Croydon triumph in Oxford University Tournament

Croydon took a mixed ability team on the long journey up to Oxford University's famous Iffley Sports Ground, with players from all 4 of Croydon's teams and also a junior player, Dan Pratt. The tournament maximised playing time by only allowing 8 entrants which included a few university teams Supernova and local side Abingdon.

The first match saw them pitted against an Oxford old boys team and Croydon excelled in shutting them out of the 24 minute match whilst also scoring 11 goals, this despite 2 penalty misses from Andy Withers! The goals were spread around the team with Nick Collier (returning to his best form), Janine Collier, Withers and Sarah George scoring the bulk.

Some complacency clearly set in as the next match was far closer with Croydon battling a determined Oxford City side to win 6-5, a crucial free pass from Nigel Hudspith giving Croydon the winning goal. From then on the matches were very comfortable affairs and having seen off a strong Supernova side at the semi-final stage by 12-6, the final was between Abingdon and Croydon.

Croydon started well with an early goal for Nick Collier but Abingdon were back in the match, converting a penalty conceded by Pratt. Goals from Withers and George saw Croydon stretch their lead but Abingdon's James Magowan scored to leave the sides at 5-2 at half time and really anyone's game.

The 2nd half was Croydon's though with some tight pressure defence and some crucial goals from junior Dan Pratt. There were also some well taken running in shots by Hudspith and some well crafted middle distance shots from Janine Collier. New-comer Helen also tried to get onto the scoresheet but had to content herself with some resolute defending instead. Croydon ran away with it in the end, winning 10-3. The winning prize of beer and sweets was a welcome bonus for the team's hard work.

Croydon players: Nick Collier, Janine Collier, Helen Mansfield, Dan Pratt, Nigel Hudspith, Sarah George, Andy Withers.
Thanks to Oxford Uni for providing the 8th girl in the form of Victoria and Ali!


Report by: Andy


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