Tavistock men took to the astro at Mount Kelly looking to bounce back from a tough opening day defeat the previous weekend.
They started the first half with real intent and looked the more likely to score. That would dually happen partway through the half as they took full advantage of 2 beautiful short corner routines. The first came with Jake slipping it left to his brother Josh to finish nicely low to the keeper’s right side. Then the second involved all 3 Walker boys! Once again Jake slipped it left to Josh then he played a lovely diagonal pass to Dominic who was stood around the P spot to slot it home. Tavi continued where they left off and a third came towards the end of the half. Martin came close to making it a Walker trio on the scoresheet playing a cool shot on target between the keeper’s legs which deflected and ended up hitting a defender’s foot. It would have likely been given a P flick but Josh was on hand to smack the ball into an open goal before a whistle was blown to get his 2nd. Tavi played keep ball and possession hockey to see out the remainder of the half.
Half time, 3-0 Tavistock and fully deserved.
As expected, Devonport came out the blocks in the 2nd half and tiredness began to kick in for the home side with no subs. To their credit, for the first part they defended resolutely and frustrated the opposition who missed a few big opportunities themselves and picked up a few ? cards. However, halfway through the 2nd half, the nerves really started to kick in as Devonport got 2 goals back in quick succession to bring the score to 3-2. It really became squeaky bum time as they continued to fire up the pressure with a short flurry of short corners whilst Tavi were a man down. The home side managed to hold off and eventually got the ball upfield and back to 11 on the pitch. Ultimately the nerves were relieved with about 5 minutes left on the clock. Devonport were bringing many players forward which left space open on the counter. Tavi came away with the ball and took it forward with pace. James ended up with the ball inside the D on the right side and played a precise square ball across to the far post. There waiting was Toby there to tap it home and seal the points. Could clearly see the relief across the team when that went in.
Full time, 4-2 to Tavi. A great team performance with just the bare 11 players. Credit to Devonport Services for their efforts and giving the hosts a good game.
A special mention goes to Oscar who had a great game at the back. That’s having earlier in the day played a rugby match for the Mount Kelly first team.