Hockey season starts in earnest (From Penarth Times)

Hockey season starts in earnest

PENARTH Hockey Club opened the 2005-6 season with a friendly game against Whitchurch last Saturday.

Fielding a squad drawn mainly from their First XI, Penarth made a strong start taking the lead after 15 minutes.

A line ball from Dave Stevens to James Kidby was passed to Owain Hopkins who fought off two defenders to slot the ball home in the bottom left hand corner.

Penarth continued to look promising, producing some good moves, but were beaten at a short corner to turn round at half time with the score at 1-1.

Whitchurch started the second half strongly, scoring two quick goals, one from a short corner and the other from open play. Penarth gradually got back into their stride and reduced the deficit with a goal from James Kidby.

Despite Whitchurch being reduced to ten men and Penarth having several chances in the closing minutes of the game, they failed to alter the scoreline ending up 3-2 losers. Man of the Match was Owain Hopkins.

This weekend sees friendly fixtures continue with matches against Cwmbran.

Training begins on Monday, September 12 at Leckwith Stadium with Juniors and Mixed training from 6 to 7pm and for Seniors from 7 to 8pm.

There is a registration evening for all club members on Monday, September 12, to be held at Penarth Athletic Club from about 8.30pm. All players are urged to attend.