THE new hockey season is well underway, and Bristol & West HC is making its presence felt across the regional leagues.
With standout scorelines, strong tactical discipline, and a buzzing club atmosphere at Mangotsfield School, B&W’s squads have enjoyed a brilliant start to the campaign.
The Men’s 1st XI are off to a flying start, with three wins out of three so far.
They started on the road with a proper ‘smash and grab’ job away at Swindon.
After going a goal down and levelling minutes later, with about 10 minutes to go the side conceded a penalty flick that was tipped onto the post and saved by goalkeeper Darren Ashley.
The lads went on to win the game with the very last touch of the match, the final whistle ringing as celebrations were still ongoing.
Returning to home turf, they followed up with a more composed performance to see off Royal Wootton Bassett 1s (5-2), then dominated in a convincing 5-0 away win over City of Bath 2s.
Top of the table, they are looking to keep the momentum going after 13 wins on the bounce, including the end of last season.
The Men’s 2nd XI have made a solid start, displaying great attacking flair to see off Swansea 2s 6-0, followed by a 2-1 win away to Whitchurch 2s.
They lost a tough contest 3-1 against Cardiff University 2s, but spirits remain high moving forward.
The Men’s 3s opened with a 6-6 draw with North Somerset 1s, then thumped their next two opponents 6-0 and 7-0 respectively.
The women’s section has matched the men stride for stride.
The Firsts have hit the ground running, demonstrating sharp tactical organisation, defensive solidity and clinical finishing.
Their impressive early wins – over Westberries 2s (3-2), Corsham 1s (3-0) and Team Bath 4s (1-0) – highlight the high standard of hockey being played across the board.
Not to be outdone, the L2s have also dominated early on with three wins out of three – a seriously impressive start.
Elsewhere, the club’s heartbeat remains its flourishing junior section. Sunday mornings at Mangotsfield School continue to buzz with energy as new juniors pick up sticks for the first time, supported by dedicated coaches and volunteers who ensure the pipeline for local hockey talent remains robust.
Recent results saw the U14s go unbeaten at a tournament in Yate, followed by thrashing South Glos, who had a couple of adults on the pitch, 11-1.
For more information about the club visit www.bandwhc.org.uk.
Harry Bryant