Men's 1st Team Vs Birmingham Uni 5

University of Birmingham 5s 2-0 Yardley 1stXI

Yardley ended the season with a narrow defeat against an already promoted side, but secure 7th place. Yardley travelled away to University of Birmingham 5s in their final game of the season. UoB 5s, already promoted, looked to maximise their goal scoring season already into the 90s before the game.

On a bouncy pitch, Yardley quickly got to grips with the ball but struggled for large parts to get out of their half and attack the opposition goal. UoB 5s who had 11 outfield players (including a kicking back), looked to control the tempo of the game and kept the ball well, but a Yardley defence of Mat, Ed and Noah, did well to keep them at bay and thwart any dangerous attacks. When Yardley did go forward, they looked a threat, Alex, Zach and Harry looking to play in striker Rob, but little came from these opportunities. Late into the half, UoB looked to press in search for the opening goal, but 0-0 it was at the break.

In the second half it was the home side that pressed and looked more threatening with Neal coming in to make several key saves to keep us in the game. Kyle and Jahed had some joy on the wings but every ball to Rob was cut out by the home side’s kicking back. Eventually, Uob won a short corner and took advantage with a goal into the corner. Yardley seemed unfazed by this and continued as a team in search of an equaliser. UoB would be fortunate to take a free hit from a moving ball, to score just inside the area. The visitors were under pressure thereafter to keep the score low with few inspiring attacks bringing no joy. Late on Kyle was caught in the mouth with a stick after two  UoB players collided with each other, which cut his game short.

A tough but enjoyable game that secured 7th place in what has been a strong season. Yardley 1stXI now go into the summer break with club day and a Torbay Hockey Festival to enjoy.