Young players shine at hockey festival

THORNBURY Hockey Club took part in the recent Avon Junior Hockey League under-12 mixed team festival.

On this occasion, Niamh Robinson was the sole girl taking part, as illness prevented the other girls from joining in the action. She was a constant threat up front during the event at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex.

William Ormond and Freddie Barker shared the goal keeping duties, with both making a number of fine saves when in goal.

Freddie Rimmer made purposeful runs from midfield and Gilbert Melton was solid in defence.

Other team members Arthur Robinson, Toby Rees, Adam Rees and Jacob Dean - all aged under 10 - performed well against older opponents.

Thornbury organiser and coach Corinne Robinson was rightly pleased with the team's performance.

At senior level, the ladies 1sts gained their first win against UWE in five attempts. The 3-1 victory was well-deserved.

Wins continued over Lydney 3rds (50), Knowle 2nds (10-0) and Badminton/ Pucklechurch (9-0).

Coz Deas lead the way, with Sophie Vizzard, Alice Atkinson, Vicky Ball , Esther Jenkinson, Jo Deas and Ella Clark all getting on the scoresheet.

Thornbury 2nds continue to display promise.

A loss against league leaders Wick 2nds was followed by a commendable 2-2 draw against Bristol Bluebirds.

The young side were complimented on the way they encouraged each other in their latest game at Westberries 5ths.

Thornbury men continue to impress: Firebrands 5ths were beaten 4-3 and Old Bristolians

4ths 7-0, with Pardeep Bhogal scoring one of the goals on his return following injury.

In their latest game the team became the first to take points from Westbury & Utd Banks 3rds, courtesy of a 4-4 draw, with Sam Amos and Steve Wyres scoring a brace each.

David Parry-Jones