Penarth Predators represent Wales (From Penarth Times)

Penarth Predators represent Wales

TWO MEMBERS of Penarth Predators Roller Hockey Club were in action last weekend when they represented Wales in a GB in-line roller hockey tournament.

Matthew Hookins and Lee Jones, both from Dinas Powys and pupils of St Cyres Comprehensive, were members of the U-16 squad, playing matches against the Midlands, the North and the South of England.

The venue was Deeside in North Wales and the Welsh squad, who were missing key players, away on ice hockey duty, were expecting very tough matches.

The opening game against the South was a very even contest, with the Welsh squad having the upper hand. The South, however, were first to score, after a defensive lapse by Wales, but Wales soon hit back with two well-taken goals. A win looked on the cards before a late equaliser saw the game finish at 2-2. Lee and Matthew were the Welsh scorers.

The second game against a very strong Midlands squad, was a much tougher affair and Wales struggled. With goals flowing fast and furious the Midlands overcame the Welsh by six goals to two. Welsh scorers, Matthew Hookins and Gareth Evans (Cwmbran).

The final game against the North, saw Wales having many chances in the final period before another good Matthew Hookins goal put them in the lead. The North came back strongly in the final period, but excellent goal minding by Chris Pratt (Pontypool) kept them at bay, but a late North goal gave them a deserved draw.

With players due back for the next round at Bisley on January 19, confidence is high. The two Penarth representatives took pride of place, with Lee scoring one and two assists, and Matthew top scoring and looking by far the best Welsh forward, with three.