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Saturday 13th March
A gallant Alderley Edge has lost to Chester in the second last match of the season 4-0. With four regulars unavailable for the match, Edge went in with the game plan of trying to make it difficult for Chester, currently second in the league, to play their free flowing break away hockey.
Edge started the match well, matching Chester, and through Scarsbrook and Badger at the back controlled the flow of the game. Some good link up play from Bryant, McPherson and McGowan down the right was able to create attacking opportunities for edge that they were unable to capitalise on. But it was Chester who broke the dead lock from a penalty corner with a drag flick low to a diving Ben Kelly’s right.
Chester then continued to up the anti in the last 10 minutes of the half. A decision caught Edge on the back foot in side their defensive 23 meter line and some poor tackling allowed a Chester player to convert a reverse stick shot from 10 yards out.
With only minutes remaining Alderley broke down the right with some great link up play, eventually finding Sam Gregory who’s first time strike was well saved by a diving goalkeeper.
The first 20 minutes of the second half saw Alderley pressing hard to try and stay in the game. Some great movement up front from Hardy and the Gregory’s allowed Edge to create some good opportunities. Great ball distribution from Man of the Match, Danny Butterworth, and link up play from Joe Gregory down the left, allowed Ben Gregory to use his pace and put the Chester defence under pressure.
Alderley then conceded a penalty flick on the break, with 10 minutes remaining, which gave Chester a 3-0 lead. Some slack marking then lead to a tap in on the back post for their fourth.
It was a great effort from the 11 Alderley players, who will look to bounce back in the last game of the season away in Stockton next Saturday.
Saturday & Sunday 6/7th February
Alderley double delight
In North Hockey League One, Alderley Edge Men’s first team went into second place with two fine victories over the weekend.
Saturday saw Alderley Edge made the short journey to Belle Vue, to take on Manchester. They put in a thoroughly professional performance to come away with a comfortable 4 – 1 win.
Starting brightly Edge made the running, passing the ball tidily on the quick surface, when James McPherson’s penalty corner strike was saved Sam Gregory was on hand to put in the rebound.
Manchester with several very skilful players tried repeatedly to run with the ball, but the Edge defensive unit stuck to their task well and did not give up cheap possession.
Then Edge scored a fine second goal, patiently moving the ball around the back until a gap appeared then a quick break gave Gregory the chance to grab his second.
Half time meant a respite for Manchester, and Alderley Edge knew the next goal was crucial. It came quickly and was the goal of the game, a fantastic series of passes gave Ben Gregory the chance to shoot from the top of the D and he superbly found the bottom corner.
Manchester put together several attacks and pulled a goal back from a dubious penalty corner strike; however the result was never in doubt once Sam Gregory completed his hat-trick.
On Sunday, Rotherham were the visitors, and they defended stoutly and Edge took only a single goal lead into the break, the second came quickly after the restart and then on a regular basis.
At 5-0, Rotherham scored a consolation, when the impressive debutant Ben Kelly was finally beaten, Edge made it 6-1, before Rotherham grabbed another to leave the final score 6-2.
Alderley Edge’s goals came from Miles McGoun (2) and Laurence Barnes from open play, a penalty stroke and penalty corner from Ben Badger and a James McPherson penalty corner strike.
Saturday 30th January
Alderley edge back into promotion the hunt.
Alderley Edge Men’s Hockey 1st team fought themselves back towards the summit of North League Divison One with a fine 4-2 victory over 2nd placed City of York.
Alderley coming into the game with only 1 point from their last five games and suffering postponements due to the weather, they comprehensively defeated the team currently lying in one of the promotion places.
Quick out of the blocks, Alderley dominated early exchanges and when Matt Hardy picked off a loose pass, he fed Sam Gregory who passed the ball on to his brother Ben, who finished first time.
Alderley then went 2–0 up when further pressure again caused a cheap turn over and Miles McGoun was given the chance to run at the last defender, he created space and fired in a shot that left the ‘keeper flat footed.
York tried to break the Alderley backline, but created little and Alderley could have extended their lead after drawing the ‘keeper out of his goal on more than one occasion but failing to find the finish, McGoun coming closest hitting the outside of the post.
The second half was harder fought with York upping their effort. Man of the match Joe Bryant was in fine form and made several important tackles. Danny Butterworth capped a fine game with a goal after bursting forward and firing home following neat work in the D from Gregory. At 3-0 the game was all but over, to York’s credit they kept going and were rewarded with a goal when a pass found the free player who was able to neatly finish.
As York became more frantic, Alderley did well in keeping their composure, not something they are noted for, and when York pushed forward, Alderley capitalised and with the keeper nowhere to be seen James McPherson slapped home to give Alderley breathing space.
There was time for a York consolation goal, but the points were Alderley’s after what was probably their most complete performance of the season and it puts Alderley just 3 points behind York, with a game in hand.
Saturday 23rd January 2010
Alderley Edge Ladies Hockey club 1st team travelled the short distance to Wilmslow on Saturday looking to the double on their neighbours in the Cheshire Ladies league Division 1 match. With Alderley beating Wilmslow earlier in the season but the result reversed, by the league committee, due to a form being completed incorrectly, Alderley were determined to do the double.
Alderley played with three forwards and from the start looked dominate as they created numerous opportunities, especially with Hannah Petho causing the Wilmslow defence many problems. Despite the dominance and numerous chances Alderley could not get the ball past the Wilmslow goalkeeper who had a terrific game.
Alderley did find the net from a set piece but only for it to be ruled out for an infringement, and at half time the match was goalless despite Alderley’s dominance.
The second half followed a similar pattern and eventually the pressure told when an excellent solo run by Hannah Petho opened up the Wilmslow defence finding Sioned Davies who in turn slotted the ball pass the advancing keeper.
As Alderley pressed for the deserved second Wilmslow had chances on the break but with player of the match Katie Marriott and Hatty Ravenscroft un-beatable Wilmslow’s chances were limited, despite a barrage of penalty corners towards the end.
Despite not scoring as many as they should Alderley will be pleased they have done the double twice, on the pitch, this season against their local rivals.
The 2nd team won their twelfth consecutive league game and have now scored 52 goals after a 4-0 win against Northrop Hall. Despite having six games left Alderley only need one more point to guarantee promotion.
Alderleys 3rd team travelled to Whitchurch and returned 6-1 victors to maintained their promotion challenge and the 4th team beat Warrington 2s 5-0. To cap of an excellent weekend for the club the young Ladies 5th had a tremendous 1-1 draw against Golborne.
This weekend sees Alderley’s U18 Girls playing in the last 16 of the England National Cup as they travel to Doncaster being the only representative left in Cheshire and the North West of England
Saturday 5th December
At the half way point of the season Alderley Edge Men's Hockey 1st team hold second place in the North Division One.
Alderley Edge slipped to a second consecutive defeat, going down 3-2 to Stockton.
Things looked bright as Alderley pressured early and it wasn't long until Ben Badger's long pass picked out Sam Gregory who linked up with McGoun to provide Ben Gregory with a simple finish.
Alderley had a stretched squad and players struggling for full fitness, but they should have made more of early possession and kept control of the game, however, a speculative long ball evaded everyone and ran through to the Stockton forward who finished well. Alderley were caught out again with another long ball that found the Stockton player unmarked although he was well held up initially the ball fell kindly for Stockton to take the lead.
Alderley started to get back in the game, but could not find the rhythm to break a determined Stockton backline. Then Stockton won a penalty corner that was illegally stopped resulting a stroke that was duly converted.
At half time Alderley moved players around and Alex Morgan impressed at full back allowing McPherson and Hanley more control of the midfield. Stockton maintained a high work rate and were committed throughout, Alderely did press hard and eventually were rewarded when McPherson scored with a powerful strike from a penalty corner. However as time began to run out two further corner strikes beat the keeper but missed the backboard and Alderley just could not find the equaliser
Saturday 28th November/ Sunday 29th November
Ladies Report
On Sunday Alderley Edge Ladies hockey club had tremendous success in the England Hockey National Cup at both Under 16 and U18 level. Both teams have reached the last 16 of the National cup and are the only Cheshire and North West teams left in both competitions. The Under 18’s hosted a strong Lytham St Anns team, who last year reached the finals at U15 level. and blew them away in the first 15 minutes with an amazing display of Hockey, scoring 3 goals and five by half time. The second half was goalless but resulting in a 5-0 victory. The Under 16 we equally impressive travelling to Hull and themselves were 3-0 up early on and also ran out comfortable winners with a 5-0 score line.
On Saturday 1st team hosted league leaders Wrexham on Saturday in the Women’s Cheshire League Division 1. The Alderley side knew they could match the leaders and despite the final 0-0 score line they were by far the better side on the day. The pattern of the game was constant throughout the game with Alderley having the possession and posing the greater threat but failing to convert their chances. However Wrexham always looked dangerous on the break and from the offset it was going to be a close game.Player of the match was Wrexham’s keeper who made excellent saves all game in particularly twice from close range in the second half. An excellent game of Hockey and a good advert for ladies Hockey in Cheshire .
The 2nd team made it ten out of ten with a 6-0 victory over Sale an to maintain their 100% record, averaging 4 goal per game. The Ladies 3’s maintained their promotion challenge, beating Alderley's 4th team ,despite the league deduction 6 points for a genuine misinterpretation of new administration rules.
The 5th team played Macclesfield 2s and were unfortunate to lose 3-1.
Saturday 20th November/Sunday 21st November
Alderley Edge Men's Hockey 1st team, lying 2nd in the North League Division One took on 3rd place Lytham St Annes on Saturday.
The game was open throughout with both teams attacking at pace. Alderley started brightly and Gregory went close. McPherson, Joe Gregory and Morgan were industrious in the midfield and the backline of Badger, Scarsbrook and Joe and Franky Bryant were a match for the speedy Lytham attack.
Alderley took the lead when McGoun held off the challenges and managed to make room to fire his shot across the 'keeper.
Lytham came back into the game and went close from a corner, which was well saved. This was Lytham's main source of scoring opportunities, and eventually another switched passing routine fell invitingly for the equaliser.
Both teams played quickly and looked to break at pace. This meant a fast flowing end to end game. Alderley went direct and Ben Gregory forced the 'keeper to have to smother when put through.
Alderley retook the lead when a penalty corner routine of their own was well worked and expertly finished by Badger.
Lytham continued to win corners and Riley had to save smartly, with the defence stoutly preventing rebound opportunities. However, an equaliser came from yet another corner when a well worked deflection found the target.
The rain fell and the pace lessened with both sides had to settle for a 2-2 draw and a point each, Alderley are 3 points off top spot and 4 clear of Lytham. Danny Butterworth picked up the Man of the Match award on his return to the squad.
On Sunday Alderley reached the last 16 of the national knock-out competition with a 3 - 1 victory away at Liverpool Sefton.
A youthful squad with seven changes settled well and played good passing hockey and dominated possession. Morgan tasting life as a defender for the first time impressed along with newcomers, Baker-Brian and Sym.
Although Riley was called into action, Alderley looked the most likely to score and Sam Gregory's fantastically timed run was picked out by McPherson for the opener. Adam Wildig doubled the lead when in a packed goal mouth he managed to force the ball in.
Oli Jones and Ben Gregory were full of endeavour and kept the Sefton backline busy. Allowing space for the like of Hardy and Hall on the right to create attacking opportunities.
In the opening exchanges of the second half Sefton put together their best passages of play attacking in numbers and at pace they created several shooting opportunities and corners, but they were thwarted, Alderley still looked dangerous on the break, but their passing was a little ragged and too many ariel passes were attempted. Sefton did manage to pull one back when the forward fought his way past a challenge, saw his close range shot saved but was on hand to score off the rebound.
As Sefton tired Alderley retook the intiative and McGoun was on hand to convert at the back post following good build up play to give Alderley the victory.
On the whole a very satisfying weekend for the Men's 1st team. The 2's, 3's and 4's unfortunately all suffered defeat.
Ladies Report
Alderley Edge Ladies Hockey club face their greatest challenge for many years when last week the Cheshire League decided to fine Alderley 1st team 6 points due to a typing error on an administration form issued in September. Rather than being in 3rd place in Division 1 Alderley Edge 1st team now find themselves 3rd from bottom, and promotion dreams shattered.
It would be easy now for the 1st team to give up and morale is extremely low, but on Saturday they hosted Marple and despite the driving rain put on a display of hockey that the visitors had no answers. Within 10 minutes Alderley had scored twice from Gemma Garton and Judith Offer and with every attack Alderley had opportunities to score. It wasn't long until the Gemma Garton scored again to take a 3-0 lead at half time.
The game was over as a contest and despite a shock Marple goal just after the break Alderley dominated the whole of the second half and with Marple going down to 10 players the match just became an attack versus defence contest with all the players camped in the Marple area. The wintry weather probably won the afternoon and Alderley only managed 2 more goals to complete a 5-1 victory, but it was a sad day for Alderley as they now realise any success on the pitch is deemed to be not as important as filing in a form correctly.
The 2nd team won their ninth consecutive game to keep their championship hope alive by beating neighbours Bollington 3-1 in an untidy game. The 3rd team lost their first points with a top of the table clash against Oswestry losing 3-1. The 4th team continues their successful season with a 10-0 demolition of Oxton.
Alderley 1st play hosts to Division 1 leaders Wrexham on Saturday, 3.00pm @ Wilmslow High School determined to prove a point.
Saturday 14th November
Alderley Edge men's 1s left Leeds with all 3 points following a determined performance.
Leeds were well organised and played a very structured game. Alderley were off the pace from the outset and keeper James Riley was in the action early. Resolute defending from Bryant and Badger helped stem the flow. Alderley's passing game was not to it's usual standard and Leeds dominated most facets including penalty corners won, but due to good defending and goalkeeping could not find the net. Alderley could have snatched the lead when Miles McGoun rounded the keeper but his pass to Ben Gregory in front of an open goal was well intercepted.
In the second half Joe Gregory and Alex Morgan became involved and a Morgan pass released McGoun who ghosted past the keeper only to be felled and a penalty stroke was awarded. James McPherson took the responsibility and put Alderley in front.
Leeds kept pressing to no avail and Alderley were battling hard, despite suffering injuries.
Hardy was played in down the right and he cleverly won a penalty corner a tidy routine allowed Sam Gregory to score. Alderley took the sting out of the game until Scarsbrook was sin binned with 10 minutes remaining, forcing further reorganisation and this prompted Leeds to substitute their keeper for an out fielder making it 11 v 9 in open play. Alderley hung on until the last minute when Leeds managed to score a disputed consolation.
Alderley happily took the points with a 2-1 win.
Next week Alderley face Lytham who lie third just behind them.
Ladies Report
Alderley Edge Ladies hockey club 1st team travelled to Whitchurch on Saturday knowing that 3 points would bring them level on points with their opponents and secure 4th place in the Cheshire Women’s league Division 1. As what is becoming tradition this season Alderley started well and wasted early chances and then conceded a soft goal after giving the ball away in midfield. Matters got worst when Whitchuch scored their second shortly afterwards after the Alderley defence again lost concentration.
The only good news was Alderley had sufficient time to come back and slowly, with 10 minutes of the first half left, the young side started to look a threat and just before the break, player of the match, Judith Offer fired in a goal. This was just the tonic Alderley needed and with a few changes to the formation at half time Alderley came out full of confidence.
For 15 minutes Alderley produced fast free flowing hockey and the home side didn’t have an answer as Clare Davidson scored from a penalty corner to equalise and before Whitchurch could regroup Alice Galloway converted her first league goal form a narrow angle to take Alderley into a 3-2 lead.
Whitchurch responded well but Alderleys defence had learnt from the first half mistakes and cancelled out the entire home teams attacks and it was in fact Alderley on the break that scored the decisive goal through Judith Offer.
Victory takes Alderley to fourth spot and with Key players set to return a top three place, or more, is a realistic target. This weekend they host Marple at Wilmslow High school, Saturday 3.00pm,
The 2nd team continued their 100% win over Wilmslow to maintain their domination of their league and the 3rd team repeated the 4-0 win against Knutsford to keep their realistic promotion hopes alive. The 4th team had a rare defeat to league leaders Oswestry whilst the newly formed 5th team gained their first 3 points of the season following the fixture against Wilmslow 5ths.
Sunday was the England National Cup for the Ladies under 18 and Under 16 teams.
The Girls U18s shocked Ben Rhydding whom they beat 7-0, and the Girls U16s also won 2-1 against City of York. Two fabulous victories outlining the tremendous youth section the club has and the club eagerley await two other top clubs in the next round.
Saturday 7th November
Alderley Edge Men's 1st team kept up their fine form in North League One, with a 3-1 victory over Bolton.
Bolton started brightly but caused no real problems to the Alderley back line and soon Alderley were able to get into their passing rhythm and started to cause the opposition serious issues, Miles McGoun going closest to scoring shooting narrowly wide after making himself some space and later hitting the post.
Alderley's dominance was being transferred into penalty corners rather than clear goal scoring opportunities with Bolton defending resolutely, Matt Hardy being a main contributor. It was a corner that gave Alderley the lead when the ball found it's way to Alex Morgan to fire home.
Good passing meant Alderley kept firmly in control and Gregory was thwarted when the 'keeper raced from his line. With the majority possession and due to fine defending from Scarsbrook, Bryant and Badger Bolton were unable to get into the Alderley D, it was a closer reflection of the first half when James McPherson kept up his fine run of goal scoring form firing in a penalty corner to make it 2-0.
The second half started the same as the first with even better movement from the Alderley front line, but to Bolton's credit they kept a very high work rate and refused to be overwhelmed. Alderley then became a little sloppy and turned the ball over too easily encouraging Bolton to come forward.
Bolton eventually won their only corner of the game and soon followed it up with a genuine attack in numbers and as the defence backed off, they took advantage with a crisp strike to pull a goal back. This lead to a frantic period of play with neither side maintaining possession or structure.
Alderley had two strong penalty stroke appeals turned down when McPherson's goal bound shot appeared to strike a defender on the line and then an errant stick prevented a shooting opportunity.
The game was made safe when Gregory and McGoun combined to go past the keeper, and to prevent a certain goal he deliberately brought down the Alderley striker, giving the Umpire no choice but to award a penalty stroke. Man of the match Ben Badger confidently converted. Alderley regained composure and could have had more goals if not for the resilient Bolton backline.
This keeps Alderley just 1 point off top spot and with other top teams dropping points it was a good weekend for the Moss Lane outfit.
Saturday 31st October
Alderley Edge men's hockey first team faced the difficult trip to high flying City of York, in the North League division one.
York were quick out of the blocks and the movement of their forwards caused early danger and Alderley's keeper James Riley was called into early action, the former York man proved in good form throughout. With Scarsbrook, Badger and the Bryant brothers getting to grips with the task in hand Alderley weathered the early storm.
The match was end to end with City of York edging possession and territory. Hanley, McPherson and Gregory were able to steady the midfield and start creating opportunities. When Joe and Sam Gregory combined on the right Miles McGoun was on hand to fire Alderley in front and it remained that way until half time.
In the second half City of York again started well and in the first couple of minutes Alderley were unable to clear a crowded D and the ball fell to a York player who hit a reverse stick shot high into the net.
With the very next attack York were awarded a penalty stroke. Riley produced a fine diving stick save, to keep the scores level.
The game switched from end to end, Alderley retook the lead when quick play from Wildig and Hardy lead to McGoun turning his man and beating the keeper.
The teams exchanged attacks and both squandered penalty corners. It was York who scored next getting a routine right with back post deflection evading Scarsbrook on the line.
Then Alderley went close with a corner and the same routine saw McGoun flicking home to complete his hat-trick.
York equalised for a third time when a poor clearance allowed a forward a clean run at goal he passed to an unmarked player who rolled the ball home.
Alderley kept on going and both teams pressed for a winner, Alderley won another penalty corner and James McPherson fired a straight strike under the keeper's dive to give all 3 points to Alderley as they managed to play out the last five minutes.
Ladies Report
Alderley Edge Ladies Hockey club hosted Sale on Saturday in a crucial game, as both teams have hopes of winning league division 1 of the Cheshire Womens League. Alderleys day didn't start so well when last minute injuries meant a late reshuffle of the team.
However it was Alderley who started the game the brightest and quickly got into their stride of the playing fast one touch hockey. Sales only reply being to break the play down resulting in a string of cards from the umpires and penalty corners for Alderley and from one of the corners Alderley took a well deserved lead through Gemma Garton.
Alderley continued to create chances but wasted opportunities in front of goal to extend their lead. As it was Halloween these missed chances came back to haunt them later in the match.
As the first half progressed Sale started to make their presence felt and Alderleys captain and goalkeeper Lyndsay Lomax made some excellent saves. Just before half time a lack of concentration from the Alderley defence allowed Sale to score a soft equaliser.
The second half turned into a scrappy affair as both teams were aware of the importance of the next goal. As Alderley push forward the ball was lost in attack and a quick but effective break away resulted in a goal and a 2-1 lead for Sale. This deflated the home side and despite much effort and determination Alderley could not respond and in fact it was Sale who scored two late goals, one a penalty stroke, to run out 4-1 winners.
Despite the result the young Alderley side gain much from the defeat learning that sometimes you need more then good technical skills to grind out a result.
The Ladies 2nd team beat South Cheshire 2-0 to make it six consecutive league victories and to stay top of their league.
Saturday 24th October
Alderley Edge men's first team put in arguably their best performance of the year, but ended up on the wrong end of a 3-2 scoreline. Leeds University, unbeaten this season proved strong opposition. The game was played at a good pace with both sides playing attractive hockey. Barnes putting the Leeds Uni back line under pressure and supported by Gregory and McGoun, Alderley had a goal threat.
It was Leeds Uni who had the first real opportunity following a penalty corner, James Riley was forced to make a fine triple save to keep the scores level. Leeds Uni took the lead when a shot was deflected and fell kindly to the forward who made no mistake. They extended the lead when the forward span quickly and found space to score from a tight angle.
The game continued to be competitive and James McPherson fired home a first time finish on his reverse side from Bryant's cut back to put Alderley back in the game at 2-1.
In the second half Leeds Uni were down to ten men for a brief spell and Alderley took advantage playing expansive hockey and it resulted in McGoun finishing a neat move with a fine diving finish.
Alderley started finding space and putting pressure on the students, but to no avail, failing to make clear cut chances. Leeds Uni playing quickly on the counter attack had a glorious opportunity but Riley pulled off a tremendous reflex diving save from a close range volley.
Unfortunately Alderley's fortune ran out when following pressure in the D, the ball arrived at the stick of the forward who calmly finished for his hat-trick.
Alderley mounted a final onslaught and Hardy and McPherson won corners that were not converted. Then as time expired Alderley won a further corner, the initial effort was illegally saved, giving Alderley another chance. The same routine saw Hardy deflect in McPherson's strike, only for the Umpire to see an offence off the ball and disallow it, unfortunately his colleague missed an offence which would have given Alderley another chance. A draw would have been a fair reflection of the game. Both sides would be pleased with their performances, Alderley disappointed not to have at least a share of the spoils. Next week Alderley travel to York in the league and Wolverhampton in the cup.
Saturday 17th October
Alderley Edge men's hockey first team maintain their perfect start in North Division One with a hard fought 3 - 2 victory away at Sheffield Bankers.
Alderley thought they had the perfect start when in the second minute they won a penalty corner, which was saved but Barnes fired the rebound goal bound only for it to strike a defender on the line and a penalty stroke was awarded, however under protest the Umpire changed his mind twice, giving the ball to Sheffield before deciding on a penalty corner.
Good midfield play and good movement upfront meant Alderley were able to mount a concerted amount of pressure and this told when a ball into the D was poorly cleared by the keeper allowing Barnes to roll the ball home.
McPherson was holding the middle of the park and the runs of Gregory and Hardy kept Sheffield on the back foot, with Alderley winning several penalty corners and Sam Gregory neatly deflected home the set piece.
Sheffield's opportunities were few and mainly on the break. Defensively Alderley looked solid with Scarsbrook and Badger in control.
The 2 - 0 lead was a fair reflection of the first half, in the second half Sheffield threw caution to the wind committing players forward and this was rewarded with several crosses and half chances and penalty corners. It was a deflected corner that hit Joe Bryant on the line which gave Sheffield a penalty stroke. Riley managed to get a stick to the penalty but agonisingly the ball fell just over the line.
The game became a little frantic and Alderley did not keep possession well and Bryant needed to make some telling tackles. Sheffield equalised when Badger was made to play on for a supposed advantage after winning a foul despite having no where to go and three players tackling him. Sheffield won possession and were awarded a corner. The initial shot was saved but the rebound was put away.
Sheffield kept attacking and Alderley were creating opportunities with the Sheffield keeper forced onto several telling blocks and a good save from a Scarsbrook shot at a corner.
The match always looked like there was still another goal in it and Sheffield piled forward, only for McPherson to win a tackle on the half way line and set Barnes free, his chipped cross over the sliding keeper allowed Ben Gregory the opportunity to volley home the winning goal with just two minutes remaining.
A well fought victory for Alderley who are the only team to have won all of their games. Next week they will face their toughest challenge playing host to second placed Leeds University.
Ladies Report
Alderley Edge Ladies hockey enjoyed another successful weekend with the top four sides all winning to keep the hope of promotion for all sides alive.
The ladies 1st team, captianed by Lyndsay Lomax, hosted Chester and enjoyed a 7-0 victory following some excellent free flowing hockey. In a game where Alderley were expecting to win it was the early goal that was all important and Gemma Garton delivered an early strike after only 5 minutes. This settled the young Alderley side and despite scoring so early the final result was inevitable.
As Alderley put the pressure on the Chester defence the hosts conceded a string of penalty corners which Amanda Bennison and Hannah Pethro both scored of successive corners. After half time Alderley played some of their best hockey of the season as player of the match Sally Gale controlled the midfield and following the move of the game she had a simple tap in to increase the score line. After this it was the Gemma Garton show who dispatched three further goals to increase her tally to 4 but give Alderley a deserved 7-0 victory keeping them in contention for their third successive league title.Special mention to two of the youngest players , Charlotte Baily and Alice Galloway who both had thier best performances of the season.
The Ladies 2s maintained their 100% record with a 2-0 win at Neston to top their league, whist the 3s were awarded an 3-0 win against Oxton as the game was cancelled. The 4s had an excellent 1-0 win playing Knutsford 2s and the 5s, despite conceding 3 early goals had a much improved performance against Chester 4s.
All the teams have a weeks rest now ,but an excellent start to all the newly promoted teams of Alderley in the Cheshire Women's League
Saturday 10th October
Alderley Edge Men's Hockey first team extended their lead at the top of the North First Division with an easy 4-0 victory over Manchester. Alderley got off to the perfect start, from the centre a fine passing move resulted in a penalty corner which Laurence Barnes duly dispatched.
This ended the game as a contest as Manchester spent the rest of the game with nine men in and around their own D and were happy to hit the ball off the pitch. Undeterred Alderley continued their passing game and were rewarded when Frankie Bryant played one two passes up the right and cut inside to fire home a fantastic reverse stick strike which rocketed into the far corner. James McPherson also added to the score sheet with a strong reverse stick finish. Manchester became more and more frustrated and abrasive and took this out on the Umpires and each other.
The second half was the same as the first with Manchester making no effort to get back into the game. This was highlighted by their forwards obsession to draw a foul rather than go for goal and getting no joy from Badger and Scarsbrook.
With Manchester becoming more fractious Alderley decided that not getting involved was the best policy and simply passed the ball around keeping possession for virtually the whole half. Barnes converted another corner to finish off the scoring. Alderley will probably never have an easier afternoon, the Umpires probably never a more difficult one. The win puts Alderley two points clear at the top and next week travel to Sheffield Bankers.
Ladies Report
Alderley Edge Ladies Hockey club travelled to Bowden on Saturday knowing that the opposition would be one of the best in Division 1 of the Cheshire Ladies League and Bowden's bumpy pitch a real advantage to the home side. Despite playing the best hockey so far this season they suffered a 3-1 defeat.
Alderley started the game the better of the two sides and settled into a good pattern of fast flowing hockey. However it was Bowden who took the lead from a reverse hit shot which fortunately found the corner of the goal. Alderley didn't panic and created good opportunities and twice should of found the net with relatively easy opportunities. Eventually just before half time an excellent link up between Sally Gale and Amanda Bennison found Judith Offer in the area to slot the ball home with an accurate first time effort.
After the interval Alderley were slow to start and following some early Bowden pressure conceded a soft goal which seem to knock the confidence of the young Alderley Side. The game then became a midfield scarp with Bowden having the most of the possession. Katie Marriot and Hatty Ravenscroft were solid in defence letting little pass but Alderley in turn did not create many chances to find the equaliser. Ultimately a they went in search for that illusive goal Bowden scored the decisive third to take maximum points. Alderley Edge 1st host Chester this Saturday, 3.00pm start at Wilmslow High School.
The 2nd Team travelled to Lymm for a top of the table clash and returned home 1-0 winners maintaining their one hundred percent record. The 3rd team also top their league with a 11-0 thrashing of Wilmslow 4th, whilst Alderleys 4th team had another comprehensive 7-0. The 5th team were defeated in their second ever league game but the young side are showing signs of improvement.
Saturday 3rd October
Alderley Edge mens first team went top of North Hockey league with an impressive 7-1 away victory at Rotherham. Alderley dominated throughout despite never really getting to grips with the uneven playing surface.
Alderley took the lead when Miles McGoun held off would be tacklers before firing home on the reverse. Ben Gregory doubled the lead with a fine deflected finish at full pace from a lightening fast break up the right hand side.
The chances continued to be created and the Rotherham keeper crashed through Gibson and was lucky to stay on the pitch with the Umpire not seeing the incident. A corner resulted in McGoun adding a third before half time. In the second half the keeper then thwarted Man of the Match James McPherson who also crashed a shot into the post.
Alderley then began to take advantage of overwhelming amount of possession and Sam Gregory got on the score sheet and was taken out in the D to win a penalty stroke which Ben Badger converted. In between a rare Rotherham attack resulted in a free player deflecting home a good pass. Normal service resumed when Neil Hanley fired into the top corner from a short corner rebound and the gloss was put on the performance when McPherson beat the keeper with a powerful reverse stick finish. On another day Alderley could well have had double figures and tougher challenges will be faced, however Alderley are still able to look down on the rest of the league.
Ladies Report
Alderley Edge Ladies Hockey Club 1st team were hosts to local neighbours Wilmslow at the weekend, in Division 1 of the Cheshire Womens league, and thanks to two magic moments got all 3 points following a 2-1 victory. It was Wilmslow that played the much better hockey in the open minutes and had much of the possession as Alderley were guilty of giving the ball away. Alderley dug deep and defended well and limited Wilmslow to half chances and as the first half progress Alderley found their game and eventually gained a penalty corner from which Sally Gale struck a beautiful strike from 16 metres out. The goal shocked Wilmslow yet inspired Alderley who missed a couple of chances to extend their lead before half time.
Immediately after the break it was Wilmslow who again had more of the possession and following a penalty corner Alderley conceded a soft equaliser. At this point it would of been understandable if Alderley conceded again as they were not playing any where near their true potential. The pattern of the game stayed the same with Wilmslow having more of the possession but not really creating any clear cut chances. As legs tired it was going to be a mistake or a touch of magic to change the game. With 10 minutes left Judith Offer beat three Wilmslow players and fired in an unstoppable shot. That was enough for Alderley and they saw the last few minutes out defending their lead to seal the victory.
Alderley Edge made history on Saturday by fielding 5 ladies teams in the Cheshire leagues which makes them one of the largest ladies club in Cheshire. The 2nd team kept up their quest for a 3rd successive promotion after a 2-1 win against Northop Hall whilst the 3rd and 4ths had comprehensive victories, 7-1 and 9-0 respectively. The newly formed 5th team lost 3-1 but there was signs that the young team should finish in a respectable position in their league.
September 19th - Cheshire Div. 1 Macclesfield Ladies 2 AEHC Ladies 1
Following two back to back promotions and winners of the Cheshire Women's League tournament last week Alderley Edge hockey club Ladies visited Macclesfield on Saturday to open their campaign in the Cheshire Division 1 league. What Alderley did not plan for was their first league defeat in 18 months as they disappointedly lost 2-1 in a game they should not of come away empty handed.
Alderley started extremely nervously and it was Macclesfield who had the early pressure as the young Alderley players were unable to keep possession of the ball. As the first half progressed Alderley slowly started to string together some passes and were awarded several shots corners which they were unable to convert to goals. On the stroke of half time Macclesfield themselves were awarded a penalty corner and with the last hit of the half, after Alderley failed to clear, the home side took the lead.
The second half was a different story with Alderley dominating proceedings as they picked up the pace of the game and with Sophie Fox and Katie Marriot relishing their new defence roles there was only going to be one side going to score.Eventaully after much pressure Alderley equalised from Vicki Newton scoring from a narrow angle and after this it looked like only one team was going to win.
Despite constant attacks on their opponents goal Alderley failed to score and even though many more penalty corners were awarded the second goal failed to materialise. As Alderley committed more players in search of the winner the classic breakaway goal was conceded and Alderley had to experience that rare feeling of defeat.
Despite the obvious step up in level Alderley know that they can improve on this performance and with Oxton visiting this weekend, 3.00pm start at Wilmslow High School, the team must get back to their winning ways.
The Ladies second team also kicked off their league season with a convincing 7-0 win over Bowden and like the first team are looking for that 3rd consecutive promotion. This weekend the club sees all 5 ladies teams playing league hockey with high expectations for all the teams.
September 12th
Alderley Edge Ladies Hockey Club had an fabulous start to the new hockey season on Saturday by winning the Cheshire Women's Hockey League Tournament. Despite the strong opposition and hot weather Alderley Edge Ladies played 5 tough games in a round robin tournament winning 4 of the 5 matches.
Following back to back promotions the last two seasons Alderley Edge have found themselves in Division 1 of the Cheshire Women's Hockey and Saturday was the opportunity to see if the squad could compete with Division 1 teams.
The squad did not disappoint and after the initial 2-1 victory against top welsh club Wrexham there was a realisation that the team could compete at this level.
As the day progressed the pre-preseason training program was paying off as Alderley fitness and team play was too much for the oppostion, except for a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Lymm, despite numerous goal scoring opportunities.
With victories in the final 3 games, with no goals conceded, against Oxton, Marple and Poynton/Brooklands Alderley successfully were crowned tournaments winners.
An excellent start to the season and with Alderley fielding five ladies teams this season in the Cheshire leagues the club is looking for many successes as the league matches begin this week, including a local derby clash of Macclesfield 1st v Alderley 1st at Tytherington High School, 2pm push back.
Alderley Edge Cricket Club offers outstanding facilities for competitive or social sport in tennis, cricket, hockey and squash, supplemented by a vibrant social scene. It welcomes new members - please visit www.aecc.org.uk or telephone the General Manager, John Berry, on 01625 584733.
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