Chairman’s Chat

Cannock Crunch

After last Sunday’s excellent 6-2 away win over Kingston upon Hull it is ‘Cannock Crunchtime’ for the Men’s 1sts this weekend (May 3-5) when they play their last three matches in the EHL Qualifying Tournament. After two rounds of matches Cardiff & UWIC lead the table on six points with Magpies in second place on four points followed by University of Durham (3), Harborne (3), Fareham (1) and Hull (0).

The squad thoroughly deserved their win last Sunday after going behind early in the game. After Andy Hipwell equalised on his way to another splendid hat trick the team raised their game even higher in the second half to take control with some top class flowing hockey. Wins against Durham on Saturday (5.00pm) and Harborne (Sunday 2.00pm) would put the squad in a strong position for a coveted top two place before their last game against Cardiff at 11.00am on Monday. Best of luck to manager Robert Stimpson, coach Les Howlett and the rest of the squad for these three vital games.

I hope as many members as possible will be able to attend the End of Season Bash at the club on Saturday 17 May (7.30pm). The event is open to all ages and entry is by ticket only – £10 (U13s £5) including food – obtainable from Mary Wright 0774 779 5481, Mike Denham 01603 506925 or at the bar over the Magpies’ May Bank Holiday Tournament. Dancing will be to ginger tom & the GO cats.

And talking of the May Tournament I remind you as follows of the programme.

Saturday 3 May – Open Mixed Challenge

Sunday 4 May – Veterans

Monday 5 May – Ladies’ and Men’s Club XIs

Last weekend’s Yazoo East Mini Finals were a great success at the club and I join East President Bill Felton in thanking all the club members who worked so hard throughout the two days. Writing on behalf of East Hockey Bill concluded his communication to me by saying “I would like you to pass on our sincere thanks to your committee and all involved at the weekend and I am sure it will not be too long before the East are asking to come back to Magpies because not only did we enjoy coming so did the many teams involved”.

Congratulations to our teams which did so well in the Dereham minis last Sunday and especially the U11 Girls and the U11 Boys who won their events. Commiserations to the U15 Girls who bowed out of the national plate in the semis at Leicester. However, the team can be proud of their fine run in the competition.

The Summer Mixed Hockey will once again be played on Monday nights (7.30pm) commencing on 12 May and continuing on 2 & 16 & 30 June and concluding on 14 July. Please bring a white and coloured shirt and £3 match fee!

More dates for your diary please!

With kind regards and best wishes to all members, supporters and friends of the Club.