Monday 12th March 2007
See "Tonbridge invited to play in Varsity Match" for more information about the Varsity match.
A boy's perspective
It was certainly a day of apparent reckoning. Bishop's Stortford, after some inside knowledge was received, were said to be a strong side with several very skilful players. It is not easy to play a weekday fixture but we arrived at the game with much anticipation of what could be an incredibly exciting match.
After a thorough warm up, our devoted support arrived in numbers to cheer throughout the game whatever the circumstances. For many of us it was the first time that we were to play on such a grand stage. Whether we were overwhelmed by the occasion or never really got our heads in the game, it was a disappointing start and despite the heavily awaited eagerness of what this Tonbridge side could produce, we found ourselves trailing by two goals within the first five minutes. Eventually the much awaited whistle sounded for the end of the half. Trudging towards the goal it was apparent that the belief needed to come back from 3-0 down was probably beyond us. However, as it is for all Tonbridgians, it was not only the result but pride that was important. The second half began and there was a real sense of purpose in our play, scoring a very early goal, spirits were high and we began to compete. Unfortunately our efforts were in vein as the second half finished 2-2. To finish the game losing 5-2, was a real dampener to our highly successful season. If anything it just proved that we needed to play more games like this where we are up against unknown opposition on a big stage - days like this one and The Frank Mason tournament are truly character building. Maybe future Tonbridgians will experience this more with additional cup and tournament hockey!
We were fortunate enough to be able to watch the Varsity Match in which we saw Cambridge triumph. The game featured two Old Tonbridgians, David Jones, a former Park House boy, playing for Cambridge and Will Bryant (ex Hillside) who captained the Oxford side. It was a very skilful and entertaining game with plenty of goals (4-3 at the final whistle) and some slick short corner routines form both sides. This did raise our spirits somewhat! It cannot go without saying that the day provided further experience for all the players and many new friends were made as we found ourselves enjoying the spectacular March weather and in a chanting competition with our new friend -GOOSE!
Jamie Flint