Brooklands were looking to bounce back after a disappointing game away at Sevenoaks the week before, this week’s visitors were Reading Hockey Club.
The game started on a positive note for the hosts dictating play and dominating possession. Unfortunately Brooklands were unable to create any meaningful chances and Reading took an early lead through a well executed short corner routine.
This didn't affect the Brooklands lads as they continued to pile on the pressure winning numerous short corners however failing to convert and provide any scoreboard pressure.
At half time coach Mark Bateman, reiterated the need for high ball speed and high intensity to help build the pressure in the second half. Brooklands took this to heart, and had the better of the early exchanges in the second half, with Peter |Flanagan equalising with his trademark low short corner drag flick.
Brooklands then dominated both in possession and chances with Ollie Clarke showing his fast dribbling skills and create a chance for David Flanagan to flick powerfully home into the roof of the net. Now with Brooklands 2-1 ahead the home side were full of confidence and dictating the way the game was played. A physical altercation between Richard Slater and a Reading‘s GB international Liam Sanford, left Richard on his knees at the top of the D This scuffle resulted in both players receiving 5 minute yellow cards.
Reading then managed to score a goal against the run of play, with the umpires believing the ball had crossed the line after a scramble in the Brooklands D. Post-match analysis of the video confirms that ball hadn’t crossed the line, but the umpires decision was final and it was back all square at 2-2
At 2-2 both teams were pushing for all three points and Reading managed to grab the winner through a rebound after a good save by Chris Scott from the initial short corner. Brooklands had some late short corners, but the precision wasn’t there to force a deserved equaliser.
Brooklands were disappointed with the result after the game, but happy with the improved performance and looking forward to Wimbledon at home this coming Sunday at 2pm