KSR XI vs OR XI Hockey 17th March 2023 

 The weather was on our side again for the second fixture between the mixed King’s and Old Roffensians hockey teams. A large handful of last year's leavers turned up to participate in their first battle to take on the school, although the choice of footwear for some of them was not wise on the outstanding pitch 1 at Holcombe Park.

Some familiar faces from the ORs had returned to take home the trophy again. Both teams started play strong, with some well placed passes and speed of attack, making ‘D’ entries high and chances on goal plentiful. This was rewarded with a goal from King’s, who were in high spirits and determined, especially after the beating they received last year from the ORs.

The technical finesse from the ORs was a joy to watch and a well earned goal came from them to equalise. With a large bench, the ORs continued to apply pressure and earned themselves a number of penalty corners in succession, which gained them another goal. At this point in the game, the two umpires comprising of a rugby player and an injured OR, struggled to keep up with play, battling decision concerns from both teams. The ORs went into half-time with the lead and a change of goal-keeper for both teams took place.

With such a close game, adrenaline high and the crowd in great spirit, the second half got off to a cracking start. King’s scored two early goals and couldn’t believe that they were in the lead against such a force. However, the teeth gritting, back-aching and grey haired OR team didn't take long to show off their skills again and scored a wonderful goal making the score 3-3. At this point in the game both teams where tired and ready for refreshments and a chat.

However, in the last play of the game King’s won the ball on the half-way line and sent an individual hero dribbling through the entire pitch and scoring a goal to take the game. What another cracking evening had by all and many thanks to the ORs who played and supported.