away with a point which kept them just above Bourne in the table. At 2 - 0 down there seemed to be no way back into a game where City for once were failing to create any decent attacking moves, but they got one back from an up to that point rare short corner, converted by skipper Graham Finding, only to see Bourne immediately pull away to 3-1 straight from the restart.

However, City had their “spell” late in the game and hauled the game back to 3 - 3 with good sharp finishing from they ever reliable Tom Wadsworth and Arran Nicholls. A loss for Newmarket means City have managed to stay in 2 nd place.

Div 7NW  -  8 th XI Vs Boston 3 rd   XI (H)  Lost 1 - 4

As usual City's youngsters put up a fine display but were eventually overpowered by the league leaders.

East Veterans League CoP Vets Vs Chelmsford Vets (A)  Lost 2 – 6  Ian Kennedy and Mick Ward

City Vets travelled with only 10 players and came up with a master plan to only play 3 at the back.  This worked well for the first half which ended with a 1 – 0 lead through Ian Kennedy. For 10 more minutes City held out but Chelmsford with a youngish centre forward who could run, suddenly found the key and scored 3 very quick goals. City then replied through a deflected strike from Mick Ward (scoring for the 45 th consecutive season for the club), and thought they were still in with a chance.  However, this was soon proved to be a false dawn as Chelmsford exploited City's lack of numbers as the defence tired, and Chelmsford finished comfortable winners.

Sunday 11th November

Slazenger National League Div2N 1st XI Vs Telford & Wrekin (H) Won 3 - 1 Carl Daniels, Simon Shorter & Tom Batey

City produced a below par performance and still managed to win against a speedy and skilful Telford side. City missed a great chance through Alex Boxall within 2 minutes but were then generally outplayed as the visitors regularly got behind the home defence with rapid changes of position. City were not helped by the absence for a period of skipper, Mark Featherstone struck on the hand by a rising shot, and after Telford had hit the cross bar a fine flowing move gave them a deserved lead just before half time.

Early after the break, Andy Grimwood kept City in it the game with a series of saves from 5 successive short corners. City gradually worked their way back into the match using their full squad of 16 effectively and finished the stronger side.  The equaliser followed a disputed short corner which eventually led to Carl Daniels squeezing home a close range shot. Almost immediately Scott Gilmour's speed and trickery created a chance Simon Shorter could not miss and as Telford pressed forward Gilmour again produced a fine run to set up a good finish from Tom “Boris” Batey. 

In the end this was a welcome win from something of an unsatisfactory performance.  City will have to play better next weekend when they have two away games against Sikh Union, Nottingham on Saturday and Sheffield Hallam on Sunday.

Junior Hockey

City of Peterborough entered six teams at U9, U11 & U13 into 2 tournaments at Bedford and Kings Lynn with excellent results.

At Bedford - the Under 9s A team won the tournament beating Luton 3 – 2 in the final with goals from Max Crowson (2) and Brendan Andrews. The B team finished 4th overall

The Under 11s A team again won their competition drawing 0 – 0 with Cambridge City in the final before winning 2 – 1 on penalty strokes with goals from Alex Cliffe and Archie Spears and saves from goalkeeper Charlie Robinson.  The B team were unbeaten in their league matches but unfortunately had to play their own A team in the semi final.

At Pelicans, Kings Lynn, another Under 11 s team playing together for the first time did well to finish 5 th out of 8 teams and the under 13s played 6 won 3 and lost 3 with Henry Ricketts getting the star rating.

Saturday 10th November

East League Prem B - 2nd XI Vs  Long Sutton 1 st XI (A)    Won 7 – 1 Brendan Sullivan (3), Andrew Cave (2), Stuart Dawson & Craig Petrie

This was a startling performance by City 2nd XI in this important 2nd Vs 3rd local derby.  Perhaps fortunate to play Sutton when they were under strength due to 4 significant injuries, City consistently played the better hockey and if it was not for a magnificent display by the Long Sutton keeper could have won by more. City forced a series of short corners and converted 3 of these through Cave (2) and a rare goal from his midfield partner Dawson in the first half. Sutton threatened to get back in it with a goal following a short corner just before half time that City thought was struck from outside the circle. Sutton could never cope with Brendan Sullivan who had a fine game up front and he was rewarded with a second half hat-trick.  Sutton ccasionally threatened through ex-City star Gary Hales but generally the controlled hockey came from a City side that grows in confidence week by week.  Having only just pinched promotion from Division 1on the last day last season, City have now taken the top position from Wisbech on goals scored.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Ipswich & E S 1st XI (H)   Won 1 – 0  Joe Bradley

This match was marred by a terrible injury to City's very promising 15 years old midfielder Elliott Stevens who had to be taken by ambulance to hospital with a split knee cap. He has undergone surgery and will be out for the rest of the season at least. Although disrupted by this, City still managed to fashion a win out of a game where Ipswich & ES put up strong resistance and pressed for an equaliser towards the end, when only a spell of “keep ball” by City's senior players managed to successfully run down the clock.

Div 3NW  - 4th XI Vs Cambs Nomads 2nd XI (A)  Won 2 – 1 Martin Hill & Peter Hings

City pulled off a great win against previously unbeaten Nomads 2nd XI with a last minute goal from a Peter Hings short corner strike. This corner was awarded after an initial penalty stroke decision was overturned by agreement between the players on both sides. City played well overall and just about deserved their win which consolidates their position in the top half of the table.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Peterborough Exiles (A)  Won 3 – 2  David Cooper, Matt Bond & Joe Paul

In a close hard fought game City were able to control the play, and finished the stronger as Exiles tired, although a late second Exiles goal set up a nervous last couple of minutes.This was a crucial 3 points in a game between two teams in the bottom half of the table, and hopefully will kickstart City into turning more draws into wins, which has been their problem so far this season.

Div  5NW   -  6th XI Vs Newmarket 1st XI (H)  Won 4 – 2 Tom Clarkson (2) & Ian Kennedy (2)

City went to the top of the table with this convincing win in this first versus second clash against a determined Newmarket side. However City's blend of young and old always had that extra touch of class and came out comfortable winners to put themselves in a promising position for a second successive promotion.

Div 6NW   -  7th XI Vs Cambridge South 3rd XI (A)  Lost 1 – 3 Aussie Dave Simpson

This was a disappointing result for a City side that had shown improved form recently. Generally outplayed they only had a consolation goal from skipper Aussie Dave to show for their efforts.

Div 7NW   -  8th XI  Vs St Ives 5th XI (H)  Lost 0 – 6

This was the usual story with City outgunned and over powered by a much bigger and older St Ives side who were 5 - 0 up at half time. City improved in the second half and only conceded a penalty stroke. Harry Bladon performed well in goal for City.

East Veterans League

CoP Vets Vs Braintree Vets (H)  Cancelled - Braintree have pulled out of the league.

Sunday 4th November

HA Vets Cup Vs  Canterbury (H)  Lost 1 – 2  Shayne Andrews

Against a Canterbury side packed with players of longstanding National league experience, including Olympian Sean Kerly, City after initially giving the opposition too much respect, were desperately unlucky to lose an extremely tight match. Canterbury were the better side early on and took the lead through a fortunate short corner routine that initially went wrong, and in this period Jon Short was forced to make a number of good saves.

City steadily worked their way into the game and early in the second half the introduction of “walking wounded” Shayne Andrews resulted in an instant equaliser with a fine strike with almost his first touch.  Soon afterwards, a foul on Mike Yeoman gave City a penalty stroke which the usually very reliable Andrews agonisingly fired wide. Canterbury immediately replied with a defected goal, and were then happy to hold on and run down the clock quite expertly. City battled on and might have equalised from a number of short corners, but it was not to be. This is the first time for 3 seasons that City Vets have lost in normal time in the Cup, in the two previous years going out on penalties to eventual finalists. This team is clearly of the standard to progress, but must now wait another year..

Under 18s HA Cup    CoP Vs Norwich City  (A)  Won 9 – 0  Chris Green (2), Tom Hagues (3), James Grant, Alex Boxall, Arran Dawson & Tom Clarkson.

Although a couple of players short of their ideal eleven, City U18 were far too strong for Norwich , totally dominating the game. With a good draw they could go far in this competition.  This result shows the depth of talent available within the club and the rewards that are now being felt from the coaching system in which City have heavily invested over many years.

City also had 7 Players representing Cambridgeshire U14s in the East championship which they won with a record of played 4 won 4, goals for 17, goals against 1.  This Sunday they beat Essex 3 – 1 and Hertfordshire 3 – 0.  City's representatives were Jordon Heald, Adam Wilson, Marcus Howard, Eddie Fitch, Callum Rigby, Kyle Doyle and Joe Houghton.

Saturday 3rd November

Slazenger National League Div 2N  Vs Stourport (A)  Lost 5 – 6 Joe Finding, Kalbhir Takher, Scott Gilmour, Alex Boxall & Simon Shorter

City suffered a dramatic last minute loss when perhaps naively chasing the winner instead of settling for a draw.  City believed they were the better side throughout, although they had to cope with the late withdrawal through illness of keeper, Andy Grimwood. Jonathan Short deputised and did well in his practice for the Vets Cup match next day. The lead in this game changed hands on several occasions, including 4 goals within a dramatic final 5 minutes.Overall a good performance against one of the top sides but disappointing to not consolidate the league position with at least a deserved point.

East League Prem B  - 2nd XI Vs  Bury St Edmunds 1st XI (H)   Won 6 – 1 Tom Hagues (2), Joe Lester (2), Brendan Sullivan & Shane Vincent.

City started slowly and were caught out by a short corner switch move that resulted in a simple tap in for Bury.  City steadily improved but seemed intent on making the Bury keeper look good by shooting at him, until man of the match Tom Hagues completed an expert dribble with a tremendous reverse stick shot inside the far post. At 1-1 at half time City needed to step up the pace against a tidy and competent Bury side and the next goal proved vital with Sullivan, Vincent and Hagues converting expertly as they applied the pressure. After a Bury defender received a silly yellow card for dissent, City turned the screw with Joe Lester expertly converting two late chances, the second being brilliantly laid on by centre back, Sanjay Dhanani after a fine move resulted in him appearing in the right wing position, reportedly for the first time since 2002!

This, in the end, was a fine all round team performance that shows that City have players knocking on the door of the National League squad especially youngsters Tom Hagues and Neil Evans. There was also a notable performance from Stuart Dawson who linked most moves together very effectively in midfield.

Div 2N  -  3rd XI Vs Sudbury 1st XI (A)   Drew 3 – 3  Sam Ure, Joe Bradley & Josh Young

City conceded a late goal from a short corner to leave with a feeling that although they had only gained a draw with depleted resources, overall this was a fine performance.  Travelling with only 11, City were further handicapped when Sam Ure suffered an early injury.  They continued to compete very well, playing some good hockey highlighted by an amazing reverse stick goal from Joe Bradley who rarely gets in such positions and even more rarely troubles the scorers.  Even with the disappointing late concession of a goal this was a point won rather than 2 lost.

Div 3NW - 4th XI Vs Cambs South 1st XI (H)  Lost 1 – 4  Peter Hings.

City, not helped by some controversial umpiring at one end, had a disastrous day rather falling apart when the going got tough. Captain Chris Samuels (promoted to the 3 rd XI) was missed and this game is just best forgotten.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs St Ives 3rd XI (H)  Drew 1 – 1  Rob Fisher

This was said to be just about a fair result on the play, but City had expected better after drawing with St Ives 2nd's earlier in the league season.  In the end only a rare but welcome goal from seasoned campaigner Rob Fisher secured a point.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs St Neots 3rd XI (A) Won 2 – 1 Arran Nicholls (2)

This was a fine win for City in a hard game where they always played the better hockey despite skipper Graham Finding resting himself for the Vets Cup game next day.  Arran Nicholls scored both goals from short corner moves and the mix of older and young blended well.  This maintains City's high league position and sets them up for their top of the table clash next week with Newmarket 1st XI.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Horncastle 2nd XI (H)  Won 3 – 0 Dave Simpson, David cooper & Kyle Doyle.

This was a crucial game for City as before the game they were only 2 points clear of the bottom side Horncastle. City started positively and put loads of pressure on the Horncastle defence, although as has been the case for the season so far City couldn't capitalise on the scoreboard. Just before half time though, David Cooper struck a strong reverse stick shot that cannoned into the back board and gave City a 1 nil half time lead.
While Horncastle put more pressure on in the second half, City also kept attacking at will and capitalised with 2 second half goals, the second of which from Kyle Doyle was a result of an excellent string of passes and a classy finish. An excellent win, but still room for improvement!

Div 7NW  -  8th XI Vs Ely 4th XI (A)  Lost 0 - 6

City had to unfortunately travel without a regular goalkeeper and this was reflected in the final scoreline although a volunteer was found to stand between the posts.  Skipper, Peter Leaton, was pleased with his young squad and the hockey they played but Ely with 4 senior players were just too physically strong.

East Veterans League CoP Vets Vs Bishop's Stortford Vets (A)  Lost 0 – 1

City played well especially in the second half of a really competitive match.  Playing at 10.00hrs, allowed Stortford to assemble their best possible formation and this showed with early pressure with Returning pensioner GK Norman Gray, making some good saves.  A short corner strike off the inside of the post gave Stortford the lead and two goal line clearances kept City in it at 0 – 1 at half time.  A much improved second half display resulted in City producing the better hockey and chances but none of these were taken, and although deserving a draw City suffered an unfortunate defeat.

Saturday 27th October

East League Prem B - 2nd XI Vs  Pelicans 1st XI (A) Won 4- 2  Joe Finding (3) & Tom Hagues

This was an impressive performance from City against one of the favourites for promotion.  A goal down early on City equalised from a great strike on the reverse side from Tom Hagues that was a candidate for goal of the season until shortly afterwards when Joe Finding did the same thing but better, scoring off the inside of the far post.  City stretched their lead through an expert penalty conversion from Finding but were then were pegged back by a short corner goal from Pelicans, putting City under pressure for the next period. However it was Peterborough, with a deftly lifted goal over the keeper, that cliched Finding's hatrick and a vital win.  After promotion last year City are using their resources well, and allied to a fine team spirit they are surprising many in this section, currently maintaining second place in the table.

Div 2N -3rd XI Vs Cambridge City 3rd XI (H)  Won 3 – 0  Shayne Andrews (2) &  Shane Vincent

Despite the “walking wounded” nature of an integral part of the mature section of their team, City put on an excellent display to dent Cambridge City 3 rd XI's 100% record in convincing style.

Div 3NW   -  4 th XI Vs Ely City 1 st XI (H) .Lost  1 - 2

City felt aggrieved to have been on the receiving end of a late penalty decision that cost them a share of the points in this game.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Ely City 2 nd XI (A)Drew 1 - 1 Matt Bond (pf)

City were extremely poor in the first half, failing to get the basics right against an Ely side that should have been put to the sword. After a forthright half tern assessment they turned the game around in the second half and were rewarded with a penalty flick 3 minutes from time, following a crude challenge in the D to stop a certain goal. Matt Bond converted the flick but City viewed this as two points lost rather than a point gained.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs St Ives 4 th XI (A)   Drew 2 - 2 Aaran Nicholls, Adam Dudley

Fielding a side of 8 U16's and 3 adults City dominated long periods of this match playing an excellent controlled passing game. Unfortunately they failed to turn their chances into enough goals to deny a persistant St Ives team a late equaliser. St Ives relied on solid defence and breakaway attacks, taking the lead after 20 minutes. Peterborough stuck to their game plan and were rewarded with a half term lead courtesy of field goals from Aaaran Nicholls and Adam Dudley. St Ives came more into an evenly contested second half, of what was throughout an enjoyable and hard fought contest.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Ely City 3rd XI (A)  Lost 1 – 2  Kyle Doyle

The game started evenly with both teams playing attacking hockey which led to a number of shots on goal. City were playing a good brand of hockey with Adam Wilson in the midfield linking particularly well with the forwards. This attacking hockey led to many short corners that weren't capitalised on and which in the end cost City dearly.
The second half was again an even affair with Ely going ahead after fifteen minutes through a short corner. Soon after, Kyle Doyle was on the end of a good string of passes that led to a cool and classy finish past the goal keeper. Again City created opportunities, but again could not capitalise and put the ball in the back of the net.
With less than a minute to go, Ely made a final charge at goal that led to a tangle of bodies and sticks at the top of the D before the ball trickled into the back of the net. After a long consultation the umpires signalled for a goal and then blew the final whistle.
A heart breaking loss, the second this year that has occurred in the last 30 seconds of the game. While City are matching many of the teams in this higher league, and playing some excellent hockey, they are not making it count on the score board in part due to lacking experience and composure up front.  

Div 7NW   -  8 th XI  Vs Cambs South 4 th XI (H)  Lost 0 - 4

East Veterans League CoP Vets Vs Bedford Vets (H) Won 6 – 0    Ian Kennedy (4) & Tom Megginson (2)

Sunday 22nd October

HA Cup 3rd Round - City of Peterborough v Bowden (A) lost 20 - 0

In their first venture into the cup for a number of years, Peterboroughs "mix and match" side came unstuck against a full strength and fully committed Bowden side. Bowden had to date been enduring a difficult season since their return to the top flight of English hockey, but on the Saturday recorded their first win against Surbiton, and on the Sunday continued with the same full squad who played a 100% committed game against City from the first to the last whistle.

Peterborough continued to field their cup squad, including 8 regular second team players, the balance being drawn from the first and third teams. In numerous similar situations sides choose to concede fixtures, as was the case with Bowden ladies cup opposition due to play on the same day. To their credit the Peterborough side never stopped trying to play attacking hockey from start to finish, but were cruelly punished by a class Bowden side, most of whom play their regular fixtures 5 divisions higher. Notwithstanding the result, there were positives to be gained, by seeing how simple the game can be played by top players, whose movement and ball pace and clinical finishing left city chasing shadows for long periods.

Saturday 21st October

East League Prem B - 2nd XI Vs  Redbridge & Ilford 1st XI (H)   Won 4 – 0 Andrew Cave, Joe Kopka, Paul Hillsdon & Brendan Sullivan.

City boosted by the inclusion of a few 1st XI fringe players took a long time to subdue a spirited Redbridge & Ilford side.They took the lead through Cave in the first half but missed several chances before clinching the game well in the last 15 minutes. This gives the 2nd XI 3 wins out of 4 games but with many harder matches to come starting with Pelicans away next week.

Div 2N - 3rd XI Vs Ipswich 3rd XI (A)   Lost 0 - 1

City were lacking several of their best youngsters due to half term commitments but were bolstered by the return after long term injury of ex-first team skipper Mark Britton who settled in well after some initial “rustiness”.  In the end an early injury to Shayne Andrews proved important and City succumbed to a very late reverse stick strike.

Div 3NW  - 4th XI Vs Long Sutton 2nd XI (A)  Won 3 – 0 Peter Hings, Gaz Muhamed & Chris Samuel

This was another solid performance from City 4th XI who dominated most of the game and could have won by more.  They seem capable of going close to a promotion place on this form.

Div 4NW - 5th XI Vs Spalding 2nd XI (H) Won 3 – 1  Tom Handley, Peter Loader & Matt Bond

This was a welcome win for City's 5 th XI who were reinforced by the return of Club Chairman, Peter Loader after some weeks' absence.  He scored one of the goals and added some much needed “steel” in midfield.

Div  5NW - 6th XI Vs Market Deeping 3rd XI (H) Won 4 – 1 Tom Wadsworth (2), Marcus Howard & Adam Dudley (pf)

This was a very good win for the 6th XI, who particularly in the opening 20 minutes played their best hockey of the season to date. The opening goal was a text book right wing move set up by Aaron Nicholls and finished once again by Tom Wadsworth, his 7th goal of the season. Marcus Howard making his step up from the 7ths for the first time crowned an impressive debut with a fine individual goal.

Div 6NW - 7th XI Vs Wisbech 4th XI (H)  Drew 2 – 2  Alistair Bradley & Tom Clarkson.

City started the stronger, but Wisbech got the first goal against the run of play and then grew in confidence and scored another 5 minutes later. To our boy's credit, they dug deep, kept their heads up and played some attractive passing hockey. This was rewarded with a goal from a short corner to Alistair Bradley (he's never scored a better one!) and then another close to half time from Tom Clarkson (following another short corner).
The second half was hard fought with both teams creating good opportunities, but just failing to close out the game. Joe Houghton was exceptional in defence and Kyle Doyle showed great poise up front.

Div 7NW - 8 th XI Vs Spalding 4th XI (A)  Lost 1 – 6 Graham Finding

City found themselves out gunned and out muscled by a strong Spalding side.  There were some good displays by some of the promising youngsters who will have gained much from the experience, and continue to enjoy their hockey whatever the result..

East Veterans League - CoP Vets Vs Bury St Edmunds Vets (A) Won 3 – 0 Richard Herbage (3)

City came through a tough encounter against a determined Bury side with the help of a hat trick from Richard Herbage.  The combination of Herbage and Ian Kennedy, who has at last begun to understand the advantages of passing to others better placed in the circle, was the decisive factor.  John Daykin excelled in defence and Dave Hiles in goal pulled off three vital saves at critical points in the game.

Sunday 14th October

Slazenger National League Div 2N 1st X1 v Barford Tigers (A) Lost 1-4 Scott Gilmour

This was a lack lustre and disappointing result from City against a side that had only previously gained 1 point from their first 5 fixtures.  A depleted Peterborough side, with a number of positional reshuffles tried to beat Barford at their own game, and suffered the consequences.

Despite a first half of constant pressure it was only on the stroke of half time that Barford forced the ball over the line, although they had previously seen a penalty flick well saved by Andy Grimwood. Every team has their spell, and for the first 15 minutes of the second half Peterborough put together the type of flowing passing hockey that presents them at their best, and got back on terms through a well worked short corner finished by Scott Gilmour.

Unfortunately for City they quickly slipped back into the disappointing form that they showed in the first half, and were duly punished by a much more highly motivated Barford side.

HA Vets (over 40's) Cup - CofP Vets v St Neots (A) Won 6-0 Shayne Andrews (2), Ian Kennedy, Aggi Milner, Peter Hings, Mike Yeoman

City put on a controlled display to progress through to the next round of a competition in which they have reached the last 16 in the previous two seasons. Always having too much class against a determined and enthusiastic St Neots side for whom Sean Sanderson stood out. City however contrived to miss a hatfull of chances to only lead 1-0 at half time via an expertly converted penalty stroke from Shayne Andrews.

As St Neots tired City scored further goals at regular intervals , the pick of them being Aggi Milners carefully lifted shot over a diving keeper. Harder tasks await City, but it was good to see Neville Keir showing he has lost none of his skill in an all to rare appearance in a City shirt.

Saturday 13th October

East League Premier B -  2 nd XI Vs  Wisbech 1 st XI (A)   Lost 1 - 4 Craig Petrie

City were brought down to earth by a Wisbech side that out-muscled them in the second half.  At 1 -1 at the interval the next goal was always going to be important and Wisbech gained this and their fast raids led to short corners that were expertly converted as City chased the game.

Div 2N - 3 rd XI Vs Bedford Town 2nd XI (H)   Won 3 – 2  Shayne Andrews & Shane Vincent (2)

Against a very experienced Bedford side, City 3 rd XI dominated playing fast open hockey but somehow found themselves 1 – 2 down with 10 minutes to play.  To their credit they still kept playing the right way and as Bedford obviously tired, two of several short corners were expertly switched for “Vinny” (Shane Vincent) to secure the points the last goal coming in the final minute.  Vincent was awarded the Man of the Match tag but there were also excellent performances from Sam Ure and Josh Young.

Div 3NW - 4 th XI Vs March Town 2nd XI (H)  Won 5 – 0  Peter Hings (3) Yusef Xaji & Stuart Bond

March gave City a hard game and for a long period 1 – 0 looked a precarious scoreline.  However helped by some great striking from short corners by Peter Hings, City eventually came out comfortable winners.

Div 4NW - 5 th XI Vs Wisbech 3 rd XI (A)  Lost 0 -2

City felt they were unlucky to lose this match as they were handicapped by an injury to their goalkeeper T J West and acting skipper Neil Webb had to don the pads. City only conceded the second goal because of  an unfortunate deflection off defender James Fisher's stick, having created a number of chances of their own, but without the fire-power to make them tell..

Div  5NW - 6 th XI Vs Alford 2 nd XI (A)   Lost 0 – 3

Against a club that doesn't travel very well, City faced a surprisingly strong home Alford's side, and were beaten by 3 excellent strikes from a centre forward who looked misplaced at this level. However, there were encouraging performances from David Cooper and Jake Ledbrook, both stepping up from the 7's, and City remain confident of comfortably holding their own in this division following last seasons promotion.

Div 6NW - 7 th XI Vs Long Sutton 3rd XI (A)  Drew 1 – 1 Stuart Mathers

A good point was gained by City 7th XI in a close game they thought they should have won.  Stuart Mathers looked a useful addition to the ranks scoring on his debut. Unfortunately captain Aussie Dave, like his compatriots, is so far unable to instill a winning mentality. (Sorry Dave couldn't resist it).

Div 7NW   -  8 th XI  Cancelled – Long Sutton 4 th XI has withdrawn from the league.

East Veterans League CoP Vets Vs Cambridge City Vets (H) Won 4 -1  Ian Kennedy (2) & Tom Megginson (2)

City eased to a comfortable win against a side that for once was about the same average age as them.  City now have a 50% record in the league but are finding it harder this season.

Sunday 7th October

Slazenger National League Div2N 1st XI Vs Leek (H) Won 2 – 1   Joe Finding & Matthew Sutterby

An extremely hard fought win was finally achieved by City with 2 goals in the last 4 minutes.  The game was always threatening to boil over after an incident 10 minutes into the game when Carl Daniels received a very nasty injury (Requiring 10 stitches to his mouth). This was adjudged an accident by the umpire who gave the Leek player involved the benefit of the doubt and only a green card.  Leek took the lead after 26 minutes when a deflected free hit deceived Andy Grimwood.  City continued to dominate but even when the game exploded into some rash challenges, with 2 Leek players receiving yellow cards and temporary suspensions, Peterborough could not force home the 2 player advantage despite some good attacking play.

Shortly afterwards City's player/coach Kalbir Thakher's will to win attitude got the better of him and he was suspended for 5 minutes.  City however kept going and when it was back to 11 a side were awarded a penalty stroke which Joe Finding converted.  Almost immediately Leek won their only penalty corner, a fair measure of the balance of the game, from which a shot was fired narrowly wide. In stoppage time, City gained a short corner, leading to another, and a rehearsed move saw Matthew Sutterby flick home to grab a dramatic winner, which was