M4s start the New Year with three points

Back to work for the Development Team with a rearranged match against Ricky 3s, who are in the running for the promotion places. We started solidly, passing the ball around well and stretching the opposition. We didn't quite have the edge in their D and we were unable to convert the pressure into a goal. After some sustained pressure, It took some good stickwork from Doug to weave passed a couple of players and finish well to open the scoring. We kept the majority of the possession and territory but Ricky looked dangerous on the break and their only shot of the first half sneaked in and we went into the break 1-1. The balance of the game changed for the first 15 minutes of the second half. We became very static and couldn't retain possession, and had to soak up the pressure. Sam bossed the defence effectively and we stayed firm, and eventually got back on top. Tim found Ciaran at the top of the D, who finished with a smart tomahawk - this was the moment of the match. We lost Thomas after he took a stick to the face, but kept the pressure on when another short corner result in a stroke. Howie calmly despatched the stroke and we finished 3-1 winners. Three points gained, and some good hockey played, and a good start to the New Year