14th Mar 2020 Mens 2nd v Sheffield Univ Bankers 3(Home) 2 - 4 loss
In a week where selection was hampered by the twin threats to winter hockey - ‘flu and skiing, Ben Rhydding fielded their most youthful side of the season.
After some good work by Walsh, Dunn and Hagan, Rhydding scored from their second short corner. As the Sheffield keeper stepped to cover the far post Aaron Terry shot inside the near post. The relief of going in front was short-lived as Sheffield broke down the Rhydding left and deflected a cross in past the hapless Benedikz. He was lucky to stay on the pitch after a terrible tackle on another Sheffield forward which was missed by both umpires.
The second half started badly with Sheffield taking an early lead. Their dominance in midfield led to an overload in the circle and a strong finish. Rhydding hit back as strong running from Pétur Benedikz onto a pass by Maddaford, left him 1-on-1 with the keeper. Hagan collected the save and won a short corner from which Aaron Terry scored his second to restore parity.
Liam Terry’s dedication on the line at a short corner saw Sheffield awarded a flick and left him side-lined for the next 10mins to recover. The weak flick was saved but Benedikz was at fault for the third goal as he should have covered the short corner hit to just inside the right post.
Sheffield continued to overrun the midfield and, although Ryan and Horsman defended doggedly, Sheffield were always a threat. Aaron Terry’s novel delaying tactics of laying on the ball won the team a very short respite, and Aaron a green card. Tired legs were unable to track back, and the final goal came as Sheffield were able to run unchallenged from the halfway line, then into the circle before finishing at the near post.
Defeat represents the likely end to chances of promotion. Rhydding travel to Ramgarhia next week relying on Halifax to beat second placed York, before Rhydding welcome York for the final game of the season. Promotion is unlikely, but not impossible.