Hockey: Marlborough men lose to top of table City of Bath

Marlborough vs City of Bath                    

Marlborough lose 0-2

With an unusually late pushback of 5pm, Marlborough made the short trip to Bath to face City who were top of the league and had yet to taste defeat this season.  

Historically Marlborough have always risen to the occasion and played better against top teams and after a rousing team talk from skipper Rich Holman, Marlborough were set to do the same again.

Both sides started the game positively and it became clear early on that this would be a game where both sides would be given the license to express themselves.  

Marlborough’s early defensive work was resolute and it was clear that they were tactically sound as they restricted City to constant aerial through balls rather than playing the more conventional route of through the middle of the pitch.

However disaster struck as only a momentary lapse of concentration led to a quick taken goal by City.  A clear reminder of why they are enjoying such a lofty position in the league so far.  

Marlborough had several good chances to counter but were unable to supply that final killer ball to the right place for the finishing touch.

The second half began with Marlborough re-doubling their efforts and they soon had City rocking after several penetrating moves and close calls.  City themselves responded robustly with a change of formation and personnel in several positions in a bid to retake the momentum from Marlborough.  

The game ebbed and flowed with City noticeably nervous at having such a slender lead and their unbeaten streak on the line.  

Their fears were finally put to bed two minutes before the end of the game when they were awarded a penalty flick for a clear foul. It was safely converted leaving no time for Marlborough to mount any response.

The game ended 2-0 in favour of City but Marlborough could definitely hold their heads high after a rousing performance which earned much respect from their opponents.