A dreary Saturday this week saw the first breach of “Fort Burnaby Road” when Gillingham 2 came down to play US Men’s. US were unbeaten this season and everyone knew Gillingham would be a tough team to beat after their record in the previous seasons. US ran out with intentions to damage the opposition as much as they had in their previous games. However, a tough Gillingham midfield and defence meant the ball was lost as quickly as it was won and US quickly found themselves fighting from their defensive lines to repel the Gillingham attacks.
After two unsuccessful short corners United Services seemed to fight back a little with some space created. Unfortunately no attacks came to fruition and Gillingham scored their first goal about 20 minutes in. The work rate was immense for both the teams and ample of opportunity were given to Gillingham to score but each time US cleared their lines. The clearances, though, could not seem to find a connection with midfield and attack and at half US were really struggling to stay in the game, thought they were only 1-0 down. As soon as Services ran back out for the second half they were ignited again and hungry for the win. The control in midfield was better and they began to find space and recycle the ball really well. However a devastating counter attack led to Gillingham’s second goal within the first 15 minutes. It took another 5 minutes for Services to come to terms with the concede but as soon as they had they began playing some brilliant hockey. They found space after space and for the last 10 minutes they emptied the tank and everyone worked the hardest they could muster. After two short corners US finally pushed one passed the stalwart Gillingham defence, the goal scorer; Aaron Marshall, with a little help from opposition sticks on the line. A first defeat of 2-1 for the US Men’s team season and one they will take many lessons from but one that they can say they gave their all in energy.
