Sandwick was the venue for the first match of the winter skate hockey season. The first hour of the session was spent removing the Christmas cobwebs with a series of basic skating and passing drills then the 16 players were divided into two teams. Each team had a first line, a line is a group of players who substitute on and off together, made up of more experienced players and a second line of less experienced ones.
The match started with the second lines competing for possession. The Whites having the advantage in attack but the Blacks defence, bolstered by Christopher Storey one of the clubs most able defenders, easily able to prevent any dangerous moves on Amy Harper who was trying her hand at goalkeeping for the first time. The first lines came on at the next face off and the Blacks dominated in all areas of the pitch. James Nicolson worked tirelessly for the Blacks in defence and provided an additional line of attack by moving into advanced positions. The remainder of the first half followed a similar pattern for both lines and finished without score.
The second period was a different affair for the first lines. As the Blacks tired the Whites attack was able to make more impact and Ruairidh Mackenzie scored at the end of a long shift. Taking the ball from deep in his own half Ruairidh jinking past several challenges and neatly wrong footed the goalkeeper putting the ball in the left corner. The second lines rejoined their battle with neither side able to gain dominance and once more it was left to the first lines to score, this time a neat interchange of passes between Kieran Smith and James Nicolson made space for Magnus Laurenson who delayed his shot until a screen of players blocked the goalkeepers view, then he placed the ball low between the goalkeepers legs. It didn't take long for Whites to reply. Once again Ruairidh Mackenzie was able to find space as the Black line tired and scored on another solo break. James Nicolson takes the plaudit as MVP (Most Valuable Player) and points were awarded to Ruairidh Mackenzie (2 goals), Magnus Laurenson (1 goal), James Nicolson (1 assist).
The next match is at the Clickimin Centre on Saturday 12th at 1pm.