First ever own goal

by Patrick Rowley (11.10.2009)

Reading, the English Cup holders, were the beneficiaries of the first ever official own goal in hockey when they drew 2-2 with Spanish club Atletico Terrassa in the Euro League at Barcelona (yesterday,Sunday).

Own goals are not allowed under the rules of hockey but are permitted in the Euro League.

Xavi Ribas, the 33 year old Spanish defender, turned a ball centred from outside the scoring circle into his own goal.

Ribas had earlier also scored for his own side while Richard Mantell, the Olympic defender, converted a corner for Reading.

Surbiton took advantage of Reading’s absence from the England League at the week-end, by going a point clear of them by drawing 5-5 with champions East Grinstead. Surbiton were 5-3 down going into the last ten minutes but were saved from defeat by two handsome strikes by England forward James Tindall.

Copy for Daily Mail, 12October 2009