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Second Team

Bec 2 v Nomads 2

This week welcomed Jackie Hoare and Stuart Ironmonger back into the squad and Bec 2 travelled to a wet and miserable Epsom determined to find their form. Bec 2 took an early lead with both a long shot from Ruth, and a fouled runner, rightly called to the penalty spot which Stu converted. This gave the team confidence and Bec 2 went on to dominate much of the first half with creative and stong attacking leading to goals from Ian and a further two from Stu proving his comeback from injury early in the season. In defense, both divisions were superb and Nomads struggled to take even a single shot from many of their attacks! Although the stronger team, half time saw Bec 2 leading by only 2 goals (4-6).

The second half was a much closer and more tense affair with both teams trading goals, Jackie and Anna found their mark early on, Stu scored a further 2 and Ian managed to somehow score after receiving a cleverly timed pass from Mike after falling over at the base of the basket! It wasn't enough though, as a renewed Nomads managed to pull ahead by two goals. Bec 2, however, refused to be defeated in the final minutes again and last gasp goals from Ian and Jackie saw them pull level. Last minute substitutions of Emma and Ingmar failed to snatch victory from Nomads and the game ended a draw (14-14).

Report by Emma O'Connor

Bec 2 rediscover the joy of korfball

Bec 2 had a different challenge. They have not been playing as well as they can, and it has been frustrating for players and coaches alike. Against a fairly weak Croydon 2 the challenge was to rediscover the joy of korfball by expressing themselves and playing as a team.

They did this - and how! The first half was completely controlled by Bec with some lovely attacking play and tight defence all around the pitch. Half-time was 8-1. The 2nd half saw the team keep up the quality of play in attack - though a few silly goals were given around the post. The final score probably flattered Croydon, but the main thing is that the team looks like it has got it mojo back - and everyone came off the pitch with smiling faces. MVP: George who did great work around the post, scored some really good goals, linked up well with other players and looked very comfortable in his first proper 2nd team match". - Donald Final score 19-7 to Bec

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The Joy of Korf

After the disappointment of drawing with Mitcham 2 two weeks prior Bec 2 were finally back at their home venue of St Marys to take on Croydon 2 eager to put right the previous performance. Pre match talk focused around rediscovering the joy of korfball, through expressing ourselves both vocally and athletically on the pitch.

The first half typified the new found enthusiasm with each goal, intercept and even mistake being greeted with encouragement and celebration. Assisted by the division of Mike and Emma, Michele and Ian started the ball rolling with two quick running in shots to take Bec into a 2 – 0 lead. The new division of Ingmar, George, Anna and Mel initially struggled to gel, but in other games where heads would have dropped the division held strong and eventually saw a well worked long shot from Anna fly in. Goals continued to drop in the half, with George fresh from his exploits in the Netherlands showing just how to sink his drop off shots (4 in total!). Further goals from Ian, Ingmar and Michele and a solitary long shot from Scotland International Dan Pratt meant the score going into the break was 8 – 1.

The second half was all about maintaining the momentum and putting into practice some of the chosen words from pre-season and show no mercy. Although Croydon scored the first goal after half time, this did not deter Bec. The game had become slightly more open with both sides making head way into the scoring, excellent post work from Mike and George created confidence throughout the side to go out and take their shots, this lead to more goals from Ingmar and Ian. Perhaps the most significant goal of the second half came from a free pass, a goal that left much appreciation from the Croydon camp as “Danny’s Free Pass” was successfully deployed by Emma. Shortly after followed the introduction of the second team captain Ruth, who had been chomping at the bit, eager to get in on the goal action, she did not disappoint in a relentless 6 minute spell of attacking, which saw her score 3 goals, which included a last second halfway line shot to bring the final score to 20 -8.

Bec 2 had rediscovered the Joy of Korf and left St Mary's hungry for more... shame its two weeks away!

Bec 2 v Bec 3

Bec 2 and Bec 3 arrived at the new training venue of Charter school to face the first game of the season, though this time not against another club, but against each other. With neither team looking each other in the eye but with both teams eager to see their preceeding training pay off, a mix of excitement and intensity filled the North Dulwich hall.

The game started with a display of nervous energy from both teams, with neither side gaining control of the game. Emphasis from new 2nd team coach Danny miles on divisional organisation helped the attack of Ian, Ruth, Anna and Mikey Walsh focus on game strategy and the score board undusted with a long shot from Ian Buckle. Another cheeky under the post shot from Ian and 2 goals from Vicky Bland took the score to 4-0 to Bec-2 ahead.

Bec 3 retaliated with a long shot from Johnny Lazar that sunk like a hobnob in hot tea. A fouled runner on the inside from Ruth allowed the Referee to call a penalty which Ian swiftly put away leaving the half time score to 5 – 1. The second half started with enhanced drive from both teams and the attack of Vicky, Mark, Michele and Micheal Spencer dug in deep to produce two quick goals from Mark and Vicky bringing the score to 7-1. A snappy retaliation from Bec 3 allowed Johnny to sink another from mid range, leaving the score at 7-2.

With Melissa Macan coming on for Anna and Ingmar Evers for Micheal Spencer, the 2nd team divisions were fired with fresh legs and allowed for another boost of movement. A mid range shot from Ruth Campbell took the score to 8-2, which was soon followed by a successful shot from Grant Cadler leaving the score 8-3 and both teams hungry for more. Determination from Micheles division saw a fantastic long shot from Mark and a mid range shot from Vicky sandwiched between 2 long shots from Ian brought the score to 11-3.Bec 3’s George polished his debut performance for Bec by providing another goal against Bec -2 from the back corner bringing the 3rds to their 4th goal. A beautiful long shot from Mark came at just the right time, followed a couple of minutes later by the full time whistle.

 With the final score at 12-4 to Bec 2, both teams allowed their friendly smiles to return before sharing lifts to the pub to discuss the day’s events. All in all a nice practice ride for both teams for the start of the season before the show horse gets put to the test. Bring on Sunday the 25th.

Introductory Session

At last I can confirm that we will be having a introductory session in the new hall (for squad training next year) - but due to exams the day has had to be changed. The session will now be on:

Wednesday 15th July 7.30pm to 9.30pm

The session will be open to anyone who wants to try out for the First or Second teams next year. It will be relatively high tempo, and will also involve matches to look at potential combinations of players, and so it would not be appropriate for new players. But anyone interested in trying out for the squad should come along.

At the end I will be outlining information about selection, preseason preparation, my aims and expectations of players. The session will also be an opportunity to welcome new players , as well as players who might be joining or coming back to Bec.

It should also be a chance to meet the new squad Assistant and 2nd team coach.

This session is an open one, so if you have friends who have played korfball before and are thinking of joining Bec, they would be very welcome. However, could you let me know if you are bringing anyone along.

If you have any questions about the session do let me know. I am really looking forward to seeing everyone there!

All the best

Donald

How to get there: The new hall is in Charter School, Herne Hill/Dulwich (on old maps referred to as Dulwich School).

You can find a map here or here:

The entrance is on Red Post Hill. As you come out of North Dulwich station you go right and the entrance is on the right after less than 100m. The school shares an entrance with James Alleyn's Girls school (JAGs). However after 20 or so metres Charter is to the left (JAGS is straight on) (it is signposted).

Follow the road around the school and it will take you to the Sports Hall. There is parking in the school, and the hall is 5 minutes walk from North Dulwich station (a 15 minute journey from London Bridge and in zone 2).

Bec 2 take on Trojans 2

Bec 2 were at home to face the final round this season against Trojans 2. The sun was shining, spirits were high and the blood was pumping from a tense viewing of the first team game just played. Revenge was due. The first two encounters had seen a win and a loss for Bec - so all was to play for.

The game started with a bang - with 2 quick goals from Bec, both runners from Ruth and Lauren - a good crowd pleaser to get us ahead. The following 3 goals went against a relentless defense of Bec, with Matt Brooks' shooting just too good on the day. A further runner from Ruth brought us back to level pegging, only to lose two further goals in quick succession.

3-5, soon to be half time, Bec's attack dug in deep with some fumbled attempts resulting in a cheeky drop-off from Mark. Defense from Tam, Michele, Mikey and Spencer fended off the lack-lustre Trojans attacks. Another runner from Lauren brought the score to 5-5 at half time.

All still to play for - it would come down to team spirit and sheer determination. Half time talks from stand-in coach Liam, brought tactics and focus to the game. Grant made his debut appearance for the seconds in replacement of Tom. Quickly followed by Emma in replacement of Michele. Bec took the lead with a typical, bouncy, bang-on mid shot from Spencer, with great movement from Mickey and the girls. Another goal against us and it was level again.

A beautiful long shot from Mark came at just the right time, followed by another long shot from Lauren took Bec to 2 ahead. Bec were beginning to realised that a win was achievable and needed to stay focused. A further goal lost was answered by another great Spencer-special long shot. 2 up again and the end seemed in sight... But we had lost our sharpness in defense and we lost 3 goals in 5 minutes, seeing us 1 down and only 2 minutes to go.

A last minute mid shot from Tamara brought us back up level 10-10 and the whistle ended hopes of a win, but a point nonetheless. A good battle, and great team spirit throughout from everyone - a real show of grit and determination. League titles will be that little more difficult following the draw, but if Bec can work on the game on display today, there is a real chance.

Bec 2 v Croydon 2

Bec 2 ventured to St Mary’s on a crisp, frosty Sunday morning to take on Croydon 2, hoping to retain their place at the top of the table and up their goal difference.

Things didn’t quite begin as planned with Croydon popping in a couple of goals to take the lead 2-0. But undeterred by this minor set-back, Bec 2 held it together and soon enough pocket-rocket Heidi sank it in from midway and set the team back on track. Buckle followed this with a flash of goal scoring; a penalty and then a runner were followed swiftly by a signature Spence hop and pop shot. Croydon levelled again and Ian, Jeroen, Michelle and Mel headed across the line to do some serious attacking, moments later some Dutch sweetness helped Bec move ahead.

A weak Croydon ankle caused their defence go down to three players but undeterred by this, with some textbook passing and beautiful support from Jeroen, Mel released a powerful long shot, profusely apologised for shooting without a collect and then realised it had actually gone in. Michael then put away a long-shot a minute before half time leaving Croydon in need of some magic.

In the second half Laura made her Bec 2 debut and looked instantly comfortable in a Bec unit knowing a strong defensive performance would see victory. Despite two Croydon goals from long range in quick succession early on, a tightened defence and some grit and determination ensured Buckle got his hatrick with a sneaky runner ably assisted by Michelle. The pace in the second half dwindled a little but the team held on to the lead with goals from Heidi and Ian. A nail biting end followed with two more goals from Croydon bringing the score to 10-9. However, an alert and able defence staved off the chance of a last minute upset.

The team retains the lead at the top of LKA 1 while Ian Buckle rises to the top of the male scorers. Is there any stopping the Mighty Bec? Find out next time…

Bec 2 leave Highbury out in the cold

Sunday 25th January, Bec 2 crossed the river northbound in the direction of Leyton with the objective to reiterate their pre Christmas triumph over the Highbury second team. Undeterred by a hall more preferable to ice-skating than korfball, Coach Brady’s pre team talk left the seconds hungry for action and enthusiastic to make the journey worth the while...bring on the first whistle!

With Tom, Tamara, Lauren and Michael Spencer starting in attack, the ball was moved well with numerous shooting opportunities but no end scoring result for the first twenty minutes. Meanwhile Mike, Ian, Ruth and Michele played a tenacious role in defence, intercepting passes and fighting for free balls whilst both teams traded periods of attack and both fighting well to make scoring a difficult objective, leaving the score still 0-0 after 20 minutes. Despite a tight defence from Bec, a sneaky drop off from Highbury took the first goal of the game. This was followed 2 minutes later by a runner from Tom, forcing the Highbury defenders to switch and a spectacular pass off to Michael put away the first goal for yellow and black. As the ends switched, a quick goal from Highbury took Bec another goal down, but not for long as Buckle scored a mid range shot with only 1 minute before half time.

Another 30 minutes to go, and with the pending score standing at 2-2 the Becsters needed a shake up. An eager Mark and Mel came on for Michael and Lauren and the second half stepped up a gear for the mighty Bec with a more threatening tactics from both divisions. A long shot from Tom, followed by a mid range shot from Highbury brought the score to 3-3. The halves switched and with Mike sinking a shot from mid range, an increasingly irate Highbury defence resulted in a penalty in the following attack. With Ian as penalty taker and shooting short, Mike had the taste for goals and popped in the rebound with both Highbury boys switched onto Ian. With the score at 5-3 and the ends switched a great drop off from Mark brought the difference in scores even further. The defence were still holding out Highbury well and the following attack saw a well timed feed from Mark provide a nice runner from Mel and a well deserved punishment of the tight Highbury with an easily drained shot. With the score at 7-3 Highbury’s persistence paid off with a mid range shot. But undeterred the Becsters marched on, with Highbury giving away yet another penalty which Ian put away comfortably. With the final score being 8-4 to the mighty Bec, the yellow and black left Leyton victorious despite disappointment at not achieving their full potential of play. But regardless, another magnet to add to the fridge...

Mitcham left Down Under

After watching Trojans 2 beat Nomads 2 and thus throwing the league wide open Bec 2 knew an unprecedented victory against old foes Mitcham would take them top of the table. Mark Fenton’s rousing pre-match team talk based on nine previous encounters of pain and sorrow, in a month that the world has declared that ‘change is coming’, saw an up-beat and combative Bec take the floor.

An early goal from Mitcham seemed to indicate to the crowd that this game would once again follow the history books; however the green army had not accounted for Bec’s new squad development programme that has seen Michael Spencer burst into the Bec 2 starting line-up like Skippy on speed. With ‘Australia’ gracing the big screens, our very own Australian brought a spot of Hollywood glamour to South Croydon, banging in four goals before the half time whistle. This Oscar winning performance coupled with Michelle Jhugroo’s signature close range ‘swish’ saw Bec 2 start the second-half with a 5-4 lead.

The second half saw Mitcham with the words of Dave Synott still ringing in their ears quickly level things up, but today was a day that wouldn’t see Bec 2 Buckle (no pun intended!). When Melissa Macan once again surged towards the post and was chopped down mid shot Ian Buckle coolly stepped up and restored Bec’s lead from the penalty spot.

Despite resolute defending and the dominance of Mark Fenton and man-of-the-match Mike Walsh under the posts, Mitcham once again levelled as their supporters cranked up the volume. This time it was Tamara Burnell that responded with clever play under the post that added a korf to her three assists. With Michael Spencer quickly adding Bec’s eighth with a well-worked runner the team visually settled with a two goal lead and would never let Mitcham back in the game. With Lauren, Tamara, Melissa and Michelle gaining the upper hand against the Mitcham girls it was time for the boys to step up and be counted. Ian Buckle and Mark Fenton duly complied to open up a 10-7 lead.

The stage was then set for the imperious Mike Walsh to end the game with the bang that it deserved. After collecting with such perfection and making interceptions left, right and centre, Walsh left his post vigil to sink two mid range shots and thus seal Bec’s 12-10 victory. Thus, as we move into the business end of the season Bec 2 have eked out a slender lead at the top of LDK 1 … change is indeed coming!!

Bec 2 take a while to get into their stride

04/01/09

Bec 2 were looking forward to what could only be called a daunting prospect after 2 weeks of festive fun and no training led them into the first of two games in the same day against Trojans 2 (the second a re-arranged game). Player/Coach Brady had encouraged the team to maintain fitness over the holiday period, and this had been achieved with varying amounts of success!

As usual, Bec started strongly, but with a lack of ability to score. Mark (C), Ian, Lauren and Jackie started in attack, with Tom, Mike, Michele and Tamara in defence. The teams were relatively well matched, although Bec was showing dominance all over the pitch as Trojans called a time out within the first ten minutes. Caretaker coach Forrester encouraged the team to keep playing as they were, with continued rotation and domination of the post, taking the right shots, and continuing to be strong in defence.

Bec 2 did as asked, and with all the creativity and effort they possessed created chances and defended shots without putting many balls in the basket. An inspired performance by Michele who has recently stepped up to this level after many years away from the korf, led the team from the front, not only in goals, but in effort and determination. Excellent post work by the boys was obvious again in both attack and defence and the girls worked hard to create chances and not let in goals. Mel replaced Lauren in the second half and in a brief but welcome return to the second team, Ingmar replaced Ian and helped the attack by scoring a quick couple of goals, but it was too late for the tide to turn.

Sadly, Trojans were quick to capitalise upon any small mistakes made by the defence which gave them the edge as Bec continued to play hard without putting the numbers on the scoreboard. Final score 14-9 to Trojans.

Michele 3, Ingmar 2, Mike 1, Mark 1, Jackie 1, Tamara 1

Trojans 2 – Round 2… ding ding

After a much needed refreshment break, time to reflect on the previous game and with adrenalin pumping from the exciting spectacle of the First team’s game, the seconds were up for another round against the Trojan’s second team.

With the feeling of lessons to be learnt from the first game only hours before and a general sense of composure and strength, they went into the game determined. A change of team introducing Jana and Davesh into the mix, against a changed Trojans team, seeing a return of the tricky Nora, created a different dynamic. Heading into the first half saw Bec swiftly go 2 down, with 2 nifty Nora goals against an otherwise strong and unrelenting defence. But Bec quickly answered with infallible attacks with good movement from Dav, Tamara and Jackie, and constant battling from Tom. Some beautiful long shots came from Mark and Dav. Trojans came back with a few goals, but didn’t get close for the rest of the game. Great defence all round, including some great blocks and interceptions from Mel, Mark, Lauren and Ian, enabled the gap to be opened up in the early second half to 10-6 - with Ian seeing in many penalties, Jana with a cracking runner (and cheery celebration), Dav continuing to put them away and Mikey with a powerful long shot.

The fighting attitude shone through from this second team, who dominated the came in many respects – to show they had not only learnt, but had grown against this usually threatening team. Bec can be happy with the 11-9 result – a well deserved 2 points for the table.

Victory against Highbury

14/12/08

Bec 2 have won 5 from 6 this season but still show to emulate the match form that the individual players could produce. A 2nd fixture against Highbury two who pushed Bec to within 2 goals in the first match.

With Mike Walsh being woken up 20 minutes before the game Liam stepped up for his 2nd team debut. The game wasn’t one for tv by a long stretch with only 3 goals in the first half from Ruth, Tom and Jackie. It appeared that although the rest of the team had made it to the game on time, we were still all mostly asleep. The match was never really in contention which probably caused Bec to never reach second gear, but goals from Ian and a Tom double provided some much needed entertainment for the crowd.

Kitman came on in the second half for a much hoped come back to the squad and scored within 5 minutes. The final score finished 9-2. Another victory for Bec 2, but the pursuit of glamorous free scoring korfball has yet to be achieved.

On a good note, Mitcham 2 lost leaving Bec 2 in a three way tie for top spot.

Bec 2 will not Buckle

16/11/08

Following two convincing wins in the Cup, Bec 2 were feeling confident ahead of the game against Nomads 2, who were themselves in high spirits following their defeat of Trojans 2. A mouth-watering contest was therefore likely, and St. Mary's was in for a treat.

The start was electric, with both teams distributing the ball well, shooting from distance and moving around the perimeter. Tom got Bec to a great start with a shot from behind the basket as per the pre-game prediction, while Nomads equalised with a quick put-back off a rebound. It looked like it was going to be a tough day for the Bec boys, who for once did not hold a decisive height advantage. Enter the mighty ladies, led by skipper Emma O'Connor, who stamped her authority on the game while she still had a leg to do it with, which meant very early on. A rainbow shot from the corner was followed by a cheeky drive to the basket that forced her opponent into a foul, Buckle tucked away the penalty and the yellows took that all-important 2-goal cushion. Brady and Nomads traded another couple and Bec looked solid.

But with traffic at a standstill around Twickenham, Nomads would just not go away, and their boys scored 4 unanswered goals (the first two from near the halfway line) to shift momentum strongly in their favour. Bec needed a goal like Streatham needs a curfew, and it duly arrived in the form of another stunner from OC Skipper.

One down at half-time and Bec were hanging tough. Whatever Ruth Campbell drank at half-time needs to be rebranded Clutchozade (and checked for nandrolone) and, after another goal from Nomads, her and Emma brought the game back level with mid-range swooshes. Nomads took the advantage again, but coach Brady had promised he would not let the Chevrons go down, and his drive brought the teams once again level. Unable to pull free, Nomads switched their focus in attack to their girls and once again took the lead. At the other end, the ball circulated beautifully between Mark, Emma, Ruth and Ian to force another penalty. Buckle stepped up, missed, gathered his own rebound and gained another chance from the spot. The second time around his nerves did not buckle and a manly fist-pump accompanied his composed jog back to the defensive half.

8-8, 10 minutes to go, and not a shiver-free spine in the house. Before much could be done to ease the nerves of the partisan home gathering (crowd would be too strong a denomination), Nomads surged ahead with two quick goals and a deja-vu feeling stretching back to the Mitcham game was hovering. Nothing like a hole to bring out the kryptonite-adverse in all of us and from the phone booth came the mesmerising run of Ruth Campbell, who faked left, ran right and finished with a flourish past a defender reduced to a standstill. Move of the day and not a moment too soon, and to emphasise the point she drained a long bomb a minute later to bring the game back level. With tension at its peak, Michelle was handed a shock debut, brought on alongside Johnny for the last 7 minutes of regulation. Her first touch was well in range and she showed no hesitation in tucking away a screamer of a shot to put Bec forward for the first time in the half and heap credit on to the deserving shoulders of coach Brady. Nomads were not done themselves and equalised. What would it take and who from?

A last twist in an absorbing contest took place under the Nomads post with 2 minutes left to go as inspirational Emma OC fell awkwardly and could not continue, and Bec were reduced to 7 men and a lot of cursing. No matter, as a controversial penalty brought the Buckle back to the line. Nerves of steel willed the ball in, and Bec just needed to hang on one more minute. Fate appeared to be giggling like a schoolgirl as Nomads were awarded a dodgy penalty of their own with 30 seconds left, but the shot was missed and the game was over. Heartburn and heartfelt joy for the mighty Bec and heartbreak for the brave Nomads.

Not much to say except YEEHAA.

Bec 2 house train the wildcats.

9/11/08

Bec 2’s performance in previous cup years has never emulated the league performance with early exits the norm. A strong Bec 2 came to St Mary’s to re-write the history books and a tough match against Wildcats was the side’s opener. After a cautious 10 minutes Jackie, Ingmar, Emma and Mark struggled to get into rhythm but a great pass from Jackie gave Mark an open shot at the back of the court for the first goal. Jana, Tom, Mike and Heidi were patient and strong in defence to give the other division plenty of chances to get the 2nd goal which came courtesy of a well worked Jackie runner. Tom’s division looked very strong and comfortable in attack with the collection power of Jana, Mike and Tom ensuring prolonged attacks resulting in a good runner from Jana before half time. Jana scored straight after the break with a well worked long shot. Mel replaced Emma and made immediate impact with a long shot. Wildcats were still yet to score due to massive pressure from the Bec defence. However, a disputed penalty and a long shot from Wildcats brought the score to 5-2. Bec were now in the ascendancy and getting into their stride with goals from Heidi and an Ingmar double. Jana completed the scoring to finish the game at 9-2. A well controlled game in the end, with good passages of play from both divisions. Bec created lots more chances than the score suggested but was a good result to progress to the next round.

Bec beat brave Horfield

9/11/08

Bec 2 15 – 0 Horfield Despite the win against Wildcats, the job was only half complete with a fired up Horfield blocking the passage to the second round of the cup. Wary of the threat that Horfield could pose if Bec was complacent and switched off, Stu and Tom challenged us all to stay 100% focussed with full concentration for the entire game.

The team lined up as before, with first attack going to big man Mike, teamed up with Tom, Jana and Heidi. The game started just as planned with some patient korfball resulting in a well worked runner for Heidi to start the scoring before Horfield had even touched the ball. The defence did a great job of winning the ball back to allow the hard-working, fluid attack to set Jana up for her goal – again a runner. Two goals from two attacks and the team was in full swing. It was then the turn of Ingmar, Mark, Emma and Jackie to join in the fun. It wasn’t long before an Ingmar penalty and a runner from Jackie were just reward for some fast paced attack from the division, with Mark working hard under the post and Em performing a superb supporting role. Still no Horfield goals.

Horfield weren’t going to let us win without a fight though and managed to slow down the rate of scoring with a few minutes passing after the changeover without a single goal. Tom scored two in a row, however, to ensure a comfortable cushion was established, still without a Horfield goal.

Emma’s division seemingly decided “anything you can do we can do better” and a runner by Emma and a trademark long-shot from Ingmar resulted in a half-time score of 8-0.

The second half was much the same as the first but with Stu and Mel joining in the fun in place of Mark and Jana, who had performed fine playmaker roles at opposite ends. A controlled but fast paced spell from Bec ended with a mid-range goal from Pikey Mikey after some superb team work. Heidi followed this up with her second runner of the game – still no goal for Horfield.

Whilst the goals were flowing, the defence was constantly hassling and frustrating the Horfield attack with very few attacks containing more than one Horfield shot. Bec were tight on the passing lines and made the pressure count with many interceptions.

The steady flow of goals continued with Stu claiming a runner before Ingmar achieved his hat trick with a short range goal.

The clock was ticking down with the end of the match approaching but before the full-time whistle could sound, Pikey Mikey sunk his second mid-range shot of the game , Tom had completed his hat-trick and Ingmar had bagged his fourth.

Overall, although playing against less experienced opposition, the team can be proud with the way they responded to everything that Tom and Stu had asked. The pace of the game was at a high level and the defence was spot on – bring on Nomads next week. Special mention must go to Horfield who played with passion and never let their heads down.

Goals: Ingmar – 4 Tom – 3 Mike – 2 Heidi – 2 Emma – 1 Jackie – 1 Jana -1 Stu – 1

Bec 2 narrowly beaten by Mitcham

26/10/08

After watching an inspiring performance by Bec 1 against Mitcham 1, the second team were raring to go at the start of their game. Caretaker coach Donald Forrester had prepared the team tactically and mentally and the first half was an exciting game to watch. The division of Ingmar, Jens, Heidi and Ruth started in attack with Mark, Ian, Jackie and Emma OC in defence. Although neither team was scoring prolifically, the goals were slowly traded and when Mitcham eeked out a slight lead, Bec fought back and equalised just before half time to go into the break level at 7-7. The second half held the attention of spectators as both sides battled to get ahead, with energy and commitment to the game clear from all 16 players on the pitch, but with few goals scored. Bec were struggling to score in attack whilst simultaneously holding out Mitcham fantastically in defence – effectively reaching a stalemate. A late substitution brought Simon into the attack for Ian (who had impressively converted a penalty he won after being on the floor for a few minutes) but time ran out for Bec and the final score gave Mitcham the lead by one goal (10-9). Congratulations to Heidi and Jens for their first full games in the English National League for Bec KC – a great performance from both of them!

 Scorers: Heidi 4, Ian 3 (1 pen), Ingmar 1, Jens 1 (pen).

After weeks of training hard the season finally got underway with a hard fought victory over our North London rivals. In first attack was coach Tom Brady, Ingmar Evers, Ruth Campbell and Tamara Burnell (welcome back to the flock Tam!). First attack lined up with Jackie Hoare, Mark Fenton, Ian Buckle and Emma O'Connor as newly appointed captain this season. Bec 2 started strongly and showed good movement but it was Highbury 2 who took the early advantage with some quick shooting that saw Bec 2 trail by 3 goals mid way through the first half. Highbury 2 held onto their lead into half time (4-5) but after a rousing team talk the tide turned in the second half. Mel Macan and Jonny Lazar both came on at half time and Bec 2 kept up the pressure and started scoring, with goals coming from all corners of the court. A well deserved victory and a good start to the season.

Scorers Emma O'Connor (2), Ian Buckle (2), Jackie Hoare (2), Mark Fenton (1), Ingmar Evers (3), Tom Brady (2)

Tom Brady to Remain as Head Coach

Bec are pleased to welcome back Tom Brady as Head Coach after his first successful season coaching the first and second teams last year – Bec 1 achieved a credible 5th place in the National Premier league and will be looking to better it this season.

Bec 2 Confidence Boost -Tom Brady Returns to steady the ship

Tom B started things well with a fine long shot but with a few errors in attack, Croydon were able to come level. Both Bec divisions struggled to combine the individual player qualities into a well oiled team, but goals from Tom, Anne and Jackie saw Bec go into half time 7-3. Lauren Jones was brought on at half time for her first 2nd appearance since injury.

The 2nd half was much of the same story. With the win always on the cards, the players found it hard to generate intensity and several passing errors led to frustrating game. Not all bad news though as Tom continue to score from long distance along with other goals from Tonya, Mark, Emma and Ian. All in all not a great display of korfball but a victory none the less. The team have lots of things to work on to try and finish the season on a high