Old Loughtonians score three second half goals to defeat challengers Canterbury - Feb 21: Maurice Kittrell reports:

OLD LOUGHTONIANS 3 CANTERBURY 0

Under a sunny sky and in perfect playing conditions the Old Loughtonians entertained Canterbury in The Slazenger England Hockey League Men’s East Conference Division in a match, which could have a bearing on the outcome of the Division title if not play-off positions.

In a game of such importance it was anticipated that both teams would be full of fire and brimstone eager to score those vital goals. But it was not to be as for most of the first half the game developed into a mid field battle, with only the occasional breaks by the forwards.

Danny Cheeseman and Oliver Didham only showed glimpses of their potential and were largely held in check by a resolute Canterbury defence. The visitor’s forwards, which the exception of their centre forward who often left the home defence stranded by an exception turn of speed, were contained by the Old Loughtonians defence.

As half time approached the Old Loughtonians forced a series of short corners, and from the second should had scored when Alex Jennings blasted a rebound over the bar from five yards in front of an empty net.

The second half started at a faster pace but for the first ten minutes it was again a mid field battle. But suddenly, with a series of probes down their left flank the Old Loughtonians started to make in roads in to the Canterbury defence and created several scoring chances but without finding the net.

Danny Cheeseman was clear in front of goal but his shot few past the far post but this was the signal for the home team to launch a period of sustained pressure. A slick passing movement resulted in James Stedman breaking in to the circle from the right wing and he drove the ball high in the top corner of the net.

Within two minutes the Old Loughtonians scored again when Chris Steward fired the ball past an advancing keeper.

Canterbury rallied and put the home defence under pressure and forced two short corners, which was well saved by the Old Loughtonians keeper Stuart Hendy.

A goal for the visitors would had ensured an interest last ten minutes but it was not to be as from the restart the home team scored their third goal and the points were secure. Oliver Didham used his speed to beat his marker and from the edge of the circle drove the ball home.

A three - nil score line justified the Old Loughtonians victory on their second half performance

A below par performance by both teams resulted in a drab and uninteresting game for the spectators. Both teams need to improve their tactical, skill, and passing abilities if they wish to compete in the Premium League.