Preston 3

Winnington Park 1

Northern Counties Hockey League Division Two West

Saturday, March 17

WINNINGTON Park knew this fixture was going to be tough, as Preston had recently hit top form by scoring nine goals in their last two matches.

The game plan was to pack the midfield and try and play on the break, probably a suitable tactic to play against most sides, but Park were not prepared for the Preston game plan.

They had two, sometimes three, forwards permanently based up front, which made it difficult for a Park side that did not intend to defend too deep.

Preston's first goal seemed to kick-start Park, who then took charge and replied with a deserved equalizer when, on his debut, Phil Hunt cleverly deflected a cross into the net.

The second goal to be conceded was unfortunate, as there was some confusion around a decision by the official to attempt to play the advantage rule. Preston were fortunate to get this opportunity to play on, as they were when the goal was allowed to stand despite Park's appeals for a deliberate foul on their keeper.

Park started the second half confidently, just as they had finished the first, and their hard work and determination to battle was getting the better of Preston who were fielding some young players who were displaying some very polished skilful stickwork.

But they must have been given around 15 penalty corners in the second half, converting only one, which gave the defence no chance as they were well outnumbered from this set piece move.

For the final league match Park will require the full commitment from all players and are calling on all members and supporters to come along and support the last home fixture against Morecambe.

WINNINGTON'S 2nd team lost 3-1 against Didsbury (S Pinson); 3rds drew 1-1 with Sefton (J Osborne); 4ths lost 2-0 to Sale; Badgers drew 0-0 against Bolton.

WINNINGTON Park ladies 1sts had a busy weekend with league games on both Saturday and Sunday, but their trip to Yorkshire only yielded one point.

On Saturday, Park drew 1-1 at York, recovering from 1-0 down at half-time to produce a much better second period performance, culminating in a goal by captain Karen Thwaites, converted from a short corner.

Unfortunately, Park were unable to press home their territorial advantage and had to settle for a draw.

On Sunday Park played Driffield, and were frustrated to lose 3-2 after being 2-1 up late in the game. Eileen Miller opened the scoring only for Driffield to equalize just before half-time.

A torn hamstring forced Kirsty Robinson off just after the break, leaving Park with only ten players, but Karen Thwaites managed to score a second and Park only needed to hold on.

However, Driffield continued to challenge Park's defence and exploited some poor marking to score two further goals. Nevertheless, the point picked up on their travels should still be enough to keep them out of the relegation zone and their future next season in the First Division is reasonably secure.

Winnington 2nds travelled to Alsager to play Congleton with only three regular players, and lost 5-0 The team was supplemented with junior players who played excellently, but Congleton exploited Winnington's lack of cohesion and experience with a fine display of passing hockey.

Winnington started well and the match was even during the first 20 minutes; but Congleton's increasing confidence exploited defensive errors.

The final score could have been much higher had it not been for the brave efforts of Jenny Lewis playing her first game in goal, and she was named man of the match.

This week, Park 1sts are away to Sheffield; 2nds home to Daten; 3rds at Neston.