First win of the season for Ipswich

MEN'S HOCKEY

Broxbourne 1 Ipswich 4

IPSWICH picked up their first win of the season in the Printwize East Premier A division.

Ipswich were two goals to the good within five minutes. In their first attack Simon Miller drove into the circle unchallenged and released a ferocious shot that beat the keeper easily.

Ipswich's next attack was again started and finished by Miller. A sloppy pass by Jimmy Fox was intercepted by Miller. The Ipswich stalwart beat his man with confidence and again fired an unstoppable shot, this time high to the keeper's right to claim his fifth goal in three games.

A lack of concentration allowed Broxbourne back into the game. Slack defending permitted the home side to attack down the right and a superb cross by Rob Alder was converted by youngster Damien Bell.

Broxbourne could have drawn level before the break has it not been for a string of fine saves by the Ipswich keeper Stuart Hendy.

Ten minutes into the second half the visitors regained their two goal advantage. Captain Richard Fox intercepted a cross field pass and fired home from the top of the circle to steady the Ipswich ship.

Ipswich, now visibly relieved to hold the upper hand in this topsy-turvy game, set about playing some wonderful attacking hockey.

Clever play from Jon Cuff and Matthew Walker in midfield allowed Ipswich space to attack in numbers and their pressure earned them another goal five minutes from time.

Cuff's trickery on the right confused the Broxbourne defence and his quick pass found Richard Stainthorpe with his back to goal. The lively forward composed himself and his clever reverse stick shot left the keeper with no chance.