Hockey
Coach bemoans errors

BROMSGROVE Hockey Club’s Ladies’ coach Alan Gormley has called on his side to cut out the errors if they are to climb away from the wrong end of the Midlands Feeder League West table in the second half of the season.

It has been tough going for Bromsgrove so far this season after gaining promotion last term, winning just two of their first ten fixtures to sit eighth in the ten-team table.

Following Saturday’s 4-1 defeat at Stourport 2nds, Gormley said: “Before the game we talked long and hard about the need to cut out costly errors but somehow we yet again gave the opposition three goals.

“We will have absolutely no chance of improving our league position unless we stop this.

“The Christmas break will give the girls time to reflect on this very tough campaign and to come back determined to rectify things. The effort they put in cannot be questioned, let’s hope Santa brings us an error eraser for Christmas.”

Stourport took an early lead from an unstoppable corner on Saturday and although Chrissy Smith and Vicky Powell worked hard up front Bromsgrove were unable to draw level.

A poor pass in midfield allowed Stourport to gain possession and double their lead but Laura Collins made it 2-1 with a well taken penalty corner.

Good defending from Naomi Cartwright, Emma Cockbain and Justine Postones prevented Stourbridge from adding to their lead before the interval.

Kirsty Gormley and Jo Eddy combined well in the second half and together with Heather Nunnerley and Kate Jones created several half chances but were Bromsgrove were unable to make any of them count.

The game turned firmly in Stourport’s favour when Bromsgrove lost keeper Bee Evans to a red card and Jones was powerless to prevent the penalty flick that followed.

A fourth goal completed the scoring to leave Bromsgrove disappointed at the full time whistle.

THE 2nds overcame Stourport 4ths 3-0 to maintain their three point lead at the top of Worcestershire League Division Two.

Sarah Gormley suffered a cut head early in the contest but with no substitutes available she was patched up and gamely battled on.

Frankie Walters put Bromsgrove ahead when picking up a rebound and lifting the ball over the keeper.

Lisa Smiley made it 2-0 from a penalty corner before Kerry Hadley added a third.

Only a brilliant display from Stourport’s goalkeeper prevented the final margin of victory being even greater.

JUSTINE Ledwith’s first ever goal for Bromsgrove helped the 3rds to a 3-0 victory against Tenbury and a third straight success.

Natalie Parry broke clear to open the scoring before Ledwith doubled the advantage after half time.

Bromsgrove defended well and Charis Walters performed well when called upon to keep a clean sheet.

Anna Evans completed the scoring to secure a comprehensive win against the league leaders.