HOCKEY: A FINE margin one-goal victory helped Warwick earn their second pre-season win over Bromsgrove.
Following a dominant 5-2 win against Coalville two weeks ago, Warwick 4ths fielded a similar side despite Mike Edwards taking his place in goal.
Bromsgrove dictated play early on, but Warwick scored with one of their first attacking moves of the game when Russell East and Freddie Herd set-up Stewart Seymour, whose rebounded strike was hit home by Luca Cardellino.
Warwick took control of the game moments later when Ben Richards found Cardellino down the left, whose pass found Freddie Herd on the edge of the D to double Warwick’s advantage.
Toby Arnold had the leave the field after picking up a knee injury, and Arnold’s absense signalled a change in the game’s tide.
Two failed clearances led to Bromsgrove pulling a goal back before Warwick responded through Herd to reinstate their two-goal lead at half time.
A pair of clear cut chances at the start of the second half weren’t converted as Warwick struggled to extend their already healthy lead.
Bromsgrove added a second goal following two failed attempts to clear the ball.
Though Bromsgrove sensed a chance to win the game, Warwick held their nerve to win 3-2.
The 3rds are next in action on the road against Stratford.
Ladies 1st
WARWICK Ladies made the perfect start to their Midland League campaign, defeating Shrewsbury 2nds 7-0.
The side’s pre-season preparations paid off as they quickly gained control of the match and continued to dominate throughout.
Warwick’s defence and midfield linked well together to create opportunities to find forwards Kirstin Bryce and Ally Keays who worked tirelessly upfront.
Helen Barron, Kate Linford and Lucy McEvoy joined their goal-hungry team mates to put yet more pressure on the Shrewsbury defence.
Man of the match Lizzy Pocknell was a crucial part of Warwick’s success, finding the back of the goal twice, as did McEvoy and Bryce – and Helen ‘Mo’ Barron’s crisp finish made it a sensational seven goals for the home side.
Warwick will be hoping to contine their strong form against Stratford Ladies 1s next week.
